2019 GMC Sierra 1500: This Is It
79Sponsored Links
This is the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. Revealed today at a special event in Detroit, the Sierra is all-new for the 2019 model year and represents the fourth generation of the Sierra nameplate. The all-new pickup truck launches bold design and segment-leading technologies.
The Sierra models GMC unveiled today are the high-end Sierra SLT and Sierra Denali. The brand states that more details and information about other Sierra models will be released closer to the start of production in the fall of 2018.
“GMC ignited the premium truck segment 17 years ago with the original launch of the Sierra Denali,” said 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 heritage of the GMC brand is rooted in full-size trucks, of which the Sierra is our cornerstone, with our SLT and Denali models contributing 87 percent of our total crew cab sales,” Aldred said. “The next generation Sierra caters to these unique customers who demand a premium, innovative truck that supports their professional and personal passions.”
Exterior
The 2019 Sierra Denali introduces a new GMC design language. The truck is taller and features a more confident stance and more powerful proportions.
At the front, the 2019 GMC Sierra shows refinement and strength through a larger, more-dominant upright grille, a taller hood, as well as bolder and more pronounced C-shaped lighting elements that have become a GMC signature.
The 2019 GMC Sierra is larger than its K2 platform predecessor in virtually every dimension. The larger grille and dramatic lighting underscore its dominant stance. The wheels are pushed closer to the corners and wear larger diameter tires. The 2019 Sierra Denali features available 22-inch Ultra Bright aluminum wheels while the 2019 Sierra SLT offers its own unique 22-inch dark aluminum wheels finished with chrome accents.
Distinctive details are abound. A new chrome grille with a sharp, precise dimensions pattern exemplifies truck’s attention to detail.
“The next generation Sierra Denali has a deliberate, commanding presence,” said Matt Noone, director of design, GMC Exteriors. “Its unmistakable design embodies the essence of GMC, while advancing the brand’s core styling elements — rooted in inherent capability — with a new expression of its signature cues.”
A new badge on the front fender shows the world that your 2019 Sierra is powered by a 6.2L V-8 engine, though it’s unclear whether other models – such as those powered by “lesser” engines – will get a similar treatment.
At the rear, dual exhaust becomes a first for the Sierra.
Interior
The interior of the 2019 GMC Sierra delivers a more specious, driver-centric cabin. In fact, it tops the segment with best-in-class front headroom and legroom.
The driver is at the center of the experience, which starts with a higher seating position that offers a confident view from behind the wheel. Optimized ergonomics deliver an easy, intuitive interaction with the vehicle’s technologies, such as the all-new Trailering App and segment-first Head-Up Display.
Since space and storage is vital to truck customers, the 2019 GMC Sierra’s crew cab has nearly three inches of additional rear-seat legroom compared to the outgoing model.
Meanwhile, the outboard rear seat backs open to reveal rectangular storage spaces. Like on the 2019 Silverado, they are large enough for storing tablets or laptops, tie-down cords, umbrellas or other important accessories.
Tailgate
The all-new 2019 GMC Sierra introduces a GMC exclusive, industry-first MultiPro Tailgate. It is the segment’s most innovative tailgate ever.
Standard on SLT and Denali models, the MultiPro Tailgate features six unique functions and positions, offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation mode and easier access to items in the box.
The MultiPro Tailgate 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 (170 kg). Ease of use is enhanced with two buttons on the tailgate handle that allow convenient inner gate release.
This multifunctional tailgate offers proven strength and durability. In fact, GMC says that the MultiPro Tailgate has undergone more testing and validation than any tailgate in GM’s history. Sierra is the first and only truck to offer the MultiPro Tailgate, providing premium truck customers the ultimate flexibility.
Boxes
The 2019 GMC Sierra will offer two types of cargo boxes.
The “standard” version, which continues to be made of roll-formed, high-strength steel but with a revised alloy that offers 50 percent more strength than the outgoing model. The box also offers best-in-class cargo volume – 63 cubic feet (1,784 liters) on the short box, as well as additional tie-downs and a new, available 110-volt power outlet.
Meanwhile, the 2019 Sierra Denali will offer an available GMC exclusive and industry-first carbon fiber box. Labeled as the CarbonPro, the box was developed to increase durability, efficiency and functionality of the truck. It replaces the standard steel inner panels and floor with a lightweight, purpose-designed carbon fiber composite that offers best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance, making it the most durable pickup box in the segment.
Set to become available later in the model year, the new CarbonPro box is 62 pounds (28 kg) lighter than the steel version.
“In 116 years of making GMC pickup trucks, our industry-first carbon fiber box is the toughest and most durable pickup box we have ever made,” Aldred said.
