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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  No worries for high miles - 1995 GMC Sierra 1500
  By DeDub - January 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought my GMC with 228,000 miles on it, I did have some needed repairs that needed to happen, but it was the most fun, reliable, and just plain great car Ive ever owned. Even with the high miles, all original engine, 6" lift and 35" tires, I was still getting great milage, and tons of admiring looks. Id highly recommend GMC to any buyer.

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  Love It - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By muskokaeva - January 12 - 9:50 am

  Mom of two looking for a better handling and more powerful vehicle than my past Buick Rendezvous, not too hard to do! This CUV is a welcome change at GMC, great styling, super interior space, airbag nirvana, smooth 6 speed, dead quiet interior. Like the big Benzes, beautiful fit and finish. The AWD performs admirably and the cars weight gives it nice authority on the road. Fabulous value for the money, in the SLE version with the four wheel drive, big engine 275hp, proper 18 inch wheels. Avoid the 19s, they arent mated to this vehicle properly. Buy yourself some nice rims if you feel cheated! Drive it, itll give the Japanese a run for their money.

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  Great Vehicle - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By Mark61066 - January 9 - 2:00 am

  Purchased my Yukon Denali, and loved it so much I replaced my 2002 LX470. I was going to get a 2003 LX470, but it didnt offer half of the features as the Denali, and costed $25,000 MORE! The only feature I miss is the DVD nav or the Lexus, but GMC has one now, so I guess Ill have to trade up next year. This car rides FAR better, has amazing power, is cheaper, and I even get far better fuel economy.

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  This is a solid truck! - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Nate - January 6 - 9:53 am

  This vehicle is at the top of its class. The seats and interior are the most comfortable and roomy for any truck Ive been in. Its a solid built truck. It was put together right. It is dependable, and has plenty of power to get me where I need to go, not to mention a few thousand pounds of whatever I want to haul.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2007 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Fastest in the West - January 4 - 9:36 pm

  Sits high with the 17" tires and road visibility real good. The great aspect of this truck is the comfort in the interior. Plenty of room in front and back. I like the seats folding down in the back for cargo room. Gas mileage is not bad for the size truck. GM out did others with this design. The size can be a challenge. I had to make more space in the garage area to get this vehicle inside. It barely fit inside from back to front.

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  New 2007 3500 HD - 2007 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  By 8CarFan - January 1 - 12:03 am

  I bought the top model, 3500 HD, crew cab, 4wd, dually with all options. The Duramax is strong and the Allison tranny shifts smooth. Great power with acceptable mileage. The interior is a complete overhaul from the Classic models. The navigation system is addictive and the integrated brake controller is a step in the right direction. Very quiet and great driving. I rate overall a 9 out of 10. No one is perfect.

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  Acadia shows GM is back on track - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By Jeffrey - December 30 - 8:40 am

  An outstanding presentation by GM! The fit and finish of the Acadia brings GMC to the level of the Asian or Europeans. Attention to detail and the overall driving experience has been outstanding. The capability and size of the Acadia is masked by outstanding agility, fabulous ride, and wonderful driving experience. The second and third row seating ae designed in a manner which is well thought out. Clearly the third row was not an add on as it is in many smaller cross overs. Adjustable seating in the second row is a sign that GM took the overall needs for 7 passengers seriously. Excellent storage space, ergonomics, and overall design.

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  Very good car - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By KB - December 28 - 3:43 am

  I am glad I purchased this vehicle. I test drove Toyata Sequoia, Chevy Suburban, Ford Excursion, Ford Expedition, but I choose to buy Yukon XL. Excellent car!

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  GMC Yukon XL Review - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By Gregory Walls - December 27 - 10:03 pm

  I bought it new and during three years Ive had only one major repair out of warranty (power steering box). After 65,000 miles it still rides great and is in excellent shape inside and out (other than normal minor paint scratches and dings). The build quality is excellent and the car is holding up very well. I have previously traded my car every three years when I get tired of them, but I want to keep my Yukon XL until the wheels fall off.

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  bailys ride - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By baily - December 23 - 10:00 am

  didnt not have to much faith in american autos. especilly after the 1999 dodge dakota i use yo own. so far this suv is very well built.