General Motors reported earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) adjusted of $3.9 billion for the second quarter 2016. GM North America accounted for $3.6 billion, or 92 percent, of that. And of that $3.6 billion made by GMNA, over half was earned by The General’s full-size pickup trucks — the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. In other words, without strong sales of and profits on its full-size trucks, General Motors would have substantial financial troubles. Problem is, the automaker is falling behind the competition in the space, and real-world buyers are taking note.
* GM South America posted a $0.1 billion loss during the quarter and is not displayed
To be completely clear: the house isn’t falling down — so there’s no need to panic… at least not just yet. As the British Government proclaimed during the Second World War, Keep Calm and Carry On. Or in this case, do just that, while remaining mindful of GM’s various  competitive disadvantages with its trucks.
How and why is GM falling behind? In short, it all comes to features and creature comforts: today, trucks are used as much for work, as they are for personal/family use, and recreation. Pickups are perhaps the only vehicle that need to seamlessly balance and blend those capabilities, and GM’s current generation of the Silverado and Sierra, which were launched in 2014, can do a much better job at that, especially in light of the competition.
1. Push-Button Start & Keyless Entry
There is no reasonable justification that Chevy and GMC trucks near the $40,000 mark and above are not equipped with push-button start. There’s even less reason that $50,000+ trucks like the GMC Sierra Denali or Chevrolet Silverado High Country don’t have the feature.
Those who ardently believe that push-button start and/or keyless entry are gimmicks either haven’t lived with a vehicle equipped with the features, or would be perfectly fine if new vehicles needed a crank to start the motor. Both keyless access and push-button start enable the driver to keep the key in the pocket, purse, handbag, or what have you, while entering and starting the vehicle. With comfort and convenience being the name of today’s automotive game, these needed to have to come to the Silverado and Sierra yesterday. As a secondary benefit, the technology will also empower GM to avoid ignition switch fiascos in the future.
Competitors that have it: Ford F-Series, Nissan Titan.
2. Optional Console-Mounted Shifter
Console-mounted shifter in 2016 Ford F-150 Limited
Rotary e-shift switch on Ram Truck
GM’s reasoning for sticking exclusively to the column-mounted shifter isn’t without merit, since avoiding a console-mounted shifter opens up that area for heaps of storage space. Problem is that not everyone cares about the space, and some want the look and feel provided by the console-mounted option.
Granted, this is a subjective preference for those who want it. But keep in mind that the beset-selling truck in the country — the Ford F-Series — offers it, and there is no reason that GM should not on such profitable and vital vehicles as Silverado and Sierra, at least on the higher-end trims.
Perhaps a better idea: switch to a digital system such as the rotary e-shift on the Ram Pickup and end the column and console shifting argument forever.
Competitors that have it: Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup (digital shift).
3. Dual Exhaust Option
Dual exhaust on 2017 Ram 1500 Laramie Limited Crew Cab 4×4
Sure, dual exhaust is purely an aesthetic feature that, for some, makes the truck look better than with a curved exhaust tip. There’s also the secondary benefit of a better exhaust note.
In that regard, this one is right put here with the console shifter: it’s not exactly functional nor a necessity in a truck. In fact, it might even restrict access to parts of the bed. But there is demand for this feature in the real world.
Competitors that have it: Ram Pickup.
4. Uncompromising Off-Road Variant
2017 Ford F-150 Raptor
We have been waiting so long for this, and it doesn’t seem like it’s coming for GM’s K2-generation of trucks. No matter: Ford has the F-150 Raptor, and Ram has the Rebel. Outside of the Z71 package, which doesn’t hold a candle to either one of those trucks, GM has nothing in this segment.
Granted, the Raptor doesn’t sell in huge quantities. But that’s not the point: each one sold makes a healthy profit on a per-unit basis, and — more importantly — creates immense interest in the truck line and in the overall brand, resulting in salivating fanboys and fangirls in the process. That, in turn, turns into (online) research and showroom visits, and some of those convert into sales of other vehicles within the lineup. And that is the halo effect at its finest.
PS: the Colorado ZR2 will be good, but its sales potential will be limited, as it won’t compete in the world’s best-selling pickup truck segment (full-size trucks).
Competitors that have it: Ford Raptor, Ram Rebel.
5. More Active Safety Features
Both the Silverado and Sierra currently offer some form of active safety features, such as Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist, Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking, and GM-exclusive Active Seat, along with the recent addition of trailering camera. But the trucks currently don’t offer the most advanced collision avoidance features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control (available on GM’s full-size SUVs), Surround Vision and Rear Camera Mirror.
We’d like to see all three make their way to the trucks as extra-cost, optional features, as each will be highly useful in a large truck while also enabling GM to charge more for the features, thereby raising ATPs and per-unit profit margins.
Competitors that have it: Ford F-Series; GM vehicles.
6. Second-Row A/C Vents
Second-row A/C vents with heated outboard rear seats on 2015 Ford F-150 SuperCrew
How a full-size truck with four full-size doors in today’s day and age can be sold without A/C vents for the second row is just impolite. The poor folks sitting back there, whether kids or fellow colleagues, are no different from the driver and front-seat passengers — they, too, get hot and cold. So, why don’t they get any love?
When GM gets around to adding the vents to the Silverado and Sierra, it should also add tri-zone or quad-zone climate control as well.
Competitors that have it: Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup.
7. Smarter Bed Solutions
2017 Ram 1500 RamBox with Mopar holster system
Wouldn’t it be useful if your truck had built-in storage in the sides of the bed without sacrificing its functionality? Why, yes it would be. Ram has just that with the RamBox Cargo Management System, negating the need for big, heavy and expensive tool boxes. Even better, RamBox is drainable and can also be locked. We have previously outlined multiple features we would like to see from GM when it comes to truck bed solutions, but it’s nice to serve a reminder every once in a while.
Stowable Loading Ramps on 2015 Ford F-150
And for those who need to get a four-wheeler, a pair of motorcycles or dirt bikes, or maybe even a golf cart into the bed of their truck without ten guys, a forklift, or self-made plywood, wouldn’t it be practical if the truck offered built-in rails to do just that? Sure it would. Ford offers just that on its new F-150. Called Stowable Loading Ramps, it’s a pricey option but one that is highly useful and profitable for the Blue Oval.