Materials
The carbon “CarbonPro” box is just one example of the strategic use of materials in engineering the 2019 GMC Sierra.
The strategy also incorporates using aluminum for the swing panels, including the doors, hood and tailgate, while relying on steel for the fenders, roof and standard cargo box to shave up to 360 pounds (163 kg) from the Sierra compared today’s model.
Trailering System
The 2019 GMC Sierra delivers a more confident towing experience thanks to GMC’s new ProGrade Trailering System. Standard on Sierra Denali and SLT, the trailering system 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 Apple iOS and Google Android smartphones. The feature offers great convenience when outside the truck or trailer.
The all-new Sierra also offers Hitch Guidance with Hitch View and Auto Electric Park Brake to help with perfect positioning when hitching. The available side view cameras and a trailer-mounted HD camera provide additional assistance when driving down the road or in reverse. What’s more exclusive Trailer Theft Detection enables owners to receive text and mobile alerts from OnStar when the trailer has been detached from the truck without permission.
Performance
The 2019 GMC Sierra will offer new versions of the proven 6.2L and 5.3L V-8 engines while introducing the all-new 3.0L Duramax inline-six turbo-diesel engine. The 6.2L and 3.0L engines will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The 5.3L and 6.2L engines feature stop/start technology and new Dynamic Fuel Management, which enables the engine to operate on one to eight cylinders, depending on load/demand, to optimize power and efficiency. Meanwhile, the new Duramax diesel builds on GMC’s expertise with turbo-diesels offered in Sierra HD and Canyon models.
Though not confirmed, we believe that at least two other engines will be announced later.
Sierra Denali
The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali returns as the flagship of the Sierra family, affirming its position as the most premium Sierra ever with segment-leading technologies and exclusive features. It is defined by powerful proportions and distinctive Denali design traits, as well as a driver-focused cabin that features premium materials, improved interior space and innovative storage solutions.
Segment-leading technologies and exclusive Denali-exclusive features include:
- Exterior:
- MultiPro Tailgate – the most innovative pickup tailgate ever, with six unique functions and positions offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation and easier access to items in the box. The MultiPro Gate is a GMC Exclusive and as well as an industry first.
- Carbon Fiber Pickup Box branded CarbonPro, which was developed to increase durability, efficiency and functionality while offering best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance, making it the most durable pickup box in the segment. The CarbonPro is also a GMC Exclusive and is also an industry first.
- All-new ProGrade Trailering System with Trailering App, which provides a comprehensive connected suite of trailering technology that brings more confidence to the towing experience than ever before.
- Advanced lighting technology that distinguishes the Sierra Denali from every other truck on the road. GMC’s front lighting signature is conveyed through a prominent “light blade” that delivers uniform LED illumination for the daytime running lamps. LEDs are also used for the headlamps, taillamps, fog lamps and other illuminative elements, with lenses constructed from durable material with an almost crystalline quality.
- 22-inch Ultra-Bright aluminum wheels
- A new DENALI nemeplate on the tailgate below the GMC badge, expressed in a new block-style typeface that echoes the truck’s strong proportions. The new Denali badge is located below the signature GMC identification.
- Interior:
- Exclusive premium leather-appointed seats, which have a distinctive, large-pebbled grain with a contrasting stitch pattern that is both premium in appearance and touch without sacrificing durability
- Authentic open-pore wood trim evocative of hand-planed furniture
- Dark-finished decor
- A multi-color Head-Up Display (HUD) that projects key vehicle data on the windshield in a 3×7-inch display to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. The display is customizable and is a segment first.
- Rear Camera Mirror, which offers an optimized view of what is behind the vehicle while driving, helping overcome common visual obstructions like occupants and cargo. It uses a dual-function interior mirror on the inside and an advanced camera mounted at the rear of the vehicle. The Sierra uses a next-generation version of the system, which features a higher resolution camera and display, as well as the ability to tilt or zoom the view. The Rear Camera Mirror is a segment first.
- A new, dynamic and advanced GMC infotainment system with an 8-inch diagonal screen and standard navigation delivers a smartphone-like experience with an intuitive interface, faster response and improved voice recognition.
- Surround Vision, which offers a bird’s-eye view of the truck. The feature displays an overhead image on the infotainment screen, helping the driver detect potential obstacles when backing up, including when trailering.
- Technologies:
- Full suite of advanced safety features, including Side Blind Zone Alert, Pedestrian Detection and Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking
- Exclusive chassis technologies such as Adaptive Ride Control. Designed to provide premium driving refinement with exceptional responsiveness, Adaptive Ride Control employs sophisticated sensors to monitor road conditions and chassis responses in real time, enabling adjustments to active dampers every 2 milliseconds.
