The Best Truck Tailgates of 2020 (and How GM’s Revolutionary MulitPro Tailgate Came to Be)

 

For more than a century, all tailgates on pickup trucks served the same basic function, and they also looked quite similar. In short, a tailgate on any model was pretty much just a hinged door that opened and closed downward at the end of a truck bed. However, in 2006, Honda released the Ridgeline pickup truck, which offered a double-hinged tailgate that opened sideways as well as downward. 

Since then, the purpose of a tailgate has become much more than providing practical access to the truck bed. Many manufacturers have been pouring lots of time and money into tailgate development as they look to get a leg up in the uber-competitive pickup segment. The result? Motorization, power locking, barn-door splits, convertible work surfaces, drop steps, and many more features can be found on America’s best selling trucks. 

Though most of these trucks are boasting more impressive tailgates than in the past, not all tailgates are created equally. Below, we’ve compared the gates of five trucks so that you can see what each model offers, and we’ve also recounted a brief history of the groundbreaking MultiPro System developed by General Motors.

 

A TALE OF FIVE TAILGATES 

Let’s start with five major pickup trucks and the features offered by their tailgates: 

 

The GMC Sierra

The MultiPro System is by far the most impressive and functional tailgate on the market, and it’s exclusive to the GMC Sierra, coming standard on all SLT, AT4, and Denali models. What makes the MultiPro stand out? Well, a lot of things. It provides pickup owners with six different functions, each of which solves a practical problem faced by those who work from their truck. Also, the tailgate is lightweight, strong, and durable, and each component is made with quality materials. Oh yeah, and the engineers at GM managed to make this wonder of a tailgate cost-effective. 

In the most basic sense, the MultiPro System is two different tailgates in one. The main gate is hinged and functions as a conventional tailgate. Within the panel of the primary gate is a smaller gate. Operating these two gates in various ways is how you get the six functions of the MultiPro. 

It allows for easier access to items in the front of the bed by bringing you several inches closer to the bed floor. It turns into a seat and an entry step. It converts into a standing work surface and separates storage into two tiers. And there’s even a weatherproof Kicker audio system built into the tailgate that pushes 50 watts RMS per channel; complete with a USB port and auxiliary input, this sound system sounds remarkably powerful and crisp. Yes, the MultiPro is all it’s cracked up to be. 

 

The Ford F-150 

Ford was reasonably quick to respond to the Ridgeline’s disruption of the pickup market. In 2009, a drop-down step and folding grab-handle system were added to the F-150 and Super Duty models, which was considered quite innovative at the time. However, no other notable improvements were made to the tailgate until now. For the 2021 model year, Ford has introduced a re-tooled work-surface tailgate that is sure to please both those who work on construction sites and those who drive their truck recreationally. 

Perhaps the best function of the newest Ford F-150 tailgate is its pairing with the ProPower onboard generator, which makes for a truly effective charging station and workspace. Also, the tailgate is equipped with clamp pockets; this allows workers to clamp a variety of objects to the tailgate without it damaging the outer shell of the gate. Moreover, there are plenty of depressions to hold pencils, cups, and other items, as well as new side-mounted cleats that function both as tie-down locations and bottle openers. 

One downside with the new F-150 tailgate—other than the absence of several of the functions offered by the MultiPro tailgate—is that the gate only swings down the traditional way. This makes it more difficult to access items deep in the truck bed.  

 

The Ram 1500

In the 2019 model year, Ram released its multifunction tailgate on the 1500 pickup models. In one respect, the tailgate is a conventional drop-down gate that can be operated with a remote. But it also contains a 60-40 split that enables the gate to open sideways. This allows for easier access to the truck bed for loading and unloading cargo. And unlike some of its competitors, the Ram 1500 tailgate can be opened and closed when using a trailer. 

The Rambox is another notable feature of the 1500 truck bed. This storage unit is built into the bed, it’s lockable, and it has weatherstripping inside to keep water out. It also comes with a drain plug, which makes it perfect for storing ice, drinks, food, and many other things. 

Though the multifunctional tailgate is better than previous Ram tailgates, it lacks adequate recessed areas and slots, which significantly limits the use of the truck bed as a workspace. 

