2001 GMC Sierra 1500 Review (continued)
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Walkaround

Last year, GMC upgraded horsepower and torque for the 4.8-liter and 5.3-liter V8s. For 2001, the V6 and all three V8s have received further refinements, enhancing economy and durability while reducing maintenance requirements. But you can bet that the V8s will be sold in much higher volumes than the V6s.

Similarly, while a five-speed manual is available in basic SLs, we expect the automatic option will be far more popular. The 4L60 and 4L65 four-speed automatics feature a delayed upshift when switched into the tow/haul mode, improving performance while helping the gearbox keep its cool.

All 2WD models with V8s and automatic transmissions can now be ordered with electronic traction assist.

Optional Autotrac four-wheel-drive combines a conventional, truck-style two-speed transfer case with electronic controls. This system allows the driver to lock the axle speeds together in low range for maximum off-road traction; or to select an automatic mode that sends power to the wheels with the best grip whenever the system detects wheel slip.

All Sierras are built on the stiffest and lightest truck frame General Motors has ever produced. The frame rails are hydroformed, a process that uses high-pressure hydraulics to shape steel. Tubular crossmembers and roll-formed mid-rails increase rigidity further. This stiff structure enhances handling and ride quality immensely, while improving crashworthiness. Brakes are large, heavy-duty discs on all four corners; ABS is standard on all models.

Interior Features

The GMC Sierra's interior is one of the most inviting and comfortable in the pickup business. The door openings are the largest in the industry, and the cab is the roomiest. The instrument package comprises a large speedometer and tachometer flanked by four smaller gauges. All use pleasant graphics in white on black. The sound system control panel is located above the climate controls. The climate control system uses a rotary dial layout that works perfectly. There are three 12-volt outlets at the bottom center of the dash for radar detectors, cellular telephones, laptop computers, and other accessories. The electric door locks (standard on SLE and SLT) are programmable.

By the summer of 2001, SLT models will have the GM OnStar satellite-based communications and security system; expect a price increase of $340 when that happens.

The maximum-zoot C3 comes with OnStar, tone-on-tone leather, extra sound deadening, a premium audio system with steering-wheel controls for the driver and separate controls for rear-seat passengers, a unique console with a driver information center (we used to call it a trip computer) and other exclusive amenities.

Our SLE extended cab was equipped with optional heated bucket seats that provided good support in hard corners. A lockable floor console (standard on SLT, optional on extended-cab SLE) is large enough to hold a picnic lunch for a family of four; it comes with a reversible, removable cup holder tray and a storage nook in front of the lid. Air-conditioning outlets and a set of drop-down cup holders are built in for rear-seat passengers. A compass is incorporated into the SLE's overhead console, along with three storage areas for sunglasses, garage door opener, and small items. The door trim is a nice combination of vinyl panels and dotted velour that is soft and warm to the touch.

We were pleasantly surprised when we climbed through a reverse-opening rear door and found that the rear seat in the extended cab is reasonably comfortable. When cargo capacity is more important than hauling passengers, the entire rear seat assembly can be loosened from the floor with a wrench and removed through one of the side doors.