The Launch
The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali and SLT are scheduled to go on sale in the fall of 2018. GMC stated that it will release additional details closer to the start of production.
I like what I am seeing . That front end looks aggressive , kind of an ” In your face ” design .
Also I like that GMC didn’t follow in Chevy’s footstep by giving the tailgate the same treatment with the name pressed into the sheetmetal .
Just read an article that said GMC is making more money for the Corporation than Cadillac and with a model like this new 2019 Sierra there is no reason that should stop .
I like this much better than Silverado , I don’t think they went far enough in their design . They kind of played it too safe .
But I am a GMC guy anyway so that probably has alot to do with it .
This is definitely going on my Spring shopping list , an awesome truck .
The truth is they did it just right. Gave enough new to upgrade but not go so far to alienate present owners.
Truck owners generally are not into radical change.
They have put the money spent here to good use. They hav3 fixed much of what was wrong and carried over what was right.
Some get crazy with expectations but the truth is GM had a very useful and functional interior. If it ain’t,t broke don’t fix it.
2 inches on the screen is not going to make it work better. The knobs and layout work well. The menus are great on the dash now you also get HUD. The seats appear ad good as they were and they kept a shifter. Anyone plowing or towing knows it is better than a lame knob.
I wonder if he will offer the bed storage like Chevy. If not I am sure the will fit.
I have been driving GMC sine the 70’s and I love this truck.
I would like to see the All Terrain.
Note the carbon bed is sending a strong signal for GM. This shows the now have the ability to produce large parts in molded carbon form and Lower cost and less labor.
This means this is just a beginning of expanded use of carbon. Carbon is cheap strong and lite but the mfg process is time consuming. Molded can cut hours to mind cutting cost. The possibilities are endless for what we may see.
In the future many will point to this truck and say this is were mass produced carbon started.
My thoughts exactly in regards to the molded carbon composite. Floor pans, interior door panels (piece the window regulator and motor is mounted to), the window regulator arms themselves, running boards, non structural mounts and brackets, etc.
Yo dawg, we heard you like tailgates so we put a tailgate on your tailgate.
Looks great, I was hoping for a larger screen on the Denali since the new Rams have those mega-screens but tbh the functionality of a 7-8inch screen version 10-12 is zilch so it really isn’t an issue.
versus* not version.
/r/comedycemetery
Pretty unique tailgate. various cargo holding abilities, work bench, integrated step, easier access to bed.
What an amazing looking truck. Too bad the interior is booooooring. GM should be and is better than that.
Exterior looks amazing though. Great job GM/GMC
I do applaud GMC for using authentic materials on the interior.
I guarantee GM already has CAD drawings on the 2020 interior with a larger screen. Ram took the wind out of their sails on that front.
Its obvious GM invested in a number of other areas besides the interior, which are AWESOME! IMO, the truck market will love the tailgate, fiber glass bed and towing tech!
why, so you can look at the screan instead of the road???
Look, we’ve found the last 1991 Dodge Shadow owner………
GMC really done good on the heels of a report of them luring Benz/BMW buyers. Best yet the Sierra HD nor new Yukon isn’t out yet, even a new Savanna might be a surprise with the RV crowd.
For a wish list ill add a return of an Canyon-Based Cyclone with the ATS-V ttv6 and an Alpha based GMC Sprint
If a person picks one truck over the other because it has a 2 inch bigger screen then that person is a moron!
Don’t you people see what the competition is doing with their trucks? They making you pay attention to the interior because the rest of the truck is not as good and the GM twins!
It’s smoke and mirrors! It’s just like going to a magic show. Pay attention over here so you don’t see this over there!
You people are fools!
19’Ram is still the best looking truck. The screen is too small.
Agreed.
The screen is bigger in the Ram because it is used to do more things… like replacing some of the tactile controls (knobs/buttons). The GM trucks didn’t replace traditional controls with soft buttons on the screen, thereby the screen doesn’t need to be as large as in the Ram.
And I have a feeling that actual owners of the Ram will not really like using the touch screen for everything. The screen demos really well in a perfect scenario, but probably performs much worse in real life situations (cold out, gloves on, construction gloves on, dirty hands, etc.).
The RAM still has hard buttons running along the sides of the 12″ UConnect.
That’s been my thinking all along. Even the current Rams, like all FCA products have too many functions that are only accessible through the touch screen (ie heated seats), which requires you to search through menus instead of simply just pressing a button. My dad’s 2013 F-150 is like that too and I find it very frustrating.