 

The Honda Ridgeline

The newest Honda Ridgeline tailgate is very similar to the 2006 version that shook up the pickup truck industry. It still has dual hinges that allow for the gate to open and close the traditional way or to the side. This makes it easier to load and unload cargo in the trunk bed, along with providing quick access to the trunk/cooler under the bed. As of 2020, the Ridgeline tailgate comes with remote locking. 

You can also opt for speakers in the truck bed that play whatever you have running through the truck’s main audio system. It’s worth noting, however, that these speakers leave much to be desired and that the sound quality is nowhere close to that offered by the truck bed audio system of the GMC Sierra. 

 

The Chevrolet Silverado

Some critics claim that there are not enough differences between the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra to justify the price gap. The tailgates on the two pickup models are just one of many examples of why that’s not true, as the MultiPro tailgate is exclusive to the Sierra and not available on any Silverado models. 

Though it’s nothing compared to the revolutionary MultiPro system, the Silverado does offer some modernity with its tailgate. A power-operated gate is standard on the High Country trim and optional on the LTZ. By using the key fob, a button in the cab, or a button on the tailgate, you can easily open and close the gate. The sprawling “CHEVROLET” stamp across the tailgate adds a nice touch as well. 

 

THE STORY BEHIND GM’S MULTIPRO TAILGATE 

There’s no question that GM has a leg up in the tailgate race right now, and it’s hard to imagine that a more innovative tailgate than the MultiPro System will be produced in the near future. And there also happens to be an interesting story about how the tailgate was created:

 

A Covert Operation

The MultiPro tailgate was kept a secret—even from the majority of GM employees—until its reveal in March 2018. Why? Because a few GM engineers recognized early on that they were onto something revolutionary. 

This is how Derek Patterson, the lead integration engineer on the project, described it: "We had a 3D printed version of the tailgate that we kept covered with a lock on the door. We'd put it on a gurney and wheel it in the conference room to work on it, then wheel it back to the storage room. We did this all in secret. I kept a list of those who knew about it. No one ever showed anything over Skype."

 

How It Started 

One day in 2009, technician Jim Gobart was asked by his manager to solve a problem. The manager complained about how cargo always seemed to slide to the front of his truck bed, making it hard to reach. Within a few days, Gobart presented a few ideas to his boss. 

He thought about folding the two-foot-tall tailgate in half and then folding the second part down, which would bring a person several inches closer to the front of the truck bed. "Then I thought, if I put another flap on the inside of that and it folds out horizontal, you now have a stair step. I thought that would be very nice for someone who works out of the back of that truck."

Gobart then figured out ways to add storage and seating to the tailgate. After that, he got the go-ahead to develop a mock version. This took about a month and consisted of cutting up two gates and folding them into one. 

The GM leaders loved this first iteration of the MultiPro System, but there were a few hurdles that kept it out of further development and production for about ten years:

1. GM was entering bankruptcy at the peak of the Great Recession, which meant that investing in such an elaborate tailgate design wasn’t practical.
2. The GMC Sierra was soon reaching the end of its product cycle, so it didn’t make sense to introduce such a revolutionary tailgate for the model at the time. 
3. There was still a need for a ton of product testing and refinement.

 

The Innovation Hub

By 2014, GM was in a position to revisit the MultiPro tailgate idea. Though he loved the accessibility and versatility of Gobart’s initial design, Patterson was concerned about the hatches. So, he presented the idea to the newly-formed GM Innovation Hub—a group of GM employees that exists to spark inspiration and creative ideas from various departments. 

This resulted in ideas for a variety of improvements, including ergonomic changes that would help prevent people from bumping their arms when using the tailgate. 

 

The Customer Clinic 

After the Innovation Hub did their part, Patterson asked Gobart to build another MultiPro prototype so they could use it in an upcoming customer clinic. The new-and-improved tailgate was installed on a 2014 Sierra and sent off to the clinic.

At these clinics, the customers don’t know what manufacturers are present. All they see is a tailgate, as the rest of the pickup truck is covered by a curtain. Overall, the tailgate got rave reviews, and people wanted it for their truck. 

Three big things were learned from the clinic. First of all, most customers said the entry step was the most important component. A close second was the ability to get closer to the front of the truck bed for easy access to cargo. And the two-tier storage was a big hit as well.

