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 BEST SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Fourroses - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is the best vehicle I have ever owned and have bought many new vehicle such as Cadillac, Reatta, etc. There are absolutely none that can compare to the ride, comfort, handling, and options of 2002 GMC Envoy. This Envoy had every available option and would not own any SUV on the market today.

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  Large comfortable SUV - 2009 GMC Yukon XL
  By Uncle John - October 15 - 1:26 pm

  Just replaced 2007 Suburban LTZ and cant hardly believe the difference. Denali is far more fun and quick. Plan to haul trailer of about 7000lb. So that 6.2L motor will be a blessing. Really impressed by a guy who has had over 80 vehicles from Ferrari to Volkswagon.

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  I love this truck! - 2004 GMC Sierra 1500
  By horsemom - October 12 - 2:00 am

  I tow a horse trailer. When I drove this truck, I thought it would help with towing. What a great surprise that I could drive it downtown, park it in a ramp, and actually not worry about the back end sliding in the snow. Its heaven after my F150, much more like a Cadillac than a truck. I love this truck!

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  What I didnt learn from Consumer Report - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By Al Bodeen - October 4 - 4:06 am

  Consumer Reports compares this vehicle to others in its medium class and gives the negative review of poor mileage. Really? Even though it has almost twice as much luggage capacity and 23 cu. foot more cargo capacity than the Highlander, more cargo capacity than the Mazda CX-9, Pilot and Taurus and more powerful engine than all except the Mazda, it still gets better mileage than all others named here or in its class. Moving and pulling more for less is a big deal. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is 6400 lbs and it beats its competitors there by 500 lbs. while getting a 16/24 mpg. rating. I love the way it drives and performs. You want to get one of these if you want the most for the miles

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  2500HD - 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD
  By 2500HD - September 29 - 9:16 am

  At first I didnt like the styling, because it looks like a Ford. I chose the 6L gasoline engine in the 2500HD to avoid active fuel management in the 5.3L engine. With only occasional towing, the gasoline motor is a good choice for acceleration with less maintainence. The gas mileage is only slightly worse than I am used to with my Jeep Wrangler. The brakes are really powerful once broken in. Comfort on the open road is great. I bought the vehicle on the internet at great price, but it came without cruise control. I asked the local dealer if he could add it and they said "no". On my Wrangler, it was no problem because the wiring is already there, but GM doesnt do this.

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  Yukon XL is better then I ever guessed.. - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By Jenise - September 29 - 8:56 am

  I purchased this car as a gift for my husband -it was his dream truck. He loves this car and practically worships it. Weve driven it to Boston and it was a fantastic ride. With five children, the DVD and separate music system is a trip saver. It is hands down the best deal weve ever experienced both in terms of price, quality, reliability and comfort. Great job GMC!

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  The King of SUVS - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By FM - September 28 - 12:33 pm

  This was my 3rd purchase for a GMC Yukon Denali.My first two were excellent vehicles. The vehicle is loaded with luxury options such as heated front and rear seats, IPOD capability, heated steering wheel, navigation, satellite radio, leather, wood grain accents, reareview camera and sensors, remote start, sunroof, 20 inch chrome rims, running boards and a Bose stereo system.Compared to a Cadillac Escalade ESV and you will be paying $10000 or more just for the Cadillac name.The Engine is responsive and supplies plenty of power for cargo and several passengers.The suspension and ride is superb and comfortable.The 07 GMC Yukon Denali is an excellent vehicle for those who seek comfort and style.

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  So Far So Good - 2008 GMC Sierra 1500
  By kitch - September 28 - 4:00 am

  Just over 1 week of ownership and I can say I am very pleased with the vehicle. Traded in my Titan LE for this. Interior fit, finish and textures is by far the best Ive seen on any truck. Flip up seats in the rear are nice and a necessity (Tundra I test drove didnt have that). Bose stereo is good and Nav seems easy to operate. Not quite as fun to drive as my Titan was, but still decent. Nice rumble from the stock exhaust. 6 speed tranny is smoooooth. Nice and quiet at 60mph. The AWD is a nice feature to have.

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  2000 Yukon XL - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By Earl RIce - September 23 - 10:56 am

  This is one of the most comfortable trucks Ive ever owned. It pulls a 7500lb travel trailer with no problems. The only repair Ive needed since purchasing it new is the front hub assembly which wasnt difficult to replace. I did replace the OEM hitch because of failures on other GM trucks. This has been a great truck to own and I will buy another when the time comes. I hope they will put a diesel in the Suburban/Yukon XL line.

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  Pleased - 2002 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Sparky - September 23 - 1:50 am

  Though the vehicle had to have the front differential replaced at 9400 miles, I still would buy another in a second. Absolutely fantastic for pulling my 30 foot travel trailer, excellent fit and finish, and the 4 wheel steering makes it easy to drive and park even in Denvers hectic traffic. Mileage is average, but seating and comfort features are way above average. This is the nicest truck I have ever owned. Leased it originally, then bought it at the end of the lease. Dealer was dying to get it back, but I wouldnt give it up!