In all, GM needs to offer smarter truck bed solutions. That said, one feature that is new for the 2017 model year is capless fuel fill — a highly-convenient and time-saving feature. GM was slightly behind Ford in bringing it to their trucks, but we’re glad it’s here now.
Competitors that have it: Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup.
8. Updated Center Console And Dash Design
The cabin of the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado High Country
From many a standpoint, there is nothing particularly wrong with the interior designs of the current Silverado and Sierra… if you are using them in the oil field or the construction site. Problem is, these vehicles are used just as often for personal use. And that is when we wish they had a little more pizzaz to their highly-utilitarian dash and center console layout.
Some decorative elements on the passenger side of the dash would certainly help, and we’re sure that GM’s multitude of interior designers can think of all kinds of ways to make the center stack of each model more appealing to the eye. Ford and Ram seem to have the perfect combination of practicality and eye-appeal. So can GM.
9. Higher-End Silverado Trim Level
The High Country trim on the Silverado is nice, but it’s not for everyone. In a day and age when vehicle personalization and customization is the ultimate differentiator, especially on more expensive vehicles, the Silverado High Country by itself isn’t enough, as there are those who want a flagship truck that’s not all about the country. Though it does a great job competing with the likes of the Ford F-Series King Ranch, there is nothing in the Silverado lineup that takes on the F-Series Platinum trim. Though some might argue that GMC Sierra Denali accomplishes that feat, we’d posit that both brands should be able to stand independent from each other.
So, Chevy needs to offer a high-end, urban trim level for the Silverado. Something that is similar to the Sierra Denali, but is still Silverado and Chevrolet.
10. Half-Ton Diesel
FCA’s Ram was first to offer a diesel engine in a modern half-ton truck with the GM-influenced 3.0L EcoDiesel, instantly drawing interest and attention from America’s truck buyers. Ford appears to be following suit, and Nissan partnered with Cummins to stick a 5.0L V-8 turbo-diesel making 310 horses and 555 pound-feet of torque in the pseudo-heavy-duty Titan XD. On multiple occasions, GM has stated that it is ready to respond with a diesel in its full-size half-ton trucks. And therein lies the problem: as the industry offers oil burners in its half-tons, GM is waiting at the ready.
Has anyone ever benefitted from being the last to offer a vehicle in a certain segment or sub-segment? We think you already know the answer.
11. Less Weight
There have been rumblings that General Motors may utilize a more mixed-material approach in the future when it comes to trucks. Making the full-size models significantly lighter can both improve emissions and fuel economy, and allow for the usage of… you guessed it…
…Bonus: Smaller Displacement Turbocharged Engines
When introducing its current GMT-K2 generation Silverado and Sierra, GM made a point out of saying that the EcoTec3-branded, naturally-aspirated V-6 and V-8 engines are truck motors through and through, in some ways suggesting that smaller, turbo-charged motors originally developed for non-truck (car) applications have no business powering pickups. Meanwhile, Ford has bet big on turbocharging and decreasing displacement of its own EcoBoost-branded motors.
At this point, the jury is still out on whether boosted, smaller-displacement engines actually deliver real-world performance or fuel economy improvements over larger natural breathers. But for the sake of on-paper competitiveness, perhaps it would be beneficial for GM to offer one or two boosted motors in its half-tons.
In All…
Full-size pickups are the lifeblood of General Motors, and it’s vital that GM maintains healthy sales and profit margins of the vehicles. And though the present-generation K2 trucks do the basics really well, it’s fairly clear that some new comfort and convenience features are in order. Luckily, it has been rumored that GM has moved up the release of its all-new, next-gen pickup trucks on the T1XX platform to the 2018-2019 calendar year. In that regard, we might see some or all of the aforementioned features on those vehicles, rather than seeing the current trucks receive the changes.
Lest you think we are a handful of opinionated auto writers, all of the above is based on actual feedback we have received in the mail from readers. Have a look for yourself.
“I’m convinced GM thinks I’m an idiot”
Let me say that I love GM trucks, but I’m convinced GM thinks I’m an idiot and don’t do my own research before I buy a truck. Ford beats GM in every single category from luxury to utility to safety to performance and the incentives are a little better. It’s time to consider buying a Ford if GM can’t get their act together. 2017 Raptor!
“GM thinks they can build it and we will buy it regardless”
It appears GM thinks they can build it and we will buy it regardless. They do somehow continue to sell a lot of trucks. It’s amazing how short the Silverado comes up when compared to the Ford. GM literally giving market share to Dodge, Toyota and Ford. I think GM is just satisfied being mediocre in the middle of things. It’s also very clear Ford wants the # 1 spot very badly! Nice job Ford!
“After 30 years with GM, I switched to Ford”
Frankly, after 30 years with GM I switched to FORD to get the adaptive cruise, push button start as well as numerous other features that are not available on GM trucks. I was dumbfounded that GM did not keep pace with Ford or Ram. I get it but when I am paying $60k for a truck a lot of the options mentioned in this article should be there. GM does not even respond to email regarding the subject including capless fuel.
New F-150 “blew my socks off”
I went to look at a new Ford F-150 today. Blew my socks off! The full moon roof, keyless start, luxury items throughout that you don’t see on GM trucks. Heated rear seats, AC vents to rear seats, power ports in the rear. Adaptive cruise control, center console shifter. Basically a Cadillac in a truck version. The Ford can out haul, out row, literally out run the GM trucks and that’s with a 6.2. I can’t imagine what ecoboost will do to the underpowered 5.3.
If GM was selling for only 40 or 50k like Dodge, I could see them getting away with such lack of options, but for 60+ they should be equivalent.
I’ve always preferred a GM truck, but these days GM is just cheapening out on all the little things they put in the Cadillac’s and making out like bandits in profit on the trucks. On the other hand, Ford has introduced the Cadillac concept in trucks and taken it further with the Raptor. Amazing truck!
I will not buy another 60,000 dollar truck that is not superior to other trucks in the market place. Putting you on notice, GM, Ford is looking pretty good these days. Change your ways or lose another truck customer to Ford.