 

The Testing

From there, it was time for rigorous testing so that GM could develop the tailgate that is now included on the GMC Sierra. The complexity of the tailgate meant that lots of mule versions (23, to be exact) and computer analyses had to be done at GM’s proving grounds and labs. Over the course of almost four years, hundreds of tests—the most ever for any GM piece of equipment—were performed to ensure the tailgate would remain lightweight, strong, and durable. In 2018, it was approved for production.

 

Conclusion 

These days, the tailgate can be a legitimate selling point for a pickup truck. Many of the most successful pickup manufacturers are investing heavily in making their tailgates more innovative and practical for customers. So far, GM’s MultiPro System is in a league of its own, and the overwhelming response from customers suggests that all those years developing and testing the tailgate were well spent. If you want to see it for yourself, be sure to schedule a test drive in one of our new Sierra 1500s at Liberty Buick GMC!

What Your Truck Says About You

 

Whether we notice it or not, our cars say a lot about us. What you drive may resemble your personality, such that if you are environmentally-conscious you might drive a smaller (maybe even electric) vehicle. Or perhaps you enjoy life outdoors and tossing the family in the truck or SUV for a quick weekend camping trip. We love our cars because they do more than just get us there, they become a part of our lives and we rely on them—we trust them. So what does your truck say about you?

You don’t fully understand until you buy your first truck, but there are a TON of options to choose from, whether it’s size, color, shape, power, technology capabilities, and much more. Why wouldn’t you find a truck that matches your lifestyle, your personality? With the popularity of trucks these days, finding one that fits you shouldn’t be a problem.

The thing about pickup truck drivers is there are a few truisms, some good some not so good, that they understand. Here are three important ones:

1. You will be asked by your non-truck driving friends to help move bulky items. This is a fact and there is nothing to stop it from happening. Truck drivers understand—they may not like it, but they deal—and simply wait for the call. 
2. Whereas you used to pay more at the pump with your truck, today’s hybrid trucks provide gas mileage that makes luxury sedans a bit jealous. 
3. The modern truck is just as luxurious and spacious and updated with all the technological and safety fixins’ as any other vehicle type on the road. So why wouldn’t you own a truck?

 

Performance, Comfort, and What Your Truck Says About You

Regardless of the look, the most impressive aspect of your truck should be quality. Since 1902, GMC has been making just that, quality trucks, with the variations of the Sierra. Through the years, the venerated Sierra truck has won countless awards and has climbed the scales of popularity and sales, reaching its way to the top.

 

Big on Performance and Power

If power and performance are your big things, you won’t find a better truck than the Sierra. For example, on the lowest end, the Sierra comes with a 4.3-liter, V-6 engine that can go from 0 mph to 60 mph in just under 8 seconds. But if the work you do requires a bit more power, check out the 5.3-liter, V-8 engine that has 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This bigger engine can tow up to 11,100 pounds! And if that is still not enough power for you there's another: a 6.2-liter, V-8 engine with a 12,500-pound towing capacity plus 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Now that is a lot of power.

 

Quality and Comfort

The GMC Sierra’s power and performance are impressive, but wait until you experience the comfort and quality of the interior. The cabin of the GMC Sierra is big. There is plenty of room to stretch and move around. The seats themselves are plush and easy to nestle into. The driver’s seat allows you to position yourself perfectly thanks to the power-adjustable pedals and steering wheel that tilts and telescopes. There are plenty of soft-touch materials covering the inside, and chrome accents border sections of the dash's control panel and steering wheel to make the cabin pop. Ambient lighting sets a comforting, cool mood. Drivers also get up to five USB ports with both 12- and 110-volt compatibility points so that you are able to charge just about anything from your phone to a laptop. There is more than enough storage room in the middle section of the front seat, and even more, can be found in the door panels and below the seats. To isolate the interior from the exterior, triple door seals are used to block outside noise from polluting the quiet and smooth ride within.

 

A Sweet Ride

Regardless of the type of truck driver you are, a smooth, even ride is surely on your list of necessities, and the Sierra—you guessed it—has that too. All Sierra trucks operate with a front strut and rear leaf-spring suspension. This provides extra cushion and makes the impact of bumps and potholes virtually nonexistent. If you are worried about drive quality when hauling extra big loads, you can opt for the Magnetic Ride Control, which helps reduce intense up-and-down motions. But that’s not all, the steering and control to the Sierra, no matter what you are hauling or pulling, are responsive and fluid naturally and can do wonders to keep you in constant control.