The interior isn’t as flashy as in high-end Rams and F-150s, but in terms of overall quality and materials, it does look like GMC stepped up to the plate.
Can you say Cue?
The knobs are much better in a truck vs touch screens.
I don’t think that GM needed to follow Ram in the 12 inch Infotainment screen size but I still think that it is inexcusable for GM not to of used the 10 inch screen from the Bolt. And to be honest it seems like the upcoming Blazer is sporting that 10 inch screen. So if I can get one in a 40K CUV but my 70K High Country is saddled with an 8 inch screen, that is something the competitors can use against you. You and I and everyone here realize that not all truck buyers are “Truck Buyers” people purchase trucks in today’s market for so many different reasons. I think GM missed the boat on only a few things which all of them are interior based.
1. No soft touch upper dash in the Silverado not even in the High Country
2. Should’ve offered the 8 inch as standard and the 10 inch Infotainment as an option
3. Lack of a different more modern way of shifting gears instead of that 1940’s column shifter
4. Lack of Panoramic Sunroof as all of it’s main competitors offer
5. Bland Interior design
Now as far as capability, exterior design, exterior materials, bed size, etc is best in class in my opinion. We all need to wait for all the powertrain info but nobody has the legendary 6.2 and the inline 6 Diesel engine sounds extremely promising.
I agree with your points….except number 3. I prefer proven traditional gear shift selectors, especially on trucks, such as in GM and Ford trucks. It’s one thing I don’t particularly like about the RAM and certainly do NOT think GM’s new push button shift selector would be right for a truck.
I do think a console mounted rotary shift selector as in new Expedition is great there, and would also be nice in the Tahoe! As would IRS.
My point was to offer choices. The column shifter is fine for some buyers but some higher tech individuals do not like them. My friend seriously chose not to get a 90K Escalade simply b/c he could not stand the column shifter at all.
Agreed! Which is why I went on to point to Expeditions new rotary console mounted gear selector. I also like that Ford offers both column and console mounted gear selector.
Yes, but they still take up space in the console. Either the dash mounted or column shifter save space.
But not everyone wants more space. Some people want a console mounted gear selector, and in a $60,000+ vehicle we should have that choice optionally.
1. no soft touch upper dash–that is intentional, in a truck you want easy to clean and soft touch is always harder to clean.
2. optional 10 ” screen would’ve meant different dash/trim pieces and that’s more expensive and more complicated on the line
3. people like the column shifter and it works very well, and gives you more space in the console, and enables a step through/middle seat option which people really like too.
4. Yes, they could’ve offered it, but it probably didn’t rank very high in the focus groups as a priority. If it did, they would have done it.
5. That’s subjective, some feel it is utilitarian and easy to use with gloves/dirty hands.
Ram grill looks like an older model GMC
19 ram looks like the same truck as the 18 but upgraded headlights. Had they not offered a big screen there would be nothing significant about it.
It’s a lame duck.
Don’t forget about the increased leg room or space in the back seats. They recline and also have the USB-C ports without needing adapters. Pano roofs, different color schemes, ramboxes, adjustable-height suspension, instant torque electric motor, electric running boards, heated and ventilated seats even for the rear seats.
I am interested in the Sierra as the overall length is shorter, even with the standard bed than competitors, making it easier to park in the garage. I wish that GM would bring back the Avalanche/Escalade EXT twins.
The exterior design is more beautiful in the Sierra but the interior is MUCH MORE ATTRACTIVE in RAM
I love the exterior of the new Sierra. It’s a home run, but I’m still stuck on the underwhelming interior.
I like it. I would still buy a Silverado, but I really like the looks of this truck. It screams GMC! Well done.
Did they talk about trims at all?
Doesnt sound like engine specs were announce. Friggin typical of GM. Can’t release a model without doing 25 reveals.
The trucks are still 6 months away from hitting showrooms. Way to early to show all your cards. Just be patient. Plenty more to come.
Exactly. More “reveals” = more press.
Did Ford? Did Dodge? If Toyota ever released a new Tundra they wouldn’t either. GM has a history of dragging $hit out. Remember the return of the Camaro? The Volt? Dragged the release on and on until anticipation and initial interest was faded.
Not the same thing. Here it is to keep media up. Back then it was to buy time till they could get the money to put the new model out and try to get stock prices up.
Then the lead time was years today it is 6 months or less.
What about the 2019 Ram and F150?
The Ram was shown at Detroit January and will be in the dealers at the same time as the Chevy.
The Aluminum Ford January and sales September.
they still unveiled new trucks with specs
As much as I hate the Center IP, I love the new HUD, I love the new Denali instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and I love the new switchgear to the left of the steering wheel.
