Although the GMC Sierra 1500 has been completely redesigned for 2007, what most separates it from the outgoing Sierra (Classic) is inside the cabin. The new interior offered on the top SLT trim is similar to that currently offered on GM's full-size sport-utility vehicles such as the GMC Yukon, and offers standard luxury features like power heated front leather seats, six-disc CD/MP3-capable audio system, and heated windshield washers, while top crew cab SLT models add rain-sensing wipers and a rear-seat audio system. LTZ models are further differentiated by a completely different instrument panel and door panels, a huge, 20.1-liter center console storage area, and upgraded five-liter glove box. Ultrasonic rear parking assist is available.
Underneath, the carefully engineered hydroformed frame is fully boxed, and has "C" channel sections that combine to make an incredibly stiff backbone. The new Sierra is so solid, it feels as if it was carved out of one big block of steel.
The work truck and SLE trims are equipped on more of a budget for those who plan to use their pickup for utility, with a more basic interior treatment. These trims have still been upgraded with a new double glove box design, larger control knobs, and a lockable in-seat storage bin that's large enough for a laptop computer and has a built-in 12-volt power outlet. The SLE adds popular equipment such as air conditioning, cruise control, and a CD/MP3 audio system, and a Convenience Package brings more luxury in the way of a remote starting system, adjustable power pedals, and rear park assist.
Seating has been improved all around. A new stadium-style, folding rear seat, which is split 60/40 and has a fold-down center armrest, is standard on the crew cab and available on the extended cab. Rear legroom has been improved on extended cab models and ingress is now improved thanks to rear access doors that open 170 degrees.
Each trim level is available in either 2WD or an on-demand 4WD system with locking rear differential. A 195-horsepower, 4.3L V6 is standard on regular cab and 2WD extended cab Work Truck models, while a 295-horsepower, 4.8L V8 is standard on 4WD extended cab Work Truck models, SLE regular cab and extended cab models, and crew cab Work Truck and SLE models. A 315-horsepower, 5.3L V8 with Active Fuel Management is standard on crew cab SLE2 and all SLT body types.
That 5.3-liter V8 is available as an option on all other models, while there's also a FlexFuel version that adds E85 compatibility. Thanks to Active Fuel Management, the 5.3L gasoline Sierra is rated at 16 city, 21 highway, the same as the base 4.3L V6 and one of the best figures in its class.
As part of the trailering package, a 367-horsepower (and 375 ft-lbs of torque), 6.0L V8 is available on SLE and SLT extended and crew cab models. This engine has variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management. The package also includes a locking differential, heavy-duty cooling system, and high-capacity air cleaner.
Each of the four suspension systems available on the Sierra are tailored for particular driving situations, and each has a completely different character. The Z83 delivers the best ride, while the Z85 upgrades for improved handling and towing capacity. The Z71 is the option for those who plan to take their Sierra off-road, and for those wanting optimized street performance there's the Z60, which rides on 20-inch wheels.
Cargo bed lengths are 5'8" for the short bed, 6'6" for the standard bed, and 8' for the long bed, and rated payload goes up to 2,160 pounds when properly equipped.
The OnStar Generation 7 system is standard on all Sierras, including automatic crash notification and a one-year subscription to the Safe & Sound plan.
An all-new, ultra-plush GMC Sierra Denali crew cab (in both 2WD and AWD) is available as well. It uses a 6.2L V8 with variable valve timing to produce 403 horsepower and 417 ft-lbs of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission, a locking rear differential, skid plates, StabiliTrak, high-performance suspension, fog lamps, heated mirrors, and rear parking assist are standard, as are a slew of interior luxury items. Optional 20-inch wheels can replace the standard 18-inch alloys.
Tough Enough For Work Duty, Smooth Enough For Daily Driving
Available Luxury Features
Towing Capability.
The GMC Sierra 1500 has been completely redesigned for 2007, with more attention to interior appointments, luxury features, and driving refinement. Like its forbears, the new Sierra is available in a wide range of combinations, determined from three different cab styles, three cargo box lengths, three trim levels, five suspensions, and various V6 and V8 engines.
The new Sierra is built on a new fully boxed frame and has a wider track than the previous model for improved stability. A new coil-over-shock front suspension and a new rack-and-pinion steering unit improve ride and handling. StabiliTrak is available on the Sierra for the first time.
Warranty coverage is increased for 2007, with five years or 100,000 miles of powertrain coverage that's fully transferable and includes roadside assistance for the full period.
The former Sierra is still being sold for 2007 as the Sierra Classic, so some dealerships are referring to the new models by their factory designation, GMT900, to avoid confusion.
The 2007 GMC Sierra 1500 is a half-ton pickup for those folks who really work their truck. There is an enormous selection of cabin, bed, and engine sizes, in addition to a range of trim levels and load capabilities from which to choose. GM claims their 1500 pickups have the highest tow rating among light-duty trucks (up to 10,500 pounds), and class-leading V8 fuel economy of up to 21 mpg, which make the Sierra very competitive in its segment.