 

So Which Sierra is the Best Fit For You?

This is where truck shopping gets really fun. You know what you want in a truck, and Sierra has it all, but now the big question: which Sierra? The 1500, 2500, or 3500?

 

Sierra 1500

The baseline 1500 is available in a 5.3- or 6.2-liter EcoTech3 V-8 engine. In certain trim levels, the 1500 comes with the Z71 off-road suspension system. And, GMC LED daytime running lights, Stabilitrak, a corner step rear bumper, hydraulic body mounts, and triple door seals come standard with all Sierra 1500 trim levels. As far as towing, the 1500 can handle up to 9,400 pounds with ease. This truck is good for hauling and pulling and truly excels in drive quality. This is the family-man’s truck, and it likes to get stuff done.

 

Sierra 2500

Stepping it up a notch, the 2500 offers everything the 1500 does and more. It comes with a 5.3-liter, V-8, or a 6.6-liter, V-8 Duramax diesel engine. The 2500 also has an Allison Series 1000 transmission, an available spray-on bed liner, and digital steering assist. And, it has a whopping 14,500 pounds towing capacity—making it the perfect work truck. If you need something that can handle those heavier loads and pull some bigger equipment, something that says “hey, this guy knows what he’s doing,” the Sierra 2500 is for you and your crew.

 

Sierra 3500

At the top level, the 3500 exceeds expectations. This truck was built especially for trailering and hauling and can handle as much as 23,200 pounds (using fifth-wheel trailering). The 3500 comes with Digital Steering Assist to help keep control of those heavy payloads, and there is what’s called Hill Start Assist, which momentarily holds the breaks while you switch your foot from the brake pad to the gas. This is especially useful on inclines or unstable surface areas. The 3500 offers everything the other two models do, plus a few extras like an EZ-Lift and Lower tailgate, chrome trailering mirrors, an automatic locking rear differential, and comes in a 6.2-liter engine or a 6.6-liter, V-8 Duramax diesel. If you want your truck to show off your hauling capabilities, this is the one.

But the best part of choosing a GMC Sierra is that you can basically build your own. There are numerous Sierra packages to choose from and even more trim level features to sift through and add on. So if there are aspects you like of all three models of the Sierra, you can actually piece together a version that works perfectly for what you need. This is helpful because you don’t end up getting your crew trucks that have unneeded features or capabilities. This way, your trucks are customized to your company’s needs.

 

Needs and wants for a truck: keep it practical and keep it classy

Your most important job, as a purchaser, is finding a truck that will last and one that fits your personality. Luckily, most trucks these days can be lifted or lowered, made loud or quiet, contain a strong presence, or blend into its surroundings just by making a few tweaks here and there. This means your primary goal is actually to make sure you have something that won’t break the bank due to breakdowns and costly repairs.

When shopping for your truck, narrow down what you are looking for: make and model, gas mileage, longevity, etc., and begin researching those aspects. Chances are you will end up at Liberty Buick GMC, which is perfect because our trained technicians and sales specialists can guide you right into that perfect truck.

Don’t waste your time anywhere else, come see us at Liberty Buick GMC today to find a truck that perfectly resembles you.

Happy Father's Day!

The GMC Sierra & GMC Canyon: Two of 2020’s Most Reliable Trucks

U.S. News and World Report recently included two of GMC’s most lauded trucks, the Serra and the Canyon, to its “Most Reliable Trucks of 2020” list. This accolade comes at no surprise to truck enthusiasts across the country, as the 2020 make of both models comes with impressive features and power (like class-leading hauling and towing capabilities). But what’s even more impressive, is you can have your new GMC Sierra or Canyon delivered to your driveway. It’s simple: shop, click, drive—and deliver.

Both the Sierra and Canyon have been top-sellers for the GMC for years, and this year they both pack even more of a punch. With new features, more power, and luxurious design and comfort, it’s easy to see why both of these trucks are being talked about so much already this year.

