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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  The good and the bad. - 2005 GMC Sierra 2500HD
  By Ken - March 26 - 7:20 am

  Purchased this truck on 5/26/05. Had it only three days and had to put it in the shop for automatic transmission repair. It was in the shop for four days. First gear went bad after only 500 miles. It doesnt turn as close as my old Yukon but it is a larger vehicle. The engine is powerful. I cant even feel my trailer. I like the looks. For an XLT it doesnt have some of the options I thought it would have. ie. lumbar seat, rear A/C. I really like the truck. Im just disappointed with the transmission problem and the lask of service from the dealer. Im just waiting for something else to break. It also is a little bumpy. Maybe thats normal.

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  NICEST PICK-UP OUT THERE - 2001 GMC Sonoma
  By Eric :) - March 25 - 6:09 pm

  My Sonoma is forest green and i have had many compliments since i have owned it. It drives pretty smooth, even with the mudding tires, and overall never had any problems out of it. I like how it has the sleek sporty look to it also.

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  Great Truck, but... - 2008 GMC Yukon XL
  By Claudia - March 25 - 4:00 pm

  I love my truck. Lots of room and a great riding experience. My only complaint is that it only has seating for 6 (two on each row). We asked if we can purchase a solid row for the back, but after much discussion with the dealership they said it was not an option. Also, we just backed into a BMW and our bumper has a HUGE dent in the back and the BMW only had a scratch. How is that possible? Now Im wondering how dependable the bumber will be in a serious accident.

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  Complete Money Pit - 1998 GMC Jimmy
  By spartan268 - March 25 - 3:30 pm

  My parents bought me this car when I turned 16, they got it for about $3000. Unfortunately, they didnt take the time to make sure everything was in good shape. Over the past 2.5 years Ive replaced: Trans, a/c condenser, cat converter, front hub assmebly, radiator, exhaust, battery (twice), several computer chips, and now my fuel pump just died. Im pretty sure theres more, but I cant even remember. Id also expect a small SUV to get a little better mileage. By now, I could have bought 3 of these with the price of repairs - this thing is such a headache and a money pit, I cant wait to get rid of it. This will hands down be the last GM I ever buy.

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  Love my Baby - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By LOVE MY BABY - March 25 - 1:10 pm

  My baby runs in 4 and 8cylinders. I fill so secure in it beeing a 5 4 pettite female. It runs smoth and I love my Yukon 2007. I also have space for all my family.

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  Best vehicle I have ever owned - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By cougerbuff - March 23 - 7:56 pm

  Just got the loaded up model, just an awesome vehicle, the lazy transmission is the only drawback to this vehicle. Learning to live with it in light of getting better gas mileage than the old pig Yukon I drove. Really nice fit and finish, GM really got this one right. Bought the carbon black and cant stop opening the door to the garage to look at it. Also found myself taking rides for no reason. Love the dash at night, looks european (audi like). Cool ride and glad I got one as that was a chore in itself.

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  After 1 month some observations - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By kvilleboy - March 23 - 11:50 am

  Offers comfort, power, utility, & style. Seats are comfortable & it is easy to get into and out of. Bose sound system is great. Air suspension is very smooth & bumps are well damped. Avg 18-19 mpg. When started cold, theres a slight hesitation /flat spot on acceleration, that goes away quickly. Passenger cabin heats more quickly in morning. Quality control at GM is better than it used to be, but they still have a lot to learn.

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  Great Rental - 2009 GMC Acadia
  By Rental Man - March 22 - 5:19 pm

  I rented a GMC Acadia this past week from Alamo - and ended up really enjoying this vehicle. We own a 07 Acura MDX and an 04 Sienna, and this SUV/crossover fell right in between on size, comfort, performance and mileage. From a size perspective, this car had more room with the seats folded down than our MDX. In terms of comfort, the leather heated seats, quad chairs and smooth ride were appreciated by the entire family. Performance-wise - its not as tight a car as the MDX,but it remains a competent highway and city cruiser. . Mileage was impressive, and its great to fill up on regular gas for a change. Would I buy this car -maybe - but would like to take the Buick Enclave first.

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  Fine Fun - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Barbielowrider - March 22 - 11:38 am

  I was looking for something to replace my Grand Cherokee Ltd. I wanted all the bells and whistles, and plenty of power to boot. Believe me, I looked at EVERYTHING! I eagerly decided on this 06 Envoy Denali. The looks had me from across the lot. I test drove it, and then my husband. We were immediately impressed. Interior to die for, comfort plus.Every option I could hope for. Rides smooth as can be. So we really, really test cars. Straight aways, up and down hills, in and out of town, highway. I was so impressed by the power. Its a pavement eater! 300 HP, and switches to 4 cyl. for HWY cruising(gas saver) and can tow up to 6500 lbs. Looking for a mid-size SUV? This ones for you!!!!!

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  GMC CrewCab 4WD SLT with 8.1L /Allison - 2003 GMC Sierra 2500HD
  By Gilbert L. - March 22 - 10:00 am

  600 miles and drive-by-wire trottle body left me stranded. Immediately after the dealership replaced with new trottle body, the 4WD Transfer Case Control Module misteriuosly went bad (RE: Service Bullitin Rel. 02/2003). Very poor Service Dept. at dealership. I had very bad experience with unscrupulous mechanic who falsely claimed work that was not performed. Suspension springs incorrectly installed by manufacturer.