Does Ford still offer that wimpy step and handrail for their tailgate?
Doesn’t matter. This looks a hell of a lot better executed.
It really does. GM has taken all options away with this and the bumper step.
Have you seen new Ram’s tailgate step? LOL. Spring loaded cowbell.
The tailgate looks to be the best anyone is offering. Kudos for that.
The Ram screen is essentially double the size of the Sierra, so IMO, it’s a big deal. GM lagging behind significantly in that regard. In this day and age it makes no sense, but the HUD looks to be a winner.
And the miniature sunroof GMC/Chevy offer vs. the panoramic versions available on the Ram and Ford trucks is a huge shortcoming for this soon-to-be truck buyer. Puzzled by what GM is doing there.
Beautiful truck, will be interesting to see what differentiation they will offer. I’m not a fan of the chrome every where style, looks old man-ish to me. Hope they offer SLT versions that are loaded but have body color matched grille, bumpers, etc and/or blacked out versions.
Great looking truck, but still some unanswered questions and disappointments.
AWESOME truck. The profile hood is much better than the Silverado, which looks tall and short.
I still don’t like the interior. It’s a step behind F-Series and RAM in design, imo.
At last, I’m a critic of that GM strategy of downgrade Silverado to favour Sierra. I hope Silverado gets a little more attention to details.
I agree with your comments TruckT. The grade of leather here looks better than Silverado LTZ or even High Country too.
Glad it still has a shift lever instead of some silly dial. Hopefully there is a simple way to disable the stop/start feature for those of us that are annoyed by it.
I love the exterior, but the interior is a nightmare and a disappointment. I was hoping for more differentiation between the Sierra and the Silverado- not to mention that their brand new interior is already sub par to their competition. I’ve been a GM person all of my life. My grandfather was an engineer for GM. However, I’m throwing in the towel. The RAM is heads and shoulders the better truck. I’ll be switching brands with my next purchase this summer.
Sub par? So you have sat in the new trucks? Awesome, let us know how the materials are to the touch because you can’t certainly tell from a picture which is the most important part.
Sounds like you want a car, not a truck. No mention of the improved truck qualities which is what a truck is designed for, just crying it doesn’t have a car like interior that your German luxury car has which is what you really should be driving/buying. It is a truck designed interior and works great, big buttons, switches and toggles that is well laid out and improved upon from the previous gen.
Go sit in one. The 19 Silverado had a nicer interior than the Ram Limited I sat in. Material quality is far higher here than the Ram. The Ram was embarrassingly gawdy and average quality inside.
I thought the chromed rotary climate controls looks cheap, but at least it’s sparkly.
mikey i hope you like dealing with a rust bucket
Now get to work and design a Yukon Denali WITHOUT a GD 3rd row seat for 2019 & get the floor down where it belongs.
That’s a looker. What’s the entry level model gonna cost with 3.0L diesel?
The design is a home run. The carbon fiber inside the bed-only is smart – no paint/finish issues on the exterior, incredible durability in the bed. Tailgate is light years ahead of competition. Good power, torque and fuel economy numbers from the 6.2 and 3.0 make the home run into a grand slam.
Cough it up folks, you know the beasts will be 5-10K more without getting anything more. The way GM brags about truck profits I’m insulted that they’re saying “we ripped you off” to your face.
1. you will get a better ride with the new platform,
2. an increase in what you can store
3. a big performance increase with the new motor
4. a bed that will NEVER dent or rust and will look like new 5-8 years latter
5, more profit margins mean more space for incentives down the road, You should be able to get this truck for 45k. if you play your cards right. If you pay 65k or higher your an idiot
Only an idiot would think a company builds vehicles non profit.
GM also has shown how the have cut cost and make more money with better engineering and cost consideration to material by using a mix.
Ford went all aluminum and now is paying the price literally with higher cost of Aluminum now. They can not raise the price and remain competitive and now are not making profit as they should be. Hence stock that is near $10 a share while GM is more than 3 times that and trying to improve it.
Good looking truck. Great exterior design, and lighting. Like the tailgate, wonder when they will make it hands free? Also wonder if you can turn on cargo light from rear? Can’t wait for the HD. Can’t wait to see it in person.
Rust usually occurs at the ends of panels, around the wheel wells, bottom of the tailgate, etc, maybe someday these areas could be made from materials that would not rust. The cost of making the whole quarter panel out of aluminum or carbon fiber would be expensive, maybe just the ends could somehow be fused with what is used today, now that would be great for the customer. I own a 1961 vehicle that has the hood, doors and trunk lid made from aluminum, I wonder why that is not the case today ?