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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  Update - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By tgold - March 30 - 5:13 am

  I gave a review earlier loving my GMC Envoy SLE 4WD, I do still love it but after driving it for about 1,200 miles my gas line disconnected while driving on a busy highway. Luckily I pulled over in the breakdown lane. The problem was easily fixed but should never have happened. I consider this pretty serious and hope it is not an indication of other problems. Will keep you updated. Also, rear passenger does not shut as easily as others.

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  Too many problems - 1998 GMC Jimmy
  By MakeItAdouble - March 29 - 9:02 pm

  Lots of trouble Heater core plugged 2002 blew out w/water hose. Water pump 2005, brakes & rotors every two years, Ignition switch cause many starting and performance problems 2003, Wipers stopped 2005- This is from the motors cicuit board getting cracked soldered joints, look up online to repair yourself. Door hinge pins shot-2005. Passenger seat handle broke off-2002. Intake manifold leaking 2005, Alternator-2005. Thermostat-2003. Hub assemblies-2002. Battery-2004. Other minor stuff. I learned a lot working on this piece of junk. Its no wonder GM is faultering.

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  Great truck - 2010 GMC Sierra 1500
  By 2010 Sierra - March 29 - 4:30 am

  Great truck so far. I love the 2 tone leather seats. I have the off road package and the chrome trim really sets the truck apart from others. I am getting 19.3 mpg but I havent pulled anything yet. The ride is smooth and quiet.

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  Fun to drive - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By rainney22 - March 27 - 12:45 pm

  This SUV is fun to drive and comfortable. Very stylish with nice luxury options. Smooth ride. I would highly recommend to anyone on the market for an SUV.

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  16 month review - 2014 GMC Sierra 1500
  By telson - March 27 - 2:30 am

  Just over 40,000 miles on my 2014 SLT crew. Im 75% freeway driving.A few recalls taken care of, bluetooth issues, and replacement of poor quality OEM tires, that sums up the repairs its needed. The factory headlights are sub par, I replaced the factory bulbs with ZXE units with great results. Im very impressed with this truck overall, its getting an average of 20 MPG on mostly freeway miles. This truck feels like a Lexus compared to the F150 it replaced, very quiet and smooth. Comfy seats, and a nice ride are also welcome. Great truck overall!

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  Great for Many Uses - 1995 GMC Suburban
  By Team Hauler - March 26 - 11:59 am

  I bought this vehicle with 64K and have now got 163K and going strong. This vehicle had a customization package which enhanced the interior with middle buckets and entertainment features - great for the kids on long trips. Whether hitting the highway, hauling the team to games, or loading building materials for the latest project this GMC has been awesome. Leather has held up great. Has gotten 13-16 mpg highway, 9-11 city. Am now looking for a little less size and better fuel economy, but this has been a great ride for many uses.

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  Great SUV and Dependable! - 1995 GMC Jimmy
  By S Saunders - March 26 - 11:20 am

  This has been an excellent vehicle and Im still driving it. It would be nice to have better fuel economy and I never liked the plastic front bumper that could never be cleaned like new. Other than that, I could not ask for more in a vehicle. Ive never kept a vehicle this long but it still looks like new and runs great! When new, the transmission always had hesitation. A new one was placed in it at about 33,000 miles (under warranty) and that is what is in it today with no problems.

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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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  Like it - 2009 GMC Sierra 1500
  By BillyB - March 21 - 11:36 am

  Purchased the SLT Z71 with 5.3L, which replaced a 2007 SLE. Although not estatic with the last truck, I couldnt pass up the repeat-buyer rebates on the 09. The SLT interior is very comfortable and pleasing to the eyes, and its worth the upgrade from the SLE. The BOSE sound system is very good. Truck rides and handles nicely. My only complaints are a constant squeaking in the driver side door panel area (which the dealer is trying to fix), 18" tires that collect and throw rocks causing the exterior paint to chip, and the soft paint.