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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  Despite problems - still love this truck - 1999 GMC Sierra 1500
  By tlechner - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Overall I really enjoy this truck. However I am worried about when the warranty runs out. I have replaced both power windows motors, drivers side twice. First time was when the truck was only 2-3 months old. Steering box - replaced at about 50K. This truck does move. The tow/haul mode is great.

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  Nice SUV - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By utgmcguy - September 12 - 2:00 am

  Thanks to my grandpa I have this SUV. It has over 125,000 miles on it and still runs great! No leaks or anything. It may be almost 6 years old but it still looks new. The leather seat with heat for all passengers keeps everyone cmofortable.

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  Maybe the Ride with Improve with Time - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By tommygun - September 7 - 2:16 pm

  Traded in 07 GMC Yukon XL. Wanted something to fit in my garage year round -- i.e. a big downsizing move. No need to look for small SUVs - most competing dealers would have lauged me off their lots. Got $1000 for loyalty. 14.2 mpg on first tank. The V6 - 19" chrome wheels make ride way too stiff.

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  my new GMC - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By robyns car - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Thus far, I have been completely satisfied with the performance of my new GMC Yukon XL. Although the gas mileage is a little less than I anticipated, I drive mostly city driving and it isnt off the charts bad. My kids love the space and we have really liked the fact that it is so quiet inside. As a Volvo and Merceds owner, I am used to automobiles that exceed expectations and this one has done just that. If this is what American cards are like now a days... I may rethink my next auto purchase to an American manufactured car.

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  great suv for its time - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By D. OSBORN - September 3 - 4:53 am

  i have a gmc envoy , i am the original owner , bought in Ohio ,assembled in moraine assy with pride...it is 2006 and has been garage kept and i can tell you, ive had no issues with this SUV at all aside from typical maintenance items that has to be replaced

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  Its Great - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Brian Durocher - August 31 - 2:00 am

  This is my second one, and I like it more than the first. I recommend it highly.

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  So So - 2009 GMC Sierra 1500
  By CG - August 30 - 10:00 am

  My only real complaint with this truck is the power/acceleration. I have the 5.3L Crew Cab with 6-speed AT, and unless I just have a lemon, this truck is a dog when it comes to acceleration. I literally get passed by Honda civics and the like with ease. The transmission sometimes feels like it is going to break apart; there are loud clunking noises quite frequently. It seems like the truck drives differently each and every time that I turn it on. I love everything else about the truck, but I just cant get past the very poor performance of the engine/transmission. This is more than likely due to the limitations that GM puts on the engines/transmissions due to the long warranty period.

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  Traded 4.8L Yukon for Denali - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Mr. "C" - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Denali is a lot more responsive than the other Yukons and actually drives better. The 17" Wheels and extra 500lbs in weight gives better separation from the road. The regular Yukes makes a popping sound when steering hard but not with the Denali.

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  Too many problems - 2003 GMC Envoy
  By Loyal GM Owner? - August 27 - 2:00 am

  I was a loyal GM owner, but not sure any more. The truck has been into the dealer 8 times in 2 months for a mysterious electrical problem effecting lights and gauges. Ive had 3 computers and 4 electrical switches placed into the truck. Also, the entire truck has been re-ground 3 times and the rear window leak has been fixed twice. Problems still persist. Goods news is GM is buying the car back. I really like the style of the truck so Im thinking about giving GM another shot, but Im not sure.

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  2004 GMC Yukon Denali(shorty) Red/Tan - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By evans1 - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven EVERY SUV ever. I bought this vehicle because it is in my opinion the best overall combo for Power, Comfort, Ride Quality, Size, Price and Looks, in that order. It tows a 6000+ lb boat with ease, even when I forget to press the trailer tow button. The bad things, in order again are build quality, handling (turns), and repairs.Warranty repair:Steering gearbox(was squeeky) Mine has a faint rattle/vibration/resonation noise coming from somewhere in the driveline at around 23 MPH and 42 MPH. I will let the dealer attempt repair 2 more times, then go to www.lemon law.com