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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  Despite problems - still love this truck - 1999 GMC Sierra 1500
  By tlechner - September 12 - 10:00 am

  Overall I really enjoy this truck. However I am worried about when the warranty runs out. I have replaced both power windows motors, drivers side twice. First time was when the truck was only 2-3 months old. Steering box - replaced at about 50K. This truck does move. The tow/haul mode is great.

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  Nice SUV - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By utgmcguy - September 12 - 2:00 am

  Thanks to my grandpa I have this SUV. It has over 125,000 miles on it and still runs great! No leaks or anything. It may be almost 6 years old but it still looks new. The leather seat with heat for all passengers keeps everyone cmofortable.

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  Fun - 2005 GMC Envoy
  By Jackie Woods - September 11 - 2:00 am

  I have really enjoyed this SUV. It is a smooth riding vehicle and I was able to carry 6 people w/ a baby car seat. I love this SUV and I plan to keep it for a long time.

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  Good Car and fun to drive - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Envoyowner - September 11 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car. There is alot of room for our three kids (we got the third seat). Very comfortable interior for adults to sit in the rear seats. Only problem is it uses alot of gas, but we expected that.

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  Great Ride - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Dog Lover - September 8 - 2:00 am

  Great combination of Luxury ride and SUV practicality. Didnt plan on getting the stylish Denali, but couldnt leave it on the lot. Gets a lot of looks from others. Nice interior. Well worth the money.

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  Maybe the Ride with Improve with Time - 2010 GMC Terrain
  By tommygun - September 7 - 2:16 pm

  Traded in 07 GMC Yukon XL. Wanted something to fit in my garage year round -- i.e. a big downsizing move. No need to look for small SUVs - most competing dealers would have lauged me off their lots. Got $1000 for loyalty. 14.2 mpg on first tank. The V6 - 19" chrome wheels make ride way too stiff.

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  Glad I didnt buy a Tundra. - 2000 GMC Sierra 1500
  By Cottonmouth - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive put 65,000 miles on it since I drove it off the lot 2.5 years ago and Ive been very happy with it. Feels like driving a car, but performs like a truck. Good gas milage, and Ive had zero problems with it. The 40/20/40 seats give great lumbar support.

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  my new GMC - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By robyns car - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Thus far, I have been completely satisfied with the performance of my new GMC Yukon XL. Although the gas mileage is a little less than I anticipated, I drive mostly city driving and it isnt off the charts bad. My kids love the space and we have really liked the fact that it is so quiet inside. As a Volvo and Merceds owner, I am used to automobiles that exceed expectations and this one has done just that. If this is what American cards are like now a days... I may rethink my next auto purchase to an American manufactured car.

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  My new fun vehicle - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By lorene braun - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I enjoy driving my envoy very much. I like the feel of being a little higher than someof the other vehicles and I think it handles very well.I have had 3 new pontiac Bonneivilles with all the bells and gadgets. I enjoyed them very much, but there wasnt enough room to take what I needed to with me to winter in Florida. I really feel my Envoy compares with my previous cars very well. I hope I have as good luck with this vehicle as I did with my Bonnevilles. I like this one very much.

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  great suv for its time - 2006 GMC Envoy
  By D. OSBORN - September 3 - 4:53 am

  i have a gmc envoy , i am the original owner , bought in Ohio ,assembled in moraine assy with pride...it is 2006 and has been garage kept and i can tell you, ive had no issues with this SUV at all aside from typical maintenance items that has to be replaced