2020 Canyon
So what exactly has caused the all-new Canyon to be added to such a prestigious list? This year’s truck comes with three powertrain options, a luxurious (with high-quality materials) interior, and a 7-inch touch screen that connects to your smartphone, and it comes standard.

It can tow up to 7,700 pounds, and it gets 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway. Plus, it has an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot, providing you with connectivity at all times—without using your own service data.

2020 Sierra
There are quite a few reasons the new Sierra made U.S. News and National Report’s recent best of the best list. Here are a few “best-in-class” features to the 2020 GMC Sierra:

• A three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty, and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
• Incredible horsepower and torque from Sierra’s V-8 engine.
• Impressive horsepower from the Sierra’s diesel engine.
• A luxurious interior with tons of head and legroom.
• Speaking of roominess, the 2020 Sierra also has more cargo bed space than its competitors.
• There’s also the six-function Multipro Tailgate that opens and configures to help you get work done. This multi-function gate works by touchpad rather than a mechanical handle. Once engaged, the tailgate operates in six different ways to provide easy access to loaded materials, a work-station (with an outlet for charging!), stairs for easy climbing, and more. There has never been a tailgate this functional, which is just one more example of the complexity in thought that went into the new Sierra.

Shop. Click. Drive.
At Liberty Buick-GMC Trucks, we make car shopping and buying an easy process with no hidden fees or services or small print. And we have recently made the car-buying process even easier with online shopping and delivery.
Simply head over to our online retailing site and begin shopping. This easy-to-use site can help you find the perfect vehicle, pick your trim and accessories, select extended limited warranties, and schedule a delivery.

Another nice aspect to using this method to buying is you can estimate your trade-in value and monthly payments, find the latest incentives, and apply for credit directly from the website. Once you are ready, your vehicle will be prepped and delivered to your home at your convenience.

It really is this simple:

1. Select Your Vehicle—

• Select Desired Model from Inventory
• Look for the Start Buying Process button Next to a Model of Your Choice

2. Create Your Deal—

• Estimate Trade-In
• Choose Finance or Lease Options

3. Schedule a Delivery—

• Take Delivery at Home with Participating Dealers or Schedule a Pickup at the Show Room

It’s Time to Shop
Before you go to buy a new GMC truck, it’s important to think about how you will use it. Both the 2020 Canyon and the 2020 Sierra have unique components, which make them a perfect match for different types of truck drivers.

GMC’s commitment to excellence is apparent in both of these top-of-the-line trucks. And once you find the model that fits best, let us take you for a test drive and answer any questions you might have. Plus, you won’t find a better price on a GMC Sierra truck anywhere other than Liberty Buick GMC-Trucks. Come see us (virtually or in-person) today.

*Source: https://thenewswheel.com/gmc-sierra-1500-and-gmc-canyon-earn-spots-on-us-news-list-of-2020-reliable-trucks/

Black Friday Ads for 2019

GMC Sierra 2500 Inventory

Buick Enclave Inventory

GMC Yukon Inventory

GMC Sierra 1500 Inventory

GMC Acadia Inventory

Buick Encore Inventory

GMC Terrain Inventory

Defy Convention with the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD

Are you in the market for a new heavy-duty truck? GMC has you covered from top to bottom with the new Sierra 2500HD. At first glance, the 2020 Sierra 2500HD—which is in its first year of a new body structure—is as impressive as they come. And once you get into the details of its capabilities and features, it doesn’t disappoint. In short, it’s powerful yet refined—sophisticated yet practical. This article will discuss the 2020 Sierra 2500HD’s remarkable towing performance, its beautiful and functional exterior and interior features, and the various trim levels and their pricing.

THE TOWING

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the new Sierra 2500 HD is its towing capabilities. Let’s dive into the details:

 

Trailering Capabilities

The Sierra 2500HD can tow up to 30,000 pounds, which is quite a jump from the 2019 models of 23,300 lbs. It’s clear that GMC focused on attracting customers who are looking to pull a trailer. This is the first year that the automobile manufacturer has assigned the Sierra HD models its own chief engineer and development program; in times past, their development was seen simply as an extension of the Sierra 1500. Jaclyn McQuaid, the chief engineer, noted that trailering was the focal point in the Sierra HD’s design process, pointing out that the 2020 models have “a beefier driveline and suspension, a stiffer frame, larger axles and propshafts, and an enhanced cooling system.” In other words, it’s built to be a towing juggernaut. 

