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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  Enjoying my SUV - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By eyedoc - December 23 - 10:00 am

  Purchased my SLE in Feb 02, May 24 and 13000 miles later, no problems. Ride quality is really very good, sight lines are good also and the overall size is just right for my needs. Gas milage could be better 14city,19 hwy. I have the air ride and the tow package which makes a soft ride and good around town response. Have read many reviews from others, they all complain about the 4WD models and the SLT with the mirrors and the extra stuff you get with leather, seems the extras break. The SLE is basic and dependable so far, so purchase one with running boards, chrome wheels, sunroof and enjoy.

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  I really thought Id miss my Saab.... - 2002 GMC Envoy
  By Patrick Smith - December 23 - 10:00 am

  Had 300 miles on it when I bought it (claimed a dealer trade, but more likely the sales manager using it. In one week Ive intentionally put another 650 miles on it in anticipation of a long highway trip (sideline: Ive always believed for the first 1K miles you shouldnt drive at sustained high speeds while the engine wears in - any mechs. or engs. out there who can verify or debunk?). Except for crummy gas mileage I love everything about this truck so far. I switched from a Saab, so I was accustomed to performance and have not been disappointed.

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  Great all around vehicle - 2008 GMC Acadia
  By lakerfan - December 23 - 6:06 am

  This is an excellent choice if youre looking for flexibility. The interior volume and configuration options are excellent. Very quiet interior. Smooth driver due to long wheelbase, yet still has a tight turning radius. Drives like a car, with the space of a wagon, and the size and capability of a larger SUV.

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  GMC Acadia in IL - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By JeffS - December 22 - 10:46 am

  I purchased my Acadia after a long comparison period. I looked at Toyota, Nissan and Dodge. I picked the Acadia primarily on the gas mileage and the look of the vehicle. I am happy with the drive, however the transmission tends to lag on a quick acceleration. The internal comfort is excellent. My only negative comment is there is a "hum" that is audible when driving slow or at a stop light. Since I listen to talk radio it is easily heard in the gaps. I took it back into the dealer and they said the noise is comparable to the Acacda they had on the lot. It may be nit-picking, but the ride is so smooth and quiet its disappointing to listen to a hum.

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  Great Van - built solid - 1998 GMC Savana
  By stockmds - December 22 - 2:00 am

  This is my secound GMC. I bought this one new and paid almost $35,000. The price was a little step, but it is very dependable. I have only need a few minor repare and they were covered under warranty. This is a great van and I am very satisfied.

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  Great Power and Comfort - 2002 GMC Yukon
  By mike Arias - December 22 - 2:00 am

  I’ve had my 2002 Yukon for 15,000 miles already. Great power (5.3l) and comfort. Excellent room. The ZM9 luxury package is great. Everyone loves the seats.

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  Im loving my Acadia! - 2007 GMC Acadia
  By pcz0925 - December 21 - 9:43 pm

  Let me first say that I have never owned any General Motors product and at last count have owned at least a dozen new cars and several used cars. This CUV has chcanged me though - what a vehicle! GM has done their homework and provided the best of SUVs and Minivans in one sharp looking and fun to drive vehicle. Our family is headed out on a spring break vacation so I hope to write more about our impressions from that trip. Look out all other SUVs, CUVs, and minivans - the General has a winnder on their hands!

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  Great Ride - 2000 GMC Yukon
  By davidwayres - December 21 - 2:00 am

  Im a GMC car salesman, and I decided to buy a 2000 Yukon. What a great vehicle. It fits my family perfectly, plus we can take another family with us to look at Christmas lights, etc. What a bargin. If you are looking for a used Tahoe/Yukon - make the jump to the new body style (2000 +) - it drives/looks/feels so much different than the 1999.

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  Love it - 2009 GMC Yukon XL
  By Will - December 20 - 3:40 am

  Wife drives an 07 Suburban, and I traded my 08 MDX in on this Denali XL when we had baby #4 (too hard to use the 3rd row). Love the Denali, but have to say the 07 Suburban is faster off the line by a considerable amount, even after giving up about 90 HP. Must be the AWD and 20" wheels on the Denali. And as much as I love the exhaust note on the Denali, some folks may not appreciate that and go for the relatively quiet 5.3L engine in the Suburban or Yukon XL.

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  problems - 2002 GMC Sonoma
  By problems - December 20 - 2:00 am

  nothing but problems The fuel gauge sending unit has been replaced twice the four wheel drive is out and still waiting on a second round of parts the power drivers seat will make dinging noises when going over bumps all problems have not been solved still hoping I enjoy driving the truck but if this continues may have to dump it.