Comments
I completely disagree with options 1 & 2. As the owner of a current gen GMC canyon, i can say that the console shifter is my most disliked feature of the truck. Why waste that space when there is plenty of room on the column. Even the Mercedes suv that I have driven also featured a column shifter. I am only 20 and have grown up with features like push button start, and must admit that it is the most useless feature ever. Most men don’t have a purse or a bag to keep their key in, and it is a lot more functional to have it sitting in the ignition, than in my tight pockets. In regards to the smaller displacement engines comment, if GM is able to get relatively close fuel economy numbers with a V-8 to competitions V-6, than why would a move to smaller displacement be necessary. While fuel economy may help sway a buyer, it is far from the first thing someone looks at when buying a truck. There is no replacement for displacement.
With that being said, i do think you present some good points. An offroad variant, second row A/C vents, an updated dash, and a half ton diesel would be welcome changes.
I agree on 2. I thought no console mounted shifter was a FEATURE…. I hate console-mounted shifters… I’ve never heard of someone liking it.
Sure if you have “manual Mode” on an automatic sports car I get it, so you can pretend its a stick, but not on truck?
I fully disagree on 1. I WILL NOT buy a car that requires a key to start. They are way too inconvenient. My last 2 cars have had keyless enter ‘n go and my truck does NOT and I HATE It.
Its not just the keyless start, its the ability to walk up to your car with your hands full, get the door open, sit down, and drive without having to comb through your pockets for a key.
This is literally one of those features I must have. When we bought my wife’s porsche, they had one on the lot without it and I literally said I would not take it, I’d rather pay thousands more and order the one with it, just for that single feature.
I have had a car with push button start for about a year now. I was hesitant at first, but I can say without a doubt that I absolutely HATE it. The *only* benefit is being able to push the button on the door handle to open the door or trunk without taking the key out of my pocket. However, I have forgotten or lost my key more times in the past year than I ever have, including losing the key inside the car when it fell out of the pocket of my shorts and slid under the seat. Since they keys are uncomfortable in my pockets, I often take them out and put them in the cup holder where they have been left behind. I got into my car and pushed the button this morning, only for it to chime at me for not having the key in my pocket. Had to go back upstairs to get it. Also, the car runs so smoothly, I have pushed the button (apparently not hard enough), and the car was still running when I went to get out. All of these problems would be eliminated if I could just have a fail safe place, like an ignition slot, to put in my car. My wife hates them even more than I do, and refuses to own a car with a push button start. I feel that she will soon be out of luck.
I do agree that console shifters are silly in a truck though.
Your complaints are what we in the IT industry call a PEBKAC (Problem Exists Between Keyboard And Chair). User problems, don’t blame the technology because it’s not as slow as you are.
The IT industry? lol..this right here shows the kind of people buying “trucks” these days..no longer is a truck used for it’s intended purpose. This guy probably bought a loaded out $70k 4×4 truck that has a console shifter, push button start, heated and cooled leather seats with a bunch of “flair” in the interior and not a single scratch on the bed so he can drive back and forth to the office in it.
Well, the thing is that if GM only made trucks to serve folks living in shacks in the mountains or farmers in middle America, there wouldn’t be enough volume to innovate and survive as a business. GM needs to make trucks that appeal to many walks of life. For instance, an IT guy might use his truck to drive downtown to work during the week, then use it for a hunting trip on the weekends, or to pull his camper. This particular writer uses his to haul a bunch of crap around for work (boxes, parts, all kinds of stuff). Since I am on paved roads 98% of the time I need a “road truck” with limited off-road capabilities. I’m sure that if I had a ranch in Montana I’d have different priorities. So should expand the depth of their options packages to better cater to specific genre’s: Construction, off-road, farming, luxury and street-sport. The bones can be common, the dressing unique.
They need to find out there truck starting problems before I ever buy another one
I Have been asking for GM to please offer ,A diesel option too the Chevy and GMC half ton and I don’t think i am the only one !! Now as for the downsize of engine with Turbo, it seems ,that there finding out that, those engine are not getting all that great of mileage as advertised, in real driving and putting out more pollution .
I agree with all the suggestions in the article. GM is falling behind in innovation and flexibility.
The GM twins are priced on the higher end of the full-sized truck spectrum. It’s about time they were built that way.
As a owner of a 2016 duramax I gotta say while I overall like the silverado much better then the competition there is a few things I wish they did as well as the competitors.
1. Let us order trucks how we’d like. I really like the 6.2l engine, all that extra power at a 1 mpg penalty is well worth it to me. How ever its limited availability and only being in top trim trucks priced it so high I just couldn’t justify it.
2. Rear A/C vents. Truck isn’t horrible without them but having a black crewcab means on hot days I have to start my truck and let it cool down for a few minutes before putting my infant in the back seat, Having a rear vent would be a inexpensive for GM and it has caused enough uproar I cant believe they haven’t added them yet.
3. Storage! The glove boxes and center console are awesome, how ever there is no storage at all in the back besides the door pockets. Ram did great by putting the in floor storage pockets and factory under seat bins with the fold out flat floor, GM has a plastic under seat tub as optional accessory but its pretty cheap looking compared to rams. I like to carry some tools / emergency supplies that fit behind the seat of my old duramax but now they just roll around on the floor in the rear on the new truck.
4. A real sub woofer. The Bose system is okay, gets better as breaks in, but I feel like $65k truck could at least have a bit better sub then the 6″ it has now. I believe both Ram and Ford have a 8″ sub.
5. Suspension. Many of us use these trucks for daily drivers and never see near maximum payload, I would love to see softer riding 2500’s. Ram offers linked rear suspension with coils and air which i’ll admit is a huge attraction.
6. Pricing. I qualify for supplier pricing which is about 5% off msrp. How ever the new norm is to have a high msrp and always have the trucks 5+% off. This makes my discount worthless.
7. Innovation. GM has done great with making the trucks competitive without doing anything innovative (stuck with v8’s, still leaf sprung, mostly steel, etc) but it be nice to see more innovation. The only real thing I can think of that gm has that the competition doesn’t is android auto / apple car play. (Honestly one of the biggest reasons I went with chevy is because android auto is so awesome)
8. 1500 diesel. The Colorado simply didn’t offer enough room in back (car seat would only fit in middle on the largest crewcab model) The build quality and feature set on the Colorado may be best in class but definitely a notch below the full size trucks. The ecodiesel is a more attractive option as its more powerful and more capable then the Colorado, with nearly as good mileage, not limited in features like the colorado, and pricing seemed to be inline with the chevy 5.3l 1500’s. I feel like GM could have a good seller if they made a ecodiesel competitor.
