Overview & Reviews

GMC is a division of General Motors that focuses on producing SUVs, trucks and vans. Though GMC's vehicles are mechanically similar to related Chevrolet products, they are typically differentiated by unique features, trim levels and minor styling tweaks. The automaker's full-size pickups and SUVs are the most compelling offerings in its lineup; in many cases, its products in these categories are class-leading.

The marque's roots lie in the Rapid Motor Vehicle Company, a truck manufacturer that was founded by Max Grabowski in 1902. The outfit was purchased by General Motors in 1909 with the intention of having it serve as a division dedicated to building tough and capable trucks. The brand came to be known as GMC Truck; early models include the T16 and T20. Most of the manufacturer's trucks were very utilitarian in nature and functioned as dump trucks, fire trucks and military vehicles. GMC Truck's 3/4-ton Model 16 saw duty in World War I, serving mostly as a battlefield ambulance.

Sales continued to climb in the 1920s. After switching to a six-cylinder Buick-built motor, GMC Truck's 1- and 2-ton trucks earned the distinction of being the fastest in their classes. By the '30s, the line had grown to include everything from half-ton pickups to 10-ton trucks and buses. New models included the popular 1936 Suburban, which was essentially a truck-based station wagon that paired a truck's utility with a car's creature comforts.

World War II was a time of expansion for GMC Truck, thanks to its acquisition of Yellow Truck & Coach. Once again, the automaker's vehicles were tapped for wartime duty. New models like the Jimmy and the DUKW (nicknamed the Duck) were widely used by American troops.

Postwar, GMC Truck models became more consumer-oriented, and many were revamped to offer styling that more closely resembled passenger cars. The 1950s and '60s witnessed an upswing in sales, thanks to the popularity of recreational vehicles like GMC-based motor homes and pickup campers. The Jimmy name was revived and assigned to the brand's first ever sport-utility vehicle in 1970. That decade and the next saw a continued rise in the brand's popularity. The early '90s saw the brief appearance of the Syclone and Typhoon. The former was a small street pickup that burned up the asphalt with its turbocharged V6 and all-wheel drive. The latter was essentially a two-door SUV based on the same platform. Either one of these oddball speedsters could rip through a quarter-mile in around 14 seconds flat, making them among the quickest vehicles ever offered by General Motors. Also, by this time, GMC Truck had trimmed its moniker; the brand is now known simply as GMC.

In the past few decades, GM has consolidated its products and GMC's trucks have become less individualistic as a result. Today, most of GMC's vehicles are virtually identical to those sold by Chevrolet. The main differences lie in minor features and design tweaks that give GMC's offerings a more upscale image.

User Reviews:

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  2006 Envoy Denali - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Rathead - January 20 - 8:25 am

  Quiet, fast, and smooth, and good fuel mileage. I have no complaints. This vehicle is so much better than any other competitors, and I expect reliability to be better as well.

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  Love it - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By El Paso - January 15 - 10:39 pm

  Test drove Ford Expedition, Explorer, Edge along with testing Nissan, Toyota among others. GMC Envoy Denali had the best comfort, get up and go, and look of all the rest. I chose the CD changer and kids love the entertainment system. XM satellite also complements vehicle. Drives nice and quiet.

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  Yukon SLT2 - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By T. BEND - January 12 - 12:46 am

  We now have over 3,000 miles after 3 weeks and really enjoying the ride. Took a Trip from S. Louisiana to Atlanta and got 18.5 MPG even with the rains and traveling 70-75 mph. The 5.3 V8 with the 3.42 rear end helps with the economy.

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  best truck ive ever owned - 1999 GMC Sierra 1500
  By pilaf - January 8 - 3:30 am

  i have never owned a better truck the throttle is firm and reassuring ride quality is great its top speed might only be 98 mph but it gets up the really fast if ferrari made a truck the gmc sierra would be it power and fuel economy in one package strong responsive steering makes it easy to drive this truck likes to cruise@about 90 mph takes corners like an f1 race car!!!!

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By kws51359 - January 5 - 12:03 am

  Since I purchased this vehicle it has totally changed my opinion of GM products. This is a very comfortable and smooth riding vehicle

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  05 GMC SLT Crew Cab - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Bob - January 1 - 7:06 pm

  I am handicapped and this truck is very easy for me to operate. Everything is in clear reach, no need for any modifications. My wife, grand- daughter and I took a trip from Texas to Florida after buying the truck with no issues. Gas mileage is fantastic.

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  Great Envoy - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Rick - January 1 - 4:00 pm

  We were considering a BMW or Lexus until we drove the Envoy. It is the most soundproof vehicle Ive ever been in. The power train is great, the ride is great, the fuel econcony is great and it just looks good. I would most certainly buy another one.

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  Great Vehicle - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Thomas A Stevenson - December 28 - 12:32 pm

  We have a need for a vehicle capable of towing a travel trailer, and carrying cargo as well as people. The vehicle will also be used for deer and elk hunting, as well trips to the airport with passengers and luggage. This new Yukon XL SLT, fills the bill.

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  Fun Trailering - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Desert Bum - December 28 - 10:00 am

  allways wanted a four door auto, but never expected to get it in a truck.

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  Loving it! - 2007 GMC Envoy
  By Patricks Denali - December 28 - 3:29 am

  I absolutely love driving this vehicle. That V8 w/302 horses under the hood ensures your entry onto the highway is a seamless transition. The ride is extremely comfortable and quiet. It rides just as smooth as my 2006 Lexus GS300 AWD! This is a well built vehicle with nice amenities. The Nav system does eliminate the 6 disc CD, however, I never listen to CDs in the car. I listen to my XM satellite radio. My wife and I test drove all the competitors product and decided to purchase the Denali. What a great decision!