2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Introduction of 4-wheel steering highlights the 2002 changes to GMC's version of General Motors' full-size pickup. Sierra shares its design with the Chevrolet Silverado, but features an exclusive top-line version called the Sierra Denali. Formerly called the Sierra C3, this luxury/performance extended-cab has a more-powerful V8 than other Sierras, plus all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Sierra Denali introduces GM's Quadrasteer 4-wheel steering system. It is designed to decrease the turning radius at low speed by turning the rear wheels counter to the fronts, and to aid stability at higher speeds by turning the rear wheels in the same direction as the fronts. Chevy also offers Quadrasteer on some Silverado models.

Meanwhile, mainstream Sierras gain a new PRO Professional Package option designed to appeal to commercial users. It includes exclusive interior storage features, such as a refrigerated console compartment and room for hanging files, plus specific exterior trim.

Half-ton 1500s and 3/4-ton 2500s offer regular and extended cabs; the 1500 also comes in a 4-dr Crew Cab. Extended-cabs have dual rear-hinged back doors that do not open independently of the front doors and a 3-passenger rear bench seat. Crew Cabs have four full-size front-opening doors and rear bench. All are available with front buckets or bench seat. Regular- and extended-cabs offer flush-fender Fleetside cargo boxes of 6.5 or 8.1 ft, and a 6.5-ft flare-fender Sportside box; Crew Cabs come with the shorter Fleetside box only.

Regular and extended-cab 1500s use a 4.3-liter V6 or optional 4.8- and 5.3-liter V8s. Crew Cabs come only with a 6.0-liter V8, which powers all 2500s. Manual and automatic transmissions are offered, the latter featuring a Tow/Haul mode that adjusts shift points to maximize power under heavy loads. Sierras are available in rear-wheel drive, 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement, or General Motors' Autotrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement; 4x4s include low-range gearing. GM's OnStar assistance system is optional, as is traction control on 2WD models. GM's exclusive Ride Control Suspension option offers two levels of shock absorber firmness to suit road or load.

Sport/luxury Sierra Denali comes in only one configuration: extended-cab with short Fleetside cargo box, all-wheel drive, 6.0-liter V8, automatic transmission, and a long list of standard equipment. Sierra's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Silverados.

COMPETITION

With the advent of crossover vehicles this segment has become less defined. Once the domain of work-related heavy-duty pickups, buyers are now demanding that their full-size trucks do double duty. Our Best Buys remain the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra. These trucks offer a wide range of powertrain combinations, plenty of luxury accommodations, and ample towing power--though the GM twins are the only ones to offer full-time 4WD.

The big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models feature for feature but can't match their ride comfort or civility. We also like the expensive Toyota Tundra. What it lacks in brute strength, it more than makes up for with refined road manners.