9. Make true performance variants. Only offroad package offered is a skid plate, rancho shocks, and all terrain tires. We’d all love to see a truck with removable air dam, higher stance, bigger tires, etc. Doesnt have to be crazy, something close to a power wagon would be great though. On road performance version like the old SS trucks would be great and inexpensive, special bumpers, exhaust, lower sport suspension, and 6.2 engine standard. Really wish we could have a raptor competitor. My duramax is more of a toy then a necessity, I think raptors are pretty sweet but not a ford fan, If gm just made similar i’d be all over it. The Colorado disparately needs a better offroad package, I think a zr2 version if its anything like the prototype could steal lots of business from toyota.
10. Better dealers. Every GM dealer I went to was a disappointment with pushy idiot salesman that knew nothing about the trucks and constantly lying. I’m not saying Ram dealers are any better but it was nearly enough to make me want to buy use or keep my old truck.
Well written list of items GM needed to address yesterday.
Since this is their primary profit generator, GM should be looking for ways to leapfrog the competition and not just catch up!
When did GM eliminate the rear vents for the A/C?
My 2007 Silverado crew cab has A/C vents in the second row.
I always wondered that too. I’ve never gotten a straight answer at any of the training sessions that I’ve been at.
Must be a real important thing if you noticed when they went missing.
I’m not really sure what you’re implying. I haven’t been in the market for a new truck because I’m happy with my 07 Silverado, which has rear vents. How would I have “noticed” if I weren’t looking? If I were looking at new trucks today that would be an important consideration.
I’m frankly very surprised that GM would have removed such a feature. How is it that a 10 year old truck has this feature but not the new ones?
Not sure when they removed them but my 2012 1500 didn’t have them. Neither did my 2014 1500 or my 2016 2500.
Agreed! My 2002 had it. Ordered and received my 2014 and low and behold no rear ac vents?
This is a company truck – left to me I would have traded it for Ford right away!
Scott3 is forever a GM defender – seemingly he’s unable to see objective criticism!
1, 2, 3 NO 4-10 YES Defintantly esp the half ton diesel. How about #11 stop waiting for others to come out with stuff and be initiative and come up with your OWN IDEAS GM.
At our company we’ve always had Ford trucks for work, and the owner had Chevy for his personal trucks because he felt they were nicer and rode a little better. Now he’s all Ford.
Ram I think rides the best, hands down has the best looking exhaust. Fords clamped on chrome piece is a joke.
Fuel economy is there with the eco boost if you drive normal, the performance is there plus some. I was against the boosted 6 but now I’m a believer, the down low torque is really good.
GM has the outside look, all blacked out they look great.
They should of taken all that money spent on advertising against Ford and improved there own truck.
Focus on point 1,2,5,6,8,9
As a potential 2017 purchaser, I agree. Many of these items are available on lower end cars. GM interiors are bland.
Well I would not get all in panic mode here.
First off GM is not all that far out from replacing this truck with a All New Model. I expect that they are investing in the new truck more than putting more money in one that will be gone soon. Also these systems would be much better integrated in the new truck.
Second they are not exactly in dire straits with sales. While volumes are not growing neither are the others and most of them are only selling many trucks when they put 20% rebates on the hood like Chrysler. GM ATP is as high or higher than anyone in class. Profits are also very high. Lets face it GM right now has other products in more dire need than the trucks that can make it to the new models with little trouble.
Three. so much for all this need for all these things. Ford Motor Co. on Monday said it will shut down production of its best-selling F-150 pickup truck for a week at a Kansas City assembly plant, and temporarily idle three other plants over the next several weeks.
The F-150 is the best-selling vehicle model in North America, and a key profit-maker for Ford. However, sales of the overall F-series pickup model line fell nearly 3 per cent in September. Ford dealers had a heavy 95 days’ supply of the pickups on their lots at the end of September, according to data compiled by Automotive News.
So much all these added features are doing for them.
The truth is controlling cost right now is key. The market is predicted to be heading into a down turn and investing a bunch of money into a truck that will only be here 1-2 years is lost money. Better to put the investment into the new truck and add these features there.
Generally most of this segment is brand loyal and only a few people jump ship mostly due to price and incentives. Often they return because they find out why there are high rebates on these models.
Some of these ideas have good merit but with the right timing of production and investment. Putting much into these models now is like buying grandpa new shoes when he is getting his feet amputated next week.
We need to look at this big picture and where it is all going. Ford does not live or die on the Raptor. Yes nice added profits and Yes GM should have done one a couple years ago but at this point better left to the new model.
GM is now more focused on controlling cost and increasing profits as when you expect a market down turn these things really come into play as you need to squeeze more profit from less volume to move on. The MFG that have the best handle in controlling cost going in are the ones that will survive the best.
Volume has its place but cost control and profits per unit are also a bigger part of the equation.
Now lets just see where they take the new truck and then we can either praise of curse GM for what they did or did not do.
Some comments please.
Through the end of September F Series sales are up 5.5% over last year, RAM up 8.3%, Sierra 1.7% and Silverado -3.5% No use sugarcoating, GM is at the bottom of the heap.
You can spare me the dissertation of incentives, specifically RAM buying market share. Saw a lot of Silverado ads–national for $11,000 off–GM incentives bought plenty of sales too.
As to inventory, possibly GM should take Ford’s guidance and curtail production–As of October 1 F series had 93 days inventory, RAM 81, Sierra 86, and Silverado 91.
Bottom line is GM products need an update and the update better be of leapfrog quality because now they are not class best. There is no way as a GM stockholder I could accept there are more urgent needs of investment quickly! Generates probably the highest profit level with the highest volumes–sure seems like prime target for investment to me! Furthermore, this will allow the badly needed update of the full-sized SUVs that only control commanding market positions because of lack of decent competitors, something that apparently is going to change shortly.
Not sure how a power sliding full rear window escaped this list… Tundra has had this for years. C’mon, GM – it’s time.
They have power sliding rear window. Unless you mean the whole window roll down? If that’s the case it’s probably a expensive option that adds weight and cost room.
