The GMC MultiPro tailgate is a multi-function tailgate offered on the GMC Sierra line of full-size pickup trucks as well as on the GMC Hummer EV.
Minimizing effort and maximizing achievement, MultiPro is both flexible and functional. It combines traditional tailgate functionality with five new positions:
- Tailgate load stop for carrying long items
- Enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions
- A standing workstation
- Easier access to items in the box
- A step entry and egress mode that, when paired with the assist handle, offers both step and seated functionality
Positions
The GMC MultiPro tailgate offers the following six positions.
1. Primary Gate Access
The primary gate is identical to that found in a traditional tailgate. It can be opened using the power release button on the key fob, from inside the truck or from a button on the actual tailgate.
2. Primary Gate Load Stop
The primary gate load stop helps prevent items from sliding out of the box. It requires the primary gate to be open.
3. Foldable Inner Gate For Easy Access
The inner gate folds down for easy access when loading and unloading the box.
4. Full-Width Step
The inner gate folds into a large step for easy entry and exit from the box. It has a maximum weight capacity of 375 pounds (170 kg). An assist handle extends from the driver’s-side of the box, enabling easier entry.
5. Inner Gate Load Stop
The inner gate includes a load stop to help prevent second-tier items from sliding out of the box.
6. Inner Gate Work Surface
Opening the inner gate outward provides a work surface as well as second-tier loading ability.
Built-In Speaker
In addition to the six tailgate positions, the GMC MultiPro also offers a built-in speaker as an official GMC accessory. The Bluetooth-connected speaker is housed in the two outboard sections of the mid-gate, while one of the inside panels provides controls for sound.
Materials
The MultiPro tailgate is built using aluminum.
Operation
The MultiPro tailgate is operated via a touchpad with two buttons, located at the center of the tailgate just above the GMC logo. The top button releases the upper part of the tailgate, while the bottom button releases the entire tailgate.
Operating the tailgate:
- If the tailgate is dropped normally, pulling on the upper portion activates the load stop for longer cargo (Position #5 above).
- While the entire tailgate is down, pressing the top button folds down the upper portion, allowing one to stand even closer to the box itself for easier loading or unloading (Position #3 above).
Additionally, the tailgate can be activated via the key fob.
Downsides
Opting for the MultiPro tailgate means that owners must forego the power-operated tailgate.
Separately, the MultiPro has been criticized for hitting an attached hitch when primary tailgate is opened and the inner gate is dropped.
Origins
As GM Authority has uncovered, MultiPro originated as a result of an internal competition within GM engineers.
“It started from a sort of Shark Tank-style idea pool,” GM engineer, Roger Olle, told GM Authority in an interview. “We were tasked by our chief engineers to come up with an innovative way to address a customer need. Based on the clinics that we ran, we knew that the customer wanted help getting in and out of the vehicle more easily.”
Management seemed to love the idea, but the GMC MultiPro tailgate didn’t begin with the setup that debuted on the 2019 Sierra 1500.
“What we started with was a split tailgate, completely in half. And then it evolved into what you see today, with the extra step coming down,” said Olle.
“We did look at a bunch of different options… we didn’t want to do a barn door because you can’t package it well with a step. We wanted the step to be the first priority, and we wanted to ensure it would perform the same as a standard tailgate. We didn’t want to sacrifice anything in terms of functionality.”
Testing
According to GM, the MultiPro tailgate delivers proven strength and durability, having undergone more testing and validation than any tailgate in GM’s history.
Availability
The MultiPro tailgate was introduced on the 2019 Sierra 1500 as well as on the 2020 Sierra HD (2500HD and 3500HD). It was then expanded to the 2022 GMC Hummer EV pickup.
MultiPro vs. MultiStow
The MultiPro tailgate is an entirely different tailgate from the MultiStow tailgate. While MultiPro is a multi-position tailgate available in the GMC Sierra and GMC Hummer EV Pickup models, MultiStow offer a built-in storage compartment and is offered on the GMC Canyon.
- See complete GMC MultiStow tailgate details
Chevrolet Version
For the 2021 model year, GM’s Chevrolet Silverado 1500 received a version of the GMC MultiPro tailgate, where it’s called Multi-Flex.