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2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Pickup First Drive
Walking up to the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali 1500, it’s hard not to muse about GMC’s very identity. On the one hand, its historical roots as the General Motors Truck Co. give it a distinct commercial truck bent. Many people know it as “GMC Truck,” a dedicated truck-only brand that’s never sold cars.
But over time, the brand has skewed toward the premium end of the market in order to distinguish GMC pickups from the mechanically identical trucks sold at Chevrolet dealers. This strategy led to the development of the wildly popular Denali trim level, which is practically a brand unto itself.
All the while, there has been a lingering sense that it’s all just a surface veneer, a case of GMC-versus-Chevy “badge engineering.” GMC has always bristled at that notion. The all-new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup is designed to chart a new course, with greater differentiation from the Silverado 1500 in terms of styling, feature content, and even variations in powertrain availability.
Same Frames, Different Bodywork Of course, significant mechanical commonalities are inevitable. Here the basic cab dimensions are shared, with the 2019 GMC Sierra crew cab enjoying the same 3-inch increase in rear legroom as the Silverado. The stronger frame and all the benefits that come with it are here in force.
But the bodywork is quite different. This has been the case for a number of years, but now the differences go deeper. Changes made to the underlying support structures gave GMC and Chevrolet designers greater freedom to go their separate ways, enabling more divergence in headlight size, shape and placement.
Visibility over the Sierra’s hood is notably better because its headlights are a bit lower and set farther back, but the bigger point is the two trucks now give off distinctly different vibes. The GMC Sierra sports a handsome and more traditional front end that we find far less polarizing than that of the Silverado. It’s now possible to love the Sierra and hate the Silverado – or vice versa – while it’s far less likely that a prospective buyer won’t have a clear favorite.
A Look InsideInside, however, the differences are subtle. Indeed, the contours of the dash and the location of its various controls are virtually the same between the trucks. Both interiors frankly look a generation old right out of the gate, though we suppose that owners trading in old for new might welcome the familiarity.
The Sierra Denali does have a little more going for it, though. The knobs have a different look and a pleasing texture, and the heated and ventilated leather seats are attractive and supportive. Additionally, the Sierra’s instrument panel has a much larger and more comprehensive data display between the tach and the speedometer, and you can get a massive 3-by-7-inch head-up display as part of the Denali Ultimate package.
But the everyday negatives are many, ranging from a too-small center console to a stodgy column shifter. The screen-printed effects on our truck’s touchscreen surround looked pretty unconvincing, too. A midlevel Ram Laramie with a few options serves up a more interesting and attractive interior laden with more thoughtful features, even compared to the Sierra 1500 Denali.
Powertrain Improvements GMC’s Sierra 1500 powertrain lineup consists of five offerings as of this writing, with a diesel engine on the way. Not surprisingly, it’s the same roster that Chevrolet offers. The base model gets the legacy 4.3-liter V6 and 5.3-liter V8 engines bolted to last year’s six-speed transmission, while the next two rungs up get the 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and eight-speed automatic combination we sampled earlier this year.
There’s also a second 5.3-liter engine in the lineup, as well as the 6.2-liter V8 engine in the Denali we drove for this review. Both have a new Dynamic Fuel Management system (DFM) that can shut off any of the eight cylinders in 17 different skip-fire patterns. But their outputs are unchanged: 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque for the DFM 5.3-liter V8 and 420 hp and 460 lb-ft for the DFM 6.2-liter V8. The 5.3-liter V8 is mated to an eight-speed automatic we’ve seen before, while the larger 6.2-liter V8 is bolted to a new 10-speed automatic.
The DFM 5.3-liter combination is standard in the top three trim levels: the SLT, the new AT4 off-road model, and the Denali. You can get the 6.2-liter as an option in any of them, but only if you buy a four-wheel-drive model. There’s no such thing as a two-wheel-drive Sierra with the 6.2-liter V8 this year.
New AT4 Model Did you catch that? You can get the 6.2-liter V8 in the AT4 as an option. This is huge, because the AT4 is the GMC Sierra version of the Chevrolet Trail Boss, and the Trail Boss definitely does not offer the 6.2-liter V8 as an option. Score one for GMC. A big one.
Like the Trail Boss, the Sierra AT4 rides on a factory-developed 2-inch suspension lift and off-road-tuned Rancho monotube shocks. It rolls on the same knobby 18-inch Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires that have a useful bit of sidewall, but they come mounted on different GMC-designed wheels that look sharp. There’s also a locking rear differential, hill descent control and extra skid plates.
The GMC version’s interior is more nicely dressed, with standard leather seating and a front console – items that are two rungs up the option ladder in the LT Trail Boss. The AT4 looks less like a DIY aftermarket job on the outside with its cohesive front-end styling and body-color grille.
