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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  Canyon a Great ride - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By Greg - December 31 - 12:32 am

  This is my 6th compact truck and by far the best. My last was a Japanese brand- mistake. Interior convenience is so much better and the seat material so much more durable. I have a low end version with 4 cyl and auto, the power is suprising and I still get 16 mpg around town.

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  Bold -- Right for the times - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By Clayt - December 30 - 12:16 am

  I did tons of research on all competitors for at least four months before my Envoy lease was up. Drove them all and settled on purchasing (owning)the Terrain. I chose the AWD 4cyl leather seats SLT-1 model. More bang for the buck. Good gas mileage and very comfortable interior.All the Tech stuff is neat. I love the bold/mean exterior look. The vehicle has swagger! My hats off to GMC for building top quality into their vehicles now. I rate the car a No.10. Fit and finish good. The only thing I dont get is why with all the tech stuff built in why GM didnt include a garage door opener. Doesnt make sense. Other than that the SUV is a perfect fit for me.

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  Good Mid-sized Truck - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By RSWARD - December 29 - 3:50 pm

  Very happy with the truck. Like the I5 engine, good acceleration, fun to drive, gas mileage is around 17 (city). Get compliments on the vehicle. Would have liked a better turning radius. Interior plain and simple. Otherwise very happy with the truck and got a good deal on it with all the rebates.

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  Great - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Joseph skii - December 26 - 10:00 am

  Love it. Has most everything I want. Enjoy to drive with power I need.

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  God Bless Them Yukons - 1996 GMC Yukon
  By sugadashane - December 26 - 6:44 am

  I have a 96 Yukon and I just bought it about a week ago, a long time Chevy/GMC fan I just love this truck. It has a 6 inch lift and is chipped and ram aired to get me 350hp on the dyno. Truly not a force to be messed with. Will go through anything anytime anywhere.

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  Greatly Improved - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By Anonymous - December 24 - 7:23 pm

  I traded in an 04 Envoy XUV. This Envoy Denali is so much better. With a few improvements this could easily compete with any luxury SUV on the market. Even though this is considered a Mid-Size SUV, it is still quite large. Gas mileage is actually slightly better with the V8 than the 6 cylinder because of the Displacement On Demand (rated at 16 city – 22 hwy). I don’t understand why people complain about gas mileage. They should buy a small compact SUV. With the air compressor you can put air in your own tires. Its smooth riding with the Luxury Ride Bilstein Shocks and quieter with added sound proofing. Color keyed assist steps are a nice touch. Compaired to an XL, this handles much better.

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  Great Value - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Phillip - December 22 - 2:42 pm

  I looked at several SUVs including Grand Cherokee,Commander and Explorer, but for the money you can not beat the Envoy XL.The 3rd seat has more leg room than our old 99 Suburban.It drives great and for the money you get a whole lot more options.

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  Phil & Mindy 6-07 - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By PhilMindy - December 19 - 9:16 pm

  We have enjoyed our Acadia and having over 1,000 miles we are ready for the road ahead. The engine noise a little noisy on heavy acceleration, the dash imperfection is anoying but I had the dealership take care of this. I could not have abuilt a better vehicle myself.

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  Great Fun to Drive Total Enjoyment - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By PCB4ME - December 18 - 10:02 pm

  I have driven sports cars and sedans and this has to be one of the best built and best riding vehicles I have driven. The heated leather seats have been great during the cold winter mornings. The Bose audio system is pretty nice as well. The engine is strong and the vehicle has great towing ability and I am getting about 18mpg on the highway with the 5.3L V8

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  Near Perfect - 2008 GMC Sierra 1500
  By OD - December 18 - 12:06 am

  The absolute best truck on the market! Had my Sierra w/ All Terrain package for three weeks and at just under 3k miles, I couldnt be happier. Rides like a luxury car on the highway and an off-roader when needed. All Terrain package runs just under Denali as far as price but maintains more of the off- roader feel. Z71 package w/ 20" chrome wheels, 5.3 liter V8, 2-tone leather seating, & much more. I am getting 20 to 21 mpg on hwy & 17 city! Not bad for a larger V8 that really isnt meant for fuel effiency. Overall, best truck on the market after extensive checking and I couldnt be happier. If you are looking for a real deal with a great feel do not stop short of at least drinving one!