The all-new GMC Sierra may not be a groundbreaking new design, but it is an improvement on the beloved pickup truck.
Engineers made changes in the handling — the steering is quicker and more accurate — and the new fuel-saving engine is virtually silent. In addition to the new exterior look, there are three all-new EcoTec3 engines to choose from, an updated cabin with available next-generation IntelliLink connectivity and many other features especially designed for truck owners.
The 2014 Sierra has new aerodynamic measures that benefit fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise. Updated mirrors that reduce wind turbulence, triple-sealed inlaid doors, as well as roof and tailgate design features all help air to flow smoothly and quietly over the Sierra body.
Updates to the pickup truck’s body and chassis are designed to improve ride and handling, comfort and capability. The fully boxed frame uses high-strength steel and hydroforming to give it more strength and rigidity with less weight. New cab structures incorporate high-strength steel in the A pillars, B-pillars, roof rails and rocker panels, while ultra-high-strength steel segments of the rocker panels provide added protection for shallow offset crashes. Sierra’s aluminum hood saves about 17 pounds, while to the rear a roll-formed box is stronger, lighter and more durable than a traditional stamped steel box. Sierra uses aluminum for some suspension components for additional rigidity and weight saving, and new lightweight wheels are paired with low-rolling-resistance tires.
Sierra’s engine selection has been updated for 2014 with increased power, torque and fuel efficiency. New 4.3-liter 285 hp V-6, 5.3-liter 355 hp V-8 and 6.2-liter 420 hp V-8 powertrains are offered, all from a shared EcoTec3 engine family. Each engine has standard direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management, that seamlessly switches to four cylinders during light-load driving
All three engines use lightweight aluminum blocks and heads and are mated with durable six-speed automatic transmissions. A “cruise grade braking” feature down-shifts the transmission on downgrades to reduce brake wear. All V-8 models use new, larger 9.5- and 9.76-inch rear axles with the strength to accommodate the engines’ higher output.
On the inside, Sierra’s all-new cabin has premium materials, attention to detail and purposeful technology. New soft-touch materials and available aluminum trim line an interior focused on usable and productive space.
Sierra has an upright instrument panel designed for visibility and accessibility. Knobs and buttons are large, legible and within reach. All knobs are coated using a rubber over-mold technology, so they’re easy to grip even through gloves.
A new instrument cluster on all models features six gauges with an available centrally located, 4.2-inch color Driver Information Center with vehicle status information, a trip computer and other information, such as radio and navigation.
The MSRP on the 2014 GMC Sierra ranges from: $32,805 to $52,500.
Grant Miller is the publisher of Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or by addressing email to Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com