My 2015 1500 has a power rear window
After working for 3 GM dealerships over 35 as a fixed op director I find it unsatisfactory that GM has neglected the full size trucks. When I mentioned this at the dealer in New York , they were shocked that convince items were requested by me, like keyless and push button start as well as the safety packages. Truth be known I never looked at the competition, but after reading this my 18 will be compared to Ford and Dodge. It appears that GM is riding on the past. My 2013 CTSV has push button start and keyless, my wife,s 2017 XT5 still has some missing safety items not available on other similar vehicles. This makes no sense as the XT5 is a new model, certainly should not be behind the competeors. Thanks for allowing my comments.
What options do you find that XT5 missing? My biggest gripe is that it doesn’t come with Kona Brown or Morello Red interiors. And that the adaptive cruise is now having the same issues that the Escalade was having. Oh that was soooooooooo much fun to deal with. Oh yes Mr. Customer your $110,000 Escalade can’t use cruise control on your 500km trip, have fun. F%#k those were ugly and angry phone calls.
Then there are guys like me that want a truck to actually do work. I don’t want all these silly luxury items, add ons, and junk that make a truck cost $40k+. People that need a truck to do farm work can’t afford that crap. Also, what happened to the smooth ride AND reliability? I have always had GM products, and GM trucks. My dad has a 2005 Avalanche with nearly 300k miles on it. My 2009 Silverado has had the engine rebuilt, the transmission rebuilt, the evap system replaced, emergency brake replaced, cheap interior plastic replaced, power steering pump, door locks, and now AC is screaming. It has 120k miles and I’m pissed. I’m looking at Tundras, but all the trucks cost $40k, it is just stupid. Anyone have any suggestions? Lol
Last but not least,just take a look at how far they have fallen behind in the full sized passenger van lineup.You might argue that the Express and Savanna are capable vans,true but there is room for improvement ,but they are not even trying to play catchup in that segment,unless somebody out there knows more.——-I’m anxious to here it.
I provide Locksmith services, a pickup is worthless to me. But look at the full size van segment, GM is far behind.
Both, Dodge and Ford have started building vans tall enough to stand up in, without being hunched over.
I think all your points are valid. Given how profitable it is to be a major player in the truck market these days, one can’t help but wonder why GM has put forth a stronger effort in the segment. There are some strong offerings in the market and IMO GM hasn’t answered in kind. Note that Ford is even more dependent here, chalking up 90% profits to pickups according to Morgan Stanley.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-07-28/ford-profit-beats-estimates-as-buyers-pay-up-for-f-150-pickup
This is a good list but I agree with the first poster that the column shift and push button start are kind of pointless. I had the push button start on an Altima and it sucked.
Alex above is spot on with the back window. I would add one more item though. It bothers me that they assemble all the crew cab half tons in Mexico. Nothing badged as an American truck should be assembled outside the US.
I believe 70% of the new chevy truck parts are made in China
Proof?
I believe that 100% of that statistic was pulled out of your ass.
As the owner of a 2015 GMC Sierra, I would say one of the biggest shortcomings of the GM 1500s is a short travel front suspension that hasn’t changed since the last generation. It should have more travel and a slightly higher ride height so it isn’t so much of a city truck.
I haven’t owned a pick-up in 20 years and I was not aware of how Chevy/GMC trucks have fallen so far behind the competition.
One thing that Dodge, Ford, Chevrolet and GMC share is that they are all ugly.
Evey now and then I think that maybe I’d like a pick-up again and then when I see one of those obnoxious front grills in my rear view mirror I just leave that ugly thought behind.
Long-time Chevy Truck owner here and pretty much all GM vehicles over the past 25 years. On few instances have my wife and I even looked at the competition before buying or leasing another GM product. That may have to change if Chevy doesn’t up it’s game in the truck market. Items like 1, 3, 8, and 9 don’t impress me, but I would like to see a better engine line-up in the half-tons and HD’s. I still have a 2007 Silverado 1500HD (6.0L) that we tow a travel trailer with regularly. It’s sufficient for towing and has been a flawless truck, but it’s just “sufficient”. When my buddy’s F150 ecoboost can tow circles around me, I want something better from GM. The marketing of the ecoboost is wrong, it’s no more efficient than my 6.0 when you put 7000 lbs behind it, but it will tow like a beast. Granted, I’ve never been to a dealership for repairs in 90k miles and almost 10 years, and his F150 was traded in before the warranty ran out because he couldn’t keep the truck out of the shop (never engine related though). But, the ecoboost is impressive enough, that he went out and bought another F150.
And another point for GM, don’t tease me with 460 lb/ft of torque with the 6.2L and then force me into an LTZ trim package. Some of us don’t want all the bells and whistles but still want a strong towing engine. I can configure an F150 XLT ecoboost for thousands less than a Silverado LTZ 6.2.
I’m not a big diesel fan, but I still think there’s a market for a half-ton diesel as long as it’s the right size. Somewhere around 500-550 lb/ft seems like it would be a sweet-spot for half-ton owners that are towing 7-9k pound trailers. The ram Eco-diesel is too small. The HD’s with 900 lb/ft and $8k premium are too much.
if GM put the 6.0 or 6.2 as a option in all pickups their CAFE would take a beating because too many people would buy them. back in the day I owned a 482 cu in BBC with 500+ HP pickup and I still smile when I think about racing corvettes and porsches with a snowmobile or a couple of dirt bikes in the bed for traction
Isn’t only like a 1 mpg loss going to the 6.2?
The arguments for bringing back the Duramax 4500 seems overwhelming. Why not?
http://www.duramaxhub.com/45-duramax.html
I will add that I absolutely despise the dial shifter on the RAM. It is a complete waste and just basically sucked. Personally I like column shifters better and like the option of a third seat in the front.
Half those options are for guys that shouldn’t even be in a truck in the first place, it is an image thing for them; they probably had a Rubicon wrangler all modded out before hand that never left the pavement. It is those types of guys/buyers that are pricing the trucks out of reach to those who need it and actually use it.
Floor shift (wasted storage space), key less entry (keys in the pocket oh so comfortable), dual exhaust (easy to get smashed crossing a ditch or off road), rear vents (never blow enough cold air anyway they aren’t nearly as efficient as the front vents are full bore, it’s all in the head). You list off road variant and luxury items/features, that is an oxymoron. Basically all you did was list anything that wasn’t on the GM twins that is on the others. News flash, as each truck is redesigned in can incorporate new tech and features, what is missing this time will be included next time as well as new gizmos the others don’t have unless it is useless or not needed or creates a reliability problem
Give me strong bones and reliability over gimmicky tech. Look at the reliability of the Dodge’s or the laundry list of issues the Ford folks are having with everything.
