May 9, 2018
The 2019 GMC Sierra flaunts its upscale mission with more exterior and interior distinctions. The Sierra is the highest-volume model in the GMC portfolio, reflecting the market shift to trucks, and it has become the foundation for the brand; top-of-the-line Denali models command 75 percent of sales.
The 2019 Sierra gets bold new looks and a number of segment-leading technologies; GMC claims the newest version of the Sierra Denali redefines the premium pickup segment, while advancing the truck's legacy as the pinnacle of GMC design, capability, and refinement. "GMC ignited the premium truck segment 17 years ago with the original launch of the Sierra Denali," says Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global GMC. "The next-generation 2019 Sierra Denali establishes a new benchmark in capability and refinement. It exemplifies precision in every detail."
The new pickup is larger in every dimension. Powerful proportions and distinctive Denali badging define the exterior that has a taller, more confident stance and a bigger, more-dominant upright grille, a higher hood, and a bolder, more pronounced take on GMC's C-shaped lighting signature. The wheels are pushed closer to the corners and are shod in larger-diameter tires. In back, more prominent badging includes a bold DENALI nameplate on the tailgate - expressed in a new block-style typeface - below GMC's signature identification.
A new showcase feature is the GMC exclusive, industry-first MultiPro Tailgate, standard on SLT and Denali trims. The MultiPro Tailgate has six unique functions and positions, offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation mode, and provides easier access to items in the box. It also incorporates a step entry and egress mode that, when paired with the assist handle, offers both step and seated functionality, with a maximum weight capacity of 375 pounds. Two buttons on the tailgate handle allow a convenient inner gate release.
The cargo boxes also offer best-in-class carrying volume, boasting 63 cubic feet on the short box, as well as additional tie-downs and a new, available 110-volt power outlet. While the bed is made of roll-formed, high-strength steel alloy that offers 50 percent more strength than the current model, the 2019 Sierra Denali will offer an optional GMC exclusive and industry-first carbon fiber box. Developed to increase durability, efficiency, and functionality, the CarbonPro bed replaces the standard steel inner panels and floor with a lightweight, purpose-designed carbon fiber composite that's 62 pounds lighter, and boasts best-in-class dent, scratch, and corrosion resistance.
Inside is a more spacious, driver-centric environment finished with Denali-exclusive materials, such as premium leather-appointed seating, authentic open-pore wood trim, and dark-finish aluminum decor. Exclusive leather appointments have a distinctive, large-pebbled grain with a contrasting stitch pattern that is premium in appearance and touch without sacrificing durability, while new wood trim features an open-pore texture evocative of hand-planed furniture.
A higher seating position provides drivers with a confident view behind the wheel, as well as improved interaction with the vehicle's technologies, including the all-new trailering app, infotainment screen with bird's-eye Surround Vision, and segment-first 3x7-inch head-up display that projects key vehicle information on the windshield within the driver's line of sight.
Another Denali first is an available dual-function interior mirror that offers an optimized camera view to see around such potential obstructions as occupants or cargo, while bringing a greater field of vision. This next-gen system features a higher-resolution camera, a higher-resolution display, and the ability to tilt or zoom the view.
Under the hood are new versions of the proven 6.2-liter and 5.3L V-8 engines, as well as an all-new 3.0L inline-six turbodiesel engine. The 5.3L and 6.2L engines feature stop/start technology and new Dynamic Fuel Management that enables the engine to operate on one to eight cylinders, depending on demand, to optimize power and efficiency. The new diesel builds on GMC's expertise with Duramax turbodiesels offered in Sierra HD and Canyon models. The available 6.2L and 3.0L engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
GMC's new ProGrade Trailering System is standard on Denali and SLT and includes an all-new Trailering App featuring a pre-departure checklist, maintenance reminders, trailer light test, trailer electrical diagnostics, and trailer tire pressure and temperature monitoring. Many of the Trailering App's functions, including the lighting test and pre-departure checklist, are also available with the MyGMC app on compatible Android and iOS smartphones.
New is hitch guidance with hitch view and an automatic electric parking brake to aid in positioning when hitching. Available sideview cameras and a trailer-mounted HD camera give improved visibility for forward and rearward driving. Exclusive Trailer Theft Detection can notify owners when the trailer has been detached from the truck without permission. The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali and SLT go on sale this fall.