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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  Its a fine ride! - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By George Mulder - April 2 - 11:53 am

  Have had my Envoy for about 6 months now, and I really enjoy it! I love the new Steel Gray color. The leather seating is very comfortable, and with all the adjustments, I have a world of seating options. The heated seats are one of my favorite features. Everything works very well and makes sense. If I had to complain, it would be that there are too few special storage spots in the vehicle. But Im a bit of a carry it with me kinda guy, so I like to be able to have a couple extra small places for things like sunglasses, money, etc. But, that is not much of a complaint. So two enthusiastic thumbs up from me.

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  Great SUV - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By Great SUV - April 1 - 10:26 pm

  I have owned this vehicle 6 years and have had no major problems. Replaced front brake pads twice and rear drums once in 125,000 miles. Most of these miles were cross country highway miles in both snow and heat. All my friends have been impressed with the quality of this vehicle.

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  Wow, better than expected - 2005 GMC Yukon
  By glenski - April 1 - 3:22 am

  Just got my Denali, saw the new 05 color "steel gray metallic", so sharp had to have it. After driving experinces with Tahoes/Yukons, this is just so much better and refined. Power is great fit & finish appears good. Have owned Toyotoa & Nissan SUVs and loved them, but this is a great luxury type vehicle for the money.

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  New Envoy - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By JMITCH - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Plenty of fun power. Nearly 20K miles and no problems. A real winner

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  2002 GMC Envoy SLT - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By 2002slt - March 31 - 10:00 am

  The redesign has been long overdue. I think its 100% better than my old 98 Bravada. It handles much better in the Chicago snow, and has 80 more HP! The only gripe I have is with the rear plastic frame on the hatch\tailgate. It expands when the sun hits it and scrapes away some of the paint on the metal panel its connected to. Its only noticeable if youre looking for it. Also, it leaves the primer, so no worries about rust. This SHOULD be solved soon. The new models now have a gasket installed between the two. Its by far the best vehicle Ive owned.

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  I Like it - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Seadog - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Great SUV, one of the best I have ever owned.

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  Happy I Changed - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By GAYLE - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Glad I made the move from Jeep Grd Cher to GMC. Almost didnt get another SUV. Hope quality continues - no problems in 2300 miles.

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  Ill take it - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Scubadog - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Have had mine for 11 months now, and the only two problems were the suspension recall (in effect before I took delivery, so mine was fixed before I got it), and a recall to reprogram the transfer case that took less than 20 minutes. Excellent to drive, all features (mines a loaded SLT) work as designed, plenty of power, and no problem with Chicago winters. One annoyance, the side-view mirrors reset themselves to a different location each day, despite the fact that Im Driver #1 in the program / key fob and the only one driving it.

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  Great Vehicle So Far - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By le - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Just took delivery of a new Envoy. Last vehicle was a GMC Denali which traveled 35000 miles in 14 mo. Its a tough act to follow, but I must say in a lot of ways its a better vehicle. Ive put 1000 miles on it so far with no problems. Much better gas milage,almost as much pick-up and very comfortable. Actually the Envoy has more leg room in it than the Denali. Im very impressed so far!!!

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  Very surprised! - 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD
  By Christopher - March 28 - 12:13 pm

  Took a look at the new F250 King Ranch and was wowd by smooth leather and exterior design. Was turned off though by the interior setup. Engine had a horrible setup and high turbo squeal as well. The GMC SLT has supple and comfortable seats, but the leather isnt as soft as the Ford KR. The look and feel of everything is great though. There arent many cheap looking parts. The setup inside and out were well thought of. Also, the Duramax and Allison are tried and true. 4X4 works great and is rather easy to jump in and out of. The power is equal to the previous years model. I say this because a lot of talk is going on regarding the EPA constrictions. Great purchase!