The Powertrain 

Of course, no features will allow for impressive towing capacity like a truck’s powertrain, and the Sierra HD has it going on in that department. The available 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8 produces 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. While these are the same numbers as previous models, this engine has been designed for higher efficiency in the 2020 Sierra 2500HD. For instance, there is a bigger radiator and fan for extra cooling capacity, as well as, enhanced air induction. One of the most impressive aspects of the powertrain is the new Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, which is being offered for the first time in this line up of HD pickups. With closer gear spacing than ever before, the engine is able to consistently run at the perfect level, no matter the towing load or terrain. 

This is also the first year that GMC is offering a 6.6-liter engine that runs on gasoline in their HD trucks. The 6.6-Liter gasoline direct-injected V8 engine is exclusive to GMC, and it delivers 401 hp and 464 ft-lb of torque. This is an 11% and 22% increase in hp and torque, respectively, from the 6.0-liter gasoline engine of previous models. Customers who opt for the 6.6-liter gasoline V8 will get the 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission. 

Finally, the powertrain improvements for the 2020 Sierra 2500HD include bigger and stronger rear axles, which helps to provide maximum torque to the ground, as well as, better gross axle weight ratings (GAWR). The front axles are also bigger and stronger in general, and an 11.5-inch ring gear comes standard on all 2500HD models. 

Transparent Trailer View

Along with more power to pull a trailer, the new Sierra HD features one of the most exciting new technologies in the industry today: transparent trailer view. GMC calls it the ProGrade Trailering System, and it essentially renders the trailer invisible behind the truck. This has obvious advantages for trailer haulers from experts to novices. 

By using various combinations of 15 cameras, the trailering system is designed to simplify every aspect of trailering. Seeing through the trailer allows for easier and safer maneuvering in traffic, backing up and parking. The system even offers a close-up of the hitch, making coupling a breeze. Furthermore, the ProGrade Trailering System includes:

• Lights for the hitch area
• Automatic parking brake assistance
• Integrated trailer brake controller
• A mobile app with a departure checklist, tire pressure monitoring, theft notifications and many other features

Hauling Capabilities

GMC also worked to improve the 2020 Sierra HD’s hauling capabilities and to make loading and unloading cargo as practical as possible for customers. For one, it now leads its class in cargo- bed volume and offers 12 corner tie-downs, and you have the option of adding a 120-volt power outlet in the bed. The cargo bed railings are an inch lower than the 2019 Sierra HD models, which lends to an easier liftover. 

Additionally, the truck has steps on the sides of the bed and on the corners of the rear bumper—roughly the size of a work boot—so that customers can have better access to objects inside the bed. Moreover, higher trim levels of the Sierra HD showcase the new MultiPro six-function tailgate that was introduced by GMC on the 1500 models this year; however, the version of the tailgate found on the 2500 is designed specifically for the HD models.  

THE EXTERIOR

Now that you know the gist of the towing capabilities, let’s take a look at the exterior characteristics:

 

Body Construction 

2020 marks the beginning of a new era of body style for GMC pickups; overall, it’s larger and more aggressive than ever before. The contrast between the Sierra 1500 and 2500HD is more apparent than in previous years, as the latter now stands 2 inches taller and stretches 10 inches longer than its 2019 version. 

Additionally, the hood line is elevated, and the grill is an entirely different thing altogether. While GMC has received some criticism for the redesigned grill on the Sierra (as with the Chevrolet Silverado), there’s no question that it makes a statement: a bold, unapologetic statement with lots of chrome and character. The grill is massive, and it’s capped by a hood scoop that adds to the overall appeal of the truck. The hood scoop is also designed to assist the new cooling system that comes with the Duramax turbo-diesel engine. 

Another component that adds to the Sierra HD’s aggressive look is the LED lighting, which is everywhere. This includes headlights, taillights, roof marker lights and fog lights (available through an upgrade). Moreover, the roof has four yellow running lights, and each wheel-well flare has an orange side marker at the top.  

