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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  Our Black Knight - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By BlackKnight - July 6 - 10:00 am

  The Yukon XL is a delight, both in town and on the highway. Much to our surprise, it is more maneuverable than our Lincoln Town Car. Outward visibility is also excellent. Great road height and stability in cross wind situations gives us heightened confidence in bad weather situations. The Yukon will be in the family fleet for many years.

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  Not Bad At All !! - 2000 GMC Yukon
  By hocker - July 5 - 2:00 am

  I bought this truck in Aug of 03 and this truck probally is the best vehicle I have ever owned. The truck had 79K and was like new in drivability. After a year , it still drives the same. This truck was really made well. The mpg is truthfully around 17-19 depending on the drive. If you want a used SUV built right , I suggest the Yukon.

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  All-new and fun to drive - 2005 GMC Canyon
  By KangarouxKid - June 30 - 2:00 am

  This new GMC Canyon fits the need for a good-sized truck with excellent fuel economy. In light of what I believe to be permanently high fuel prices, economy of operation is important. The truck is comfortable and quiet.

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  Better than anticipated - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By oldabe - June 29 - 2:00 am

  I chose this vehicle over a Cadilac Escalade. I just couldnt justify the extra 12,000$ that the Escalade would have cost(although i could have afforded it). This vehicle handles extremely well, short turning radius, I have previously owned a Yukon, and Expedition previously.

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  Van to SUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By RUEnvoyous? - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Yes, we traded in the family van for an SUV.......looked at many, decided on the Envoy XL because it has so many features that are still compatible with having children. Love the styling, the ride is great and the storage more than most of the mid-size SUVs we looked at. Very happy with our decision!

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  Mr. Denali - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By cbg1688 - June 28 - 2:00 am

  Overall very satisfied with the vehicle. Received plenty of great compliments on looks and comfort. The only problems were coolant system related which ended up costing me a grand total of $500 over four years...not bad! I have heard of brake problems from others with the same vehicle which seem to be very common on the 2000s NOT the 99s for whatever reason. Great room for beach trips, moving, friends and/or weekend getaways. Thanks GMC for the great memories. -Chris Gorham

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  Overall a good choice - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By mfrez - June 28 - 2:00 am

  Smooth ride, surprising amount of room and good interior design. Compared to my 2001 Suburban, the build quality is not as good, and the gas mileage is the same, which Im not happy about. Front end doesnt handle very well in hard cornering, my Suburban does as well. No problems so far, but unless you dont like the size difference, Id buy the Tahoe or Suburban.

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  Awesome.... - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Mis812 - June 28 - 2:00 am

  The Denali XL is spacious, fun to drive and the best vehicle ive ever owned....

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  Great Vehicle - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Loop4fun - June 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine loaded with most options and have not had it in the shop. Everything works, no rattles, etc. Id by another without looking at the competition.

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  Great Truck - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By puckpimp - June 28 - 2:00 am

  Most comfortable ride I have ever been in. Not as big as it seems.Fun to drive!