The writer of this article seriously over looked massaging seats!
I happen to like keyless entry and push button start. My other vehicles have them and it is great not to have to fish around in your pockets with both hands full when leaving home depot. I don’t think that manlyhood is defined by
keyless entry or push button start options. Also how much money I have , what I do with it are not anyone’s business. I like toys! Safety technology should be on every vehicle, GM has the product a buyer should be able to purchase it if they choose.
#1: Have both on the wife’s Benz. Nice but not a deal breaker.
#2: This must be a joke. Don’t waste development time and money.
#3: Already an option. Under accessories in the ‘build-your-own’ tool. Borla Dual Split Rear Cat-Back Exhaust System
#4: Agreed. Long overdue.
#5: As extra cost options I would be okay with it.
#6: Not a deal breaker but very much missed by my kids a few years ago. Rarely have back seat passangers anymore so not a big deal for me
#7: Bed storage: Not worthless but pretty close to it. Ramps: That’s what the aftermarket is for.
#8: I like the current styling. Reduce the steering wheel offset just a bit.
#9: Definately.
#10: Diesel = YES. Turbo gas = YES (but with reservations) Very small displacement (3.0L or less) to help meet CAFE. Nothing that compete with the V-8s.
GM needs to do a much better marketing job. Ford fooled everyone with the ‘Eco’ prefix.
I so agree with the authors of this post/story. Especially # 6. It amazes me that a manufacturer could be so blatant with such cost cutting (especially as the Centre Console is there – and previous MY including my 2002 extended cab had rear a/c) and I’m even more amazed some persons defend that this need not be options?
As the author rightly posits these are $50,000 trucks with significant profit margins! There’s no excuse that these features are not available at least as optional on higher trim vehicles!
Heck, my 2000 blazer had rear air vents
GM has done a great job with their trucks let’s give them credit. For example, I’d take rear corner step bumpers over a keyless ignition and entry or capless fuel tank anyday ! I would like GM to offer the 6.2L on an lt or sle trim. You shouldn’t have to go to SLT or LTZ to get that engine. GM also needs to allow folks to have the max tow package on Z71 and All Terrain trim trucks so that those who want the look of the Z71 Chevy for example have real trailer towing mirrors and the other max tow features in order to tow a decent size trailer. You can get it on an HD but not on 1500. While they’re at it offer some 8 or 10 ply tires in the options list. My only other gripe is no heated or ventilated rear seats even on Denali? Come on GM, you can get it in a Tahoe/Yukon even in a Cruze , but not in your 1500’s? While the “Ram boxes” may be useful, the rest of the stuff mentioned is gadgetry and gimmicks.
Some folks are always dumb-founded as to why GM stocks aren’t higher than they should be and to the reasoning behind Wall Streets attitude towards GM . The truck side of the company falls short of it’s competition and this should be adding profits for the company . I have read that every 46 seconds a Ford truck is sold and I can see why after reading all of the posts .
I have never owned a pickup , SUV’s work fine for me and I can see where GM has some work to do . GM’s TAP’s may at a glance look good but they seem to be falling short in alot of segments of the market . They are way behind in offering small to mid size SUV’s and they are getting their &utt kicked in the full size trucks .
Ford offers a wide array of f-1550’s to satisfy just about any type of customer and Chrysler is also , GM needs to step up it’s game .
My theory, just the people what they want and don’t over think it.
They are behind with the 6.0, no power increase in years. That and they stopped the HD Yukon 2500. What a loss to campers.
ford may outsell chevy but I have seen figures where GM make a lot more profit on each truck than ford. those twin turbo engines are not cheap to produce along with the cost of the aluminum vs steel
That’s the point though!
GM is making huge profits from these trucks – so why are they not giving their customers more options?
Has anyone observed any corrosion on door edges of the new Ford. I am told that is an issue?
GM is letting Ford lead the way on trucks. I have always owned Silverado’s but the new Ford SuperDuty has a camera package that appears to be a great asset when towing trailers. I plan to buy a new Silverado when the 18 models come out but if they don’t have the camera package (it’s hard to see the car on passenger side in dead spot) I may have to consider a competitive model for the first time.
GM should also offer the 6 Litre and 8 speed across the board.
And Tahoe should also – that and Independent Rear Suspension.
At this point I’m driving the 2014 Silverado LTZ Crew Cab only because it’s a company truck. For my money as it currently stands I’d buy the F 150.
My list:
1. New engines. Keep the 6.2L to play with the 5.0L and hemi but GM needs a turbo V6 with low rpm torque if they want to play with the new 3.5L Ecoboost. Blocks should be CGI so they can run higher boost numbers and get really good numbers out of them. Then bring a smaller turbo diesel to run against the 2.7L ecoboost and ecodiesel from RAM. But the main production engine must have comparable hp and torque to the 3.5L ecoboost (new 2017 one). All should have GM’s start/stop technology (works much better than Fords).
2. Make the engines more available on all trim levels.
3. Get rid of the nasty speed-related vibration. GM has tried to push it under the rug using roadforce balancing of tires but it only helps the issue. We have new 2017’s on our lot that vibrate the seats between 60-70 kms/hr.
4. Rear HVAC venting and controls.
5. Improve frame strength and braking so they can move the HD’s up into the 30K range towing to compete with Ford and Ram. Personally I think it is stupid to tow 30K with anything less than a medium duty tractor truck (Freightliner, etc) because they are built to pull that weight every day but they need to be able to compete for those who don’t use common sense.
6. Add in an air-ride suspension (airbags) option to not only increase payload ratings but also keep your vehicle level (for your lights at night) when towing. It needs to use steel lines (guard against stones) and a moisture control system (either moisture evaporator or use nitrogen like RAM).
7. Surround camera from factory (versus the dealer installed accessory they plan to use now). It should basically mimic Fords with a cameras not only around the vehicle, but also centered over the box for 5th wheel hook up, plus have an optional Bluetooth capable wireless one to attach to the back of your trailer to see behind you.
8. Much improved interior – they really need to get rid of all the smooth flowing dash designs and put some various textures and surfaces inside (like the dash indents on the passenger side, etc). Add in some color options for the dash and make it more 2-tone in LT and up trim levels (door inserts match the dash trim colors, etc).