A Magic Tailgate The GMC Sierra scores well on the pickup-box front, with generous internal dimensions and 12 standard tie-downs. This year the corner steps built into the ends of its rear bumper have been enlarged to accommodate boots. A spray-in bedliner is standard on the SLT, AT4 and Denali, with an optional carbon-fiber box to come later. The Denali can be equipped with GMC’s clever MultiPro retractable side steps that can pivot forward to offer bed access at the tap of a foot.
And then there’s the new MultiPro six-position tailgate. Standard on the SLT, AT4 and Denali, the MultiPro tailgate has a second hinge in the middle – a tailgate within a tailgate, if you will – and a flip-up panel. The flip-up panel is a load stop that keeps stuff from sliding out in two of the positions, and it becomes a nearly full-width stairstep when deployed with both tailgates down. We could not stop playing with it. This genius bit of truck origami alone will sell some Sierras.
Towing OptionsThe GMC Sierra’s standard tow rating hovers in the 9,500-pound range with standard 3.23 gearing and either of the DFM V8 engines. The Max Trailering package (3.42 gears, stiffer rear suspension, extra cooling, more alternator capacity) raises that to about 11,500 pounds for the 5.3-liter V8, and as much as 12,200 pounds for the 6.2-liter V8 4×4.
GMC’s ProGrade Trailering System comes standard on the SLT, AT4 and Denali, and that includes an enhanced backup camera to ease hookups and an in-vehicle suite of trailer diagnostics and checklists. Also available is an optional tire pressure monitoring system that can monitor the trailer’s tires. An enhanced trailer camera option not only adds two cameras that look down the length of the trailer from the truck’s mirrors, but the ability to mount a compatible GMC accessory camera to the back of the trailer and display its image in the cab.
Both of these are welcome offerings, but the remote trailer camera system’s image – crystal-clear though it may be – can only be viewed for a handful of seconds before it winks out. What’s more, that fleeting image appears on the 8-inch touchscreen, not the rear camera mirror display. The latter is a separate video rearview mirror system that can display a continuous image of what’s behind the truck using a camera on the back of the cab. Also absent is a blind-spot monitoring system that can account for the length of the trailer.
The Driving Experience There’s no doubt that the 6.2-liter V8 can do the business. It’s a stout motor, and the 10-speed transmission felt flawless on our drive. This power team gets with the program when pushed, but it thankfully lacks the sort of overeager throttle jumpiness that can annoy when your aim is to take it easy. For its part, the Dynamic Fuel Management system goes about its business without letting on.
The Bottom LineOur 2019 GMC Sierra Denali 1500 crew-cab 4×4 test truck carried a base price of $58,000, and the 6.2-liter V8 engine added on another $2,495. The only other option was the $5,710 Denali Ultimate package. That got us a surround-view camera, the rear camera mirror display, a head-up display, a power sunroof, 22-inch wheels, and the pivoting GMC MultiPro power side steps. It also included safety gear such as automatic high beams, low-speed automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning and lane keeping assist. Oddly, adaptive cruise control is not available. All told, our loaded truck cost $67,200 with destination charges included.
We see a lot to like about the GMC Sierra compared to the Chevrolet Silverado, but neither one is a segment leader. Like the Silverado, the 2019 GMC Sierra is incrementally better than the truck it replaces. Current owners looking to trade in will probably be happy, and GMC may steal some sales from Chevy on the strength of its trick tailgate and maybe the 6.2-liter V8 availability in the AT4. But from where we sit, it seems unlikely the 2019 GMC Sierra will earn a raft of new converts from outside. No new high bars have been set here.
The 2019 Buick Regal Avenir
With the addition of the Regal Avenir – the fourth Buick globally to get an Avenir trim in less than a year – the momentum behind Buick’s highest expression of luxury continues to grow. Since its introduction last fall, Enclave Avenir has set the pace for Avenir, selling faster than all other Enclave trims and comprising 20 percent of total Enclave sales in the United States. A similar story is unfolding for the new LaCrosse, where Avenir is selling 70 percent faster than other trim levels.
“Avenir sales have exceeded our expectations,” said Phil Brook, vice president, Buick and GMC Marketing. “Buick customers value the exclusive styling, premium features and convenient experience Avenir provides, and we are excited to extend that successful formula to Regal.”
Half of all Regal Sportback buyers are choosing the top trim level, and within the midsize car segment demand is growing for more premium vehicles. Over the past four years, demand has risen 30 percent for midsize cars priced from $30,000 to $40,000, reflecting the increasing customer demand for more luxury, convenience and safety without compromising overall value.
Buick’s first cloud-connected1 Infotainment System debuts on Regal Avenir, enabling embedded apps and enhancing how customers interact with vehicle features such as profiles, available navigation, voice recognition system updates and applications. Owners will now be able to personalize their user preferences and seamlessly take that profile with them into any compatible vehicle.
“Innovation comes standard with Avenir,” said Chris Hay