Colors

There are eight primary colors to choose from for the Sierra HD models:

• Summit White
• White Frost Tricoat
• Quicksilver Metallic
• Onyx Black
• Carbon Black Metallic
• Pacific Blue Metallic
• Dark Sky Metallic
• Red Quartz Tricoat

THE INTERIOR 

There’s more to the 2020 Sierra HD than it’s attractive and functional exterior; it’s also built to impress on the inside:

Roominess

Driver and passenger comfort is a big part of the Sierra HD’s appeal. GMC has stepped up their game in creating more room in the cabin. In fact, the 2500 crew cab models are now top of the class for front head and legroom. Also, there are three more inches of legroom in the rear seat than there were in previous models. If you’re one of the 90% of GMC customers who choose a crew cab body style, this extra room could prove critical in your riding experience—particularly on longer trips. 

Seats and Trim

The cabin in the Sierra HD models is built on the same construction as the Silverado. However, that’s where the similarities end. As with many other specs, GMC puts their unique touch on their cabin features, and the new Sierra HD is no exception. For starters, the seating profile is higher than in recent years, which provides increased visibility on the road and, perhaps, a greater sense of safety. While the base model is satisfyingly upscale, the most elaborate interior comes in the Denali edition, which sports large pebbled grain leather upholstery with contrasting stitching, and no truck will have identical-looking seats. Also, the trim on the Sierra HD Denali comes in authentic open-pore wood with dark aluminum decor. 

Technology 

You’ve read about the ProGrade Trailering System, which is intelligently integrated into the Sierra 2500HD’s computers. But that’s not all the impressive technology the truck offers. There are 15 cameras in total, which come in handy even when you’re not hauling a trailer. For instance, you can see an overview of the truck, inspect the cargo in the bed, and see along the wheels as you parallel park. 

Additionally, a coinciding mobile app called MyGMC offers several functions that assist with pulling a trailer and keeping the trailer in good condition (e.g., controlling temperature, monitoring tire pressure, checking trailer lights, controlling the integrated brake system, etc.). Furthermore, you can opt for a 15-inch head-up screen that displays important functions such as an odometer, an inclinometer, trailer info, and navigation instructions, among others. And let’s not forget about the optional Rear Camera Mirror and HD Surround Vision camera system. 

THE TRIMS AND PRICING

The 2020 Sierra 2500HD comes in five trim levels: The base model, SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. Prices for these trims, along with a plethora of configurations, differ as much as $30,000. 

 

Base Model, SLE, and SLT 

The base model Sierra 2500HD starts at $37,195 MSRP, which is the least expensive option we’ve seen for a GMC Heavy Duty truck in years. The Sierra 2500HD comes as a regular cab/long bed model, and it is basically GMC’s version of the Silverado Work Truck. The price goes up to $41,595 if you opt for a crew cab with a standard bed, and you can add a long bed for $200. 

The SLE is one step above, meaning it has a few niceties not included in the base model. Starting at $41,595 (regular cab/long bed), you can get a crew cab with a standard bed for $45,395. Again, adding a long bed to the crew cab model is just $200. The SLT is the Sierra 2500HD’s middle trim level, and it reflects both in price and features. It comes stocked with a double cab and standard bed for $52,195, and you can upgrade to a crew cab/standard bed for $53,995. 

AT4

This trim is all new to the GMC lineup of trucks. The AT4 was designed with off-roaders in mind. It comes with unique exterior and interior features (e.g., exclusive paint colors, dark chrome grille, and trim, jet black upholstery, etc.), as well as some practical upgrades that make it worthy of its all-terrain title. For instance, the AT4 is stocked with an off-road suspension, locking rear differential and skid plates. It also comes with an off-road mode you can select for the traction control system. Furthermore, it boasts a hill start assist and hill descent control. The AT4 comes only in the crew cab model, which starts at $59,295; it’s $200 to add a long bed. 

Denali

The Denali is the Sierra’s luxury trim and has been since 2001. Along with some of the interior perks mentioned previously, the Denali comes with an enlarged chrome grill and 20-inch chrome wheels, among other features. Limited to crew cab form, it starts at $65,295, with the option of adding the $200 long bed. 

If you’re looking for muscle and appeal in a truck, don’t settle for anything less than the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD. It has towing and hauling capabilities to compete with any pickup in its class, and its innovative trailering technology is second to none. And let’s not forget its bold, attractive and functional exterior and interior. Be sure to come out to Liberty for a test drive, and find the trim level that works best for you! 

