2006 GMC Sierra HD: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

GMC's heavy-duty pickup trucks mark time for 2006, awaiting redesigned replacements due in calendar 2007. Sierra HD shares its basic platform with the Chevrolet Silverado HD, and it comes in 3/4-ton 2500 and 1-ton 3500 versions. Three cab types are available: regular cab, extended cab with rear doors that don't open independently of the fronts, and a crew cab with four full-size doors. All can be ordered with front bucket seats or a 40/20/40 split bench. The extended and crew cab models include a three-person rear bench. The regular cab comes with an 8-foot bed. Extended- and crew-cab models comes with either an 8-ft or a 6.5-ft bed. Chassis-cab and chassis cutaway models are also offered.

Available trim levels ascend from Work to SLT. All Sierra HDs are available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. An electronic-shift transfer case is standard on the 4WD SLT. All models have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Curtain side airbags are not offered. Standard is a 300-hp 6.0-liter V8 engine. Optional is an 8.1-liter V8 with 242-330 hp depending on model and option selection. Also optional are 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8s with 300-360 hp. The base engine teams with 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic. The 8.1 V8 and diesel engines have a 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed automatic with Engine Grade Braking, an electronic feature that makes an automatic downshift when descending steep slopes. Options include satellite radio, OnStar assistance, DVD entertainment for crew cabs, and power-extending camper mirrors.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty 1/2-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider 3/4- or 1-ton models.

Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.