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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  Great all-around truck! - 2006 GMC Canyon
  By Jim - March 22 - 8:18 pm

  First Pickup Ive owned and I find it to be not only a very useful vehicle, but very enjoyable to drive., whether a long or short trip, very comfortable. I have the Inline fuel-injected 5-Cyl. and its got excellent power and smooth performance. The gas mileage is a pleasant surprise with this engine too! All Black, and equipped with the "Off- Road" package, plus 4-wheel drive, she handles like a dream, and goes just about anywhere, in all types of terrain and weather conditions. GMC should be very proud of this truck, because its a definite winner!!!!

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  WATCH OUT IMPORTS - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Rich - March 22 - 7:23 pm

  I swore off American made vehicles when I sold my Expedition last year. I am now eating my words and believe the imports need to take serious notice. The GM giant has woken and produced a superior vehicle that could be mistaken for a much higher quality/priced luxury import. ANYONE looking for a SUV needs to put the 07 Yukon at the TOP of their list, PERIOD!

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  Love my new truck - 2007 GMC Sierra 1500
  By GMC Sierra buyer - March 17 - 11:03 am

  I looked at the F150, Titan, and Tundra.The GM trucks were easily the best, and of those two the GMC looks better. I rated my truck a 10 in every category except for fuel economy. I get around 18mpg mixed with the 5.3L 4x4 extended cab, but they said that after a few thousand miles it will improve. So far, only 1700 miles. The ride is great and the remote start has come in handy in warming up the interior these last few weeks. Engine power is good. Transmission is smooth and responsive. The 4x4 is responsive.

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  Really enjoy the Denali - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By dbgindy - March 17 - 9:49 am

  This is the third SUV Ive had in a row and for performance, ride & features this is by far the best. Sure the gas mileage could be a little better but thats the case with almost all mid size SUVs. Ive had mine now for about 6 months and put almost 9500 miles on it with zero problems. Ive not regretted my purchase at all!

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  2007 Yukon SLT - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By skylane - March 14 - 5:24 pm

  As a Yukon owner for 6 years, the 2007 Yukon is a striking upgrade. Handling is very solid. Exterior fit and finish are noteworthy. Interior design is intuitive and everything works. I miss the rear "barn doors" of my older version. I appreciate the presence of the air bag curtains. All of the luxury items I sought are combined in this large SUV. Prior to the purchase I drove the BMW X5, the Q-ship and my last test drive was a 2007 Yukon. Exiting the 2007 Yukon, the decision was immediate: 2007 Yukon.

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  Past Grand Cherokee and Explorer Owner - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By JPK - March 13 - 2:00 am

  We just bought our truck a week or so ago and really like it a lot. After having a Jeep for 3 years and an Explorer prior to that, this is definetly the nicest of the 3...We also looked closely at the TrailBlazer but this one just seemed a little bit nicer and road a little smoother.

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  Yukon, Truly Professional Grade - 2000 GMC Yukon
  By Phil - March 12 - 10:42 pm

  Handles great, lots of space, comfort, not a timid 4x4. Used it for hunting and boating. very dependable ride that looks great and performs well. No complaints, one of the best vehicles I have ever owned.

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  2500HD 4x4 6.0L - 2002 GMC Sierra 2500HD
  By joel - March 10 - 9:36 am

  I really love this truck. I call it "big truck". I dont like the gas mileage, aprox 13 mpg but what could I expect. It definilety has the pulling power, and the acceleration that I would want. I drove a couple of F-250s and I just didnt like the ride quality as much as I do this truck. Im very happy with this truck

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  My Sonomoa Lexus - 1999 GMC Sonoma
  By rich lloyd - March 9 - 3:49 pm

  What a great little truck. Only problem in 57000 mi were left power window, cd player, alt., compressor. Normal stuff. Beautiful interior. Cant believe GM built such an ugly interior on their follow up Colorado. I call it the Lexus of small trucks and will be keeping for many more years or until GM builds something as nice

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  GMC Envoy - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By RParadine - March 8 - 2:00 am

  So far, we have been very pleased with this vehicle. We did a lot of research prior to purchasing this vehicle, mainly comparing it with the Jeep Cherokee. The salesman we worked with on the Envoy was very knowledgeable on the vehicle and its many features. There was no hype, just facts. All in all, an enjoyable experience and as I said above, we are pleased with the vehicle so far.