-Alex Watson

GMC Is Announcing A New Off-Roading Line Comparable To Jeep! (The New 2019 GMC Sierra AT4)

Big things are happening at GMC and Liberty Buick GMC is excited to share the company’s future plans. Car enthusiasts and outdoor lovers are looking forward to the new GMC off-roading line of AT4 vehicles. Within the next couple of years, GMC will be offering an AT4 branded off-roading model with every GMC vehicle. We’re kicking off the line with the new 2019 GMC Sierra AT4. 

GMC is thrilled to release this new premium-grade line of vehicles that will be both aesthetically pleasing with a bold and athletic look as well as complete with innovative technologies and outstanding capabilities. Whether you find yourself venturing off the comfort of normal roads or just want to be prepared to drive in any place or conditions, the AT4 line will ensure that you’re confident for anything headed your way.

Related: 2019 GMC SIERRA: WHAT WILL BE UNVEILED?

2019 GMC Sierra AT4

The 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 will be the first vehicle of this model line and enthusiast couldn’t be more supportive of its launch. Here are just a few noteworthy details about the new truck: 

Exterior

The exterior of the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 will follow a very distinctive, bold look similar to the 2018 GMC Sierra. The front and rear bumper will be the same color as the body, while the signature grille will be finished in a sleek black chrome. This, paired with the unique design and texture of the grille and C-shaped LED lighting will create a very masculine and eye-catching appearance. The LED fog lamp bezels, fender badge, and other features will be set in the black chrome color. Modern design touches shine through with the window trim and mirror caps in a high gloss black and touches of red on the vertical tow hooks, showing more definition in the vehicle and creating an overall striking look. 

Interior

The interior of the new 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 is held to the same standards as the daring exterior, while adhering to the individuals of an adventurous and outdoor lifestyle. This means durable materials, rubber flooring, and comfort for the ride inside the vehicle. The interior colors are a dark and bold color, featuring a Jet Black with Kalahari accents. The steering wheel will feature a textured real aluminum finish in a darkened color. The seating material is a very elegant and quality leather material with a sharp embroidered AT4 stamp on the headrest for an abrasive look.  To add to the needs of an adventurer, the truck is equipped with interior storage. A pair of 10-liter storage areas can be found of the back of the rear seats and a 24-liter storage tray lies beneath second row seating. 

Capabilities

Capabilities is a big one in a trucks designed for off-roading. The AT4 model has a suspension 2 inches higher to allow for easy clearance in a more aggressive driving terrain. Undoubtedly, the vehicle comes standard with four-wheel drive and has two-speed transfers for a customizable driving experience. Some top capabilities include: 

·         Off-Roading Tuned Rancho Monotube Shock Absorbers

·         Locking Rear Differential

·         Skid Plates

·         Hill Descent Control

·         5.3-liter V-8 Engine (available 6.2-liter V-8 Engine and a 3.0-liter inline-six turbo-diesel)

·         Traction Select System

·         Segment-First Multi-Color Head-Up Display

·         Surround Vision 

These features are designed to make off-road driving experiences more comfortable and easy to navigate, no matter the terrain. Anti-lock braking technology allows for the driver to feel in control when travelling on uneven or bumpy grounds. This can also relieve the pressure of a drive where you might otherwise feel like you must constantly push the brake. There is preset driving modes for easy transition to a variety of terrains and road conditions. Switching the mode automatically changes the transmission shift point and throttle mapping to create the optimal performance for the conditions. The driver can also look at stats of the fore-and-aft tilt, front tire angle, and left-and-right tilt in the corner of the windshield on the Head-Up Display. All of this data is customizable to the driver’s needs. To make parking a breeze or squeezing in and out of rough areas manageable, the vehicle has a full “bird’s eye” view of the vehicle and its surroundings. 

Related: 2018 SIERRA IS STILL THE TOP CHOICE FOR A WORK TRUCK

This is just the beginning of all the neat features and designs GMC has instore for the new line of off-roading AT4 models. Keep your eye out for the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4 and its release this fall. Liberty Buick GMC can’t wait to have this new line on the lot, but if you’re in the market now, check out the 2018 GMC Sierra and 2017 GMC Sierra.