9. Convenience features – have an in-box control switch for the rear cargo and bed lights like Ford, floor shifter option for those who like a more sporty feel to driving, tablet holder option on the back of headrests for 2nd row children (replaces headrest DVD players), rear heated seating, a tailgate that actually lays down flat/level with the floor (for yrs they slope slightly upwards), rear seat storage improved (could be nicer under-seat storage with fold out floor option for flat loading area or in-floor bins like RAM), easily removable front air dam for people who need more ground clearance/approach angle, an exterior mirror that works similar to RAM tow mirrors that fold out for towing but fold in and look nice when not towing, make the in-box slide rails more affordable and a factory option rather than accessory (allows for various things like a tool box you can slide from the front of the cab to the back of the box for easy access, ladder rack attachments, tiedowns anywhere around the box, etc).
DPACH,
I disagree with you on two points.
#2: They don’t because of CAFE standards. They would sell a bunch more 6.2’s thus increasing the impact on CAFE. Now, if GM were to offer up a small TT V-6 that would offset the 6.2 and they would probably come out ahead.
#3: If they could without redesigning the frame or suspension they would. I personally have never experienced it.
No problems with the 2014 1500, my 2016 2500 or the 2015 1500 loaner I had.
General Motors needs to integrate the technology used to design and build Cadillac’s CT6 into their next generation of trucks as this will allow GM to shave hundreds of pounds of weight to their designs and increase fuel mileage.
Bring back quadrasteer!
I drive a 2015 GMC 2500 Denali; would it be too much to ask for a brown leather interior option and some real wood trim in a $65,000 truck?
If GMC stands for “Professional Grade” and “Denali” is the highest trim package, wouldn’t authentic materials like real wood trim, metal door handles, and suede headliner be warranted over plastic? Even if for an extra fee?
I will agree on pretty much on all the points that are listed here. I’ve been driving mostly GM vehicles and raise a question, why GM is so conservative with its trucks? Yes there are some features that are industry first, but most are just playing catch up few years later. Even with 2017 HD they are not raising towing capacity, saying “80% of our customers don’t tow over 20k” really? Maybe that’s why GM don’t have as many HD customers as Ram and Ford!
I think the biggest reason gm trails in towing specs is because they don’t offer lower rear end gears. I believe the Ram has a 5,500 lbs difference in tow rating from 3.73 to 4.10 gears. It affects getting the weight moving and engine braking.
The other big reason is gm has the lcf medium duty truck line (isuzu) and working to release a movies medium duty line up with a partnership with international. GM is deciding to leave the limits on the pickups low and instead push people to their medium duty trucks. People really should be buying a dedicated medium duty to tow 30k+. How ever medium duty trucks don’t tend to be near as nice pickups and don’t make good daily drivers.
What gm is doing makes since but they are probably losing some sales because people think the ram and ford must be much more heavy duty to have the much higher tow spec.
I agree with the entire list Alex… You have it right. There’s been other suggestions here too like Tundra’s rear power window option. I also agree with others on the Chevy vans. What is going on there and why is the small Astro style van a Nissan? And #10, why wasn’t this done a long time ago?? Why isn’t Chevrolet trying harder? Dodge is right there nipping at Chevy’s heels. Some days I see glimmers of hope from Chevy like the Corvette and even Colorado or Volt. But the rest of their entire line up seems half baked. They aren’t going all out. And with trucks of all things, it’s unacceptable and almost embarrassing to be a Chevrolet guy.
Let’s hope they nail the next design too. Clean lines, no odd origami surfacing or bulges and a sharp front end. Like they had on the 67-72’s. That model was pure perfection! Or even those 90’s Like A Rock models. Just Clean & Mean classic Chevrolet styling… Toned down wheel well openings again would be nice. C’mon Chevy…
Everything listed is everything I gave feedback to gm on. It’s very disappointing to have an ltz z71 loaded and have a friend with a lower model f150 with more features. So with that being said as I loyal gm customer if nothing is changed by 2019 I will be switching to the ram ecodiesel. Get it together gm your being left in the dust!
I have been waiting 2 1/2 years to buy a new GMC Sierra. GM didn’t put a different gas engine in the 2500 HD, so I guess I will get the 1500 Max Trailer with the 6.2 I want vents in the console for rear seats in Crew Cab. Drove a new F150 KR, way nicer in most ways. than the Denali. ALWAYS a GM man, but I’m tired of waiting & hoping. I might wait till the 2018’s come out. But, I may NOT!!!
What really is surprising is the towing capacity of the Chevy/GMC high end truck compared to Ford & RAM. GM is falling way behind. It would be nice to have the choice of the above mentioned options as well as higher towing capacity. Really pretty embarrassing when the lowest common denominator is the Chevy/GMC in a towing comparison. I’m really surprised they don’t at least offer better safety features such as adaptive cruise control etc… especially when paying upwards of 70k for a high end version of the truck. Seriously thinking of Ford or RAM as my next big ticket purchase in this area.
I am a fan of GM, since 2003 they have really stepped up their game and styling, but have held onto what separates them from the crowd. I bought a 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT z-71 4×4. It was a beautiful truck, well designed and I never had problems with it. I wanted to step up into a Duramax diesel 2500 HD to lug around a 5th wheel. but my 2 year stint with the GMC taught me several things. 1 the seats are too damned hard, what happened to the soft leather I had in my 04 Silverado, 06 GMC Envoy Denali and 08 Suburban? While the back seats are never a fun place, the GMC’s were horrid, bad position, bad leg room, narrower seats and the biggest crime for living in central Texas… NO REAR AIR VENTS, my son and daughter were always begging for my to direct air to them because they were too hot.
As much as I am a GM man, the Denali did not offer the rear vents either.
I bought a Dodge Laramie Longhorn Megacab 4×4 2500 Diesel.
I guess I am now a Dodge Truck man until GM pulls it’s head out of it’s ass.
