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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  Yukon Denali - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Jon Rud - May 4 - 2:00 am

  The Denali has performed great under all conditions. We have driven through 3 blizzards and felt completely comfortable with the traction and handling. Towing a large boat and enclosed trailor are no trouble at all, you would not know that they are there except for the gas gauge moving. Which is my only complant about the truck, and for the power that it has I probably should not complain. I have put on 14,000 so far and it has been exceptional.

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  2004 Yukon - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By ExonicJay - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased my second Yukon. I really like features the 2004 model offers over my older 2000 model.

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  Tuff truck - 2008 GMC Sierra 1500
  By tatertot - May 3 - 11:53 am

  This truck is great, the wide stance make you feel safe. The handling is great, there is hardly any roal in the suspension when cornering. Believe it or not I jumped my new truck 1 week after I got it. But not purposly. When I did so the landing hurt but the truck was fine. The balance was tweeked but I checked it out and nothing was broke or bent. It drives the same as before.

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  Great Truck. - 2001 GMC Sonoma
  By super sonoma - May 3 - 2:00 am

  My experience with this vehicle has proved to be a very reliable one. i have not had one problem with it. GMC, keep up the good work. My Anti-locks have proved to be very reliable as well. If it is in your interest, add a dual exhaust like me for great performance and looks. Mine look great

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  Best of Show - Yukon - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By campertom - May 3 - 2:00 am

  Having owned a variety of vehicles and makes (Jeep, Ford, Volvo, Olds, Isuzu, Porsche, VW - and driven most others) Ive been fortunate never to run across a lemon but could always easily produce a "wish" list of what could have been better. This Yukon is near perfection - very comfortable, powerful, and looks great! I cant wait for my next one!

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  GMC ENVOY - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By aeflightnurse - May 3 - 2:00 am

  A joy to drive with many options available. On Star comes standard. Drives much more like a car than a truck or SUV, a quiet, smooth ride.

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  Rays SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Ray Helms - May 2 - 2:00 am

  I have owned this vehicle for two and one half years and have driven it 37000 miles. It has performed exceptionally well in every respect.I have not been disapppointed in any way.

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  Love this Envoy XL - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Marvin Ivey - May 2 - 2:00 am

  Great Vehicle! bought new in Jan 04, have 10,000 mils + already. Outstanding ride! Lots of room, (I got the XL model) very, very quiet. Comfortable, w/good features. Better fuel economy than I expected. Getting from 16 to 19mpg. Have owned numerous vehicles, and so far, I like this vehicle best of any of them. Opted for this Envoy because of potential economy with 6 cylinders, yet plenty of power with a 4.2L. Also when younger (now age 68) I drove a lot of cars & trucks with "straight sixs" and never had a bad one. The Dealer gave me a good deal w/0% financing. Overall Im a happy camper.

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  WHAT WERE THEY THINKING? - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By Katrina - April 29 - 2:00 am

  Okay, Ill admitt it. . . I didnt check the reviews first. My Mother and I both wanted to buy a Yukon but I backed down for fear of the Yukons gas millage. My Mother did purchase the Yukon. Now, I feel cheated because the Envoy burns more gas than the Yukon. Sure, the Yukon has a larger tank but the Envoy burns more gas!!!! I drive both vehicles regularly so I know this is true. I paid the same amount for my Envoy as my Mother paid for her Yukon so I REALLY feel cheated. Overall the Envoy is a great SUV to own, If you also own a gas station!! On the average I use $10 of gas per day and Im a "stay at home MOM".

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  Envoy LUV - 2004 GMC Envoy
  By mrssmith - April 29 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Envoy for only a month, but I love it! I dont even mind making the payments!