I disagree with all of this….it has nothing to do with the usability of a truck! Things that make me nuts are no a/c in back of crew cab (even on my frickin denali), back seats don’t fold down flat which I often need transporting small livestock or feed I don’t want to get wet, mandatory cameras for truck bed – the bed is so high you absolutely must have this to see for hook up and monitoring loads, heads up display – makes it easier to keep eyes on road while hauling, and a nav system more integrated with current conditions like traffic and weather…..the seats in my denali aren’t comfortable for long drives either (my 2004 sierra was way better as a work truck and as a driving truck) ….I was so disappointed in my denali and the cheap cut backs on features (the no a/c in the back really chaps my hide….how do you haul a crew in 100+ degrees for goodness sake….it’s embarrassing that they bake in the back of my ‘fancy’ truck) that even though it hauls a big load nice I don’t know that I’ll get another gmc…..I’ve been eyeballing dodges which makes me sad because I love my duramax and I am eyeballing the escalade instead of getting another Yukon – GMC’s cutbacks are losing a long and faithful customer and I feel like they didn’t think about what a truck is for….working! And I don’t care about the weight of a truck – I like the steel and heavier grade for working….as it is my truck bed has dents from loads – can’t imagine if it weren’t heavier grade. At least they up’d the tow capacity but I am paying top dollar and not getting a top dollar vehicle.
Do as I did, I bought the Dodge with the Megacab, extremely comfortable for all passengers, even 6ft+ men can fit in the back without me needing to bring my seat forward.
The ergonomics are much like GM and more usable forward room than ford, and the seats are more comfortable than either. The rear seat folds two ways, the back onto the bottom seat or completely flat in the mega cab, with both back seats completely flat, I don’t need to use the bed of the truck when shopping at costco.
I’m in the process of trying to get rid of my 2016 Silverado and get a ram. If not a megacab def a crew cab. By far the most room out of any truck
Why no power seats for the passenger side ? What about Express down/up for both driver and passenger sides? My 2004 company Altima had express down/up windows! It seems that the MFG.s love the “package” ordering system. In the old days one could order the vehicle specifically tailored to what they wanted. I believe the first MFG. to offer the capability of ordering options the way new buyers would prefer, will result in increased sales. The new motto should be, ” Order the vehicle you want, the way you want it”. And the practice of offering some options only on higher end models, as opposed to lower end models is just plain discrimination. Why should buyers get stuck with options they don’t like or want?
If Gm would offer a 6.2 Liter with a good sized turbo and keep their cylinder deactivation for mileage you could not keep them in stock. It might not help the CAFE number a lot but they would sell a lot of them to the Raptor and Hemi truck owners. The horsepower would have to exceed the Raptors by 10 to 15 %. Come on GM get back on top let the Raptors and Hemi’s be seen in the rear-view mirror instead of through the windshield.
Lets think logically here…GM, please offer the new 4.5 V6 Diesel option, its larger than the 2.8 and smaller than the 6.2. A perfect size, with 350 – 400 H.P. and I presume it will have anywhere from 450 – 500 lbs/ft of torque? This motor should put out decent mileage. I currently have a 5.3l gas Silverado, and it’s doing about 18 mpg (Imperial gallon). Truck is still new at 4,000 km. The new 4.5 l should easily get 30 – 35 mpg (Imperial). This is what buyers want, a full size truck with exceptional mileage! Oddly enough Diesel fuel in Canada is about 3-5 cents per litre cheaper than regular gas. i believe in the USA its about 20% more for Diesel than regular gas. This just goes to show the conspiracy between oil companies….they don’t want the diesels to become popular! They want more gas sales than diesel Bring out the 4.5 Diesel, have a special discount offer for the new diesel, and just watch the sales go up. Let Ford and Dodge catch up. If Ford is smart, and it looks like they are doing just that, they will offer their new diesel ahead of GM this year, and if it’s around the 4 – 4.5l size, it should sell well. People want high mileage, and reliable long term motors. This will happen with these new 4.0 – 4.5l diesels! And lets have those transmission shifters on the console! Column mounted shifters just don’t cut it. Just look at he competition, the look is so much nicer and much easier to shift when driving! And lastly, what i noticed about my truck is the lack of a comfortable left foot dead peddle to rest my left foot. It’s way too flat now. GM needs to redesign this all important feature. There needs to be a raised 45′ angle foot rest to allow for a comfortable left foot rest! Just about every other vehicle has this…it’s a no-brainer! I can’t believe GM designers missed this!
NO Column shifters are fine. LEAVE them ALONE. Lose storage space putting the shifter on console. not to mention lose the extra seat on the 40/20/40.
I agree. And as for shifter…do like Ford and offer options! Column or console mounted! Let the costumer decide!
My 2016 Yukon Denali has push button start, so at some level they do offer it. What I REALLY want in my next replacement (late 2018) is a console shift / paddle shift set up. Why not offer a “sport” version to the Denali with a few other goodies that are currently ala carte’? Brembo brakes, Borla exhaust, Callaway Supercharger would all be a good combo package along with the console shift / paddle shift. Otherwise it’s a great vehicle.
I never thought I would by a Ford but it’s time. Sold my 2007 tahoe yesterday 437,000 miles runs better and no dought rides better than my 2016 yukon. I can afford any truck I wish, but I want a truck with the latest safty options and I would be willing to pay 70k plus for it , but not an option. All was a chevy/GM man at heart just not in my wallet for a while.
Who ever wrote this article, must have never owned or needed a TRUCK! I agree GM could up their game on some features on their trucks, but I only agree with one of his wants! The rear air would be nice. GM offered the side bed storage box as an option a few years ago on the GMC trucks, it DID NOT SELL! They also offered all wheel steer, it DID NOT SELL! I need a truck, if I want a car I will buy one! I own a Denali GMC and most of the fancy features are more trouble than they are worth! I would much rather have a truck with a split gear rear end, so I could get the benefit of better gas mileage when not towing and great towing when I need it! The new tailgate assist is a winning feature. Most of this writers ideas of what truck owners want is no where near correct!
I have bought a used 2016 chevy silverado with 63000 miles july 2019 and i hate this truck it makes me feel extremely unsafe for 2 reasons the brakes and the transmission both scare me and my family and very unsafe,I have always been a GM fan but i strayed away I bought a ford taurus sho and a dodge ram mega cab,I decided this year to go back to GM because I was fooled by the commercials and lies Maverick Chevrolet in Marshall,Tx..the sales person Ed/Eduardo lied by telling me GM trucks had a power train warranty 6years or 100000 miles..Since this is my only vehicle i got so scared i tried to trade it off to a dodge dealer but since i just bought it my credit score is a 551 even though i have 4 car loans payed off since 2016 cant figuer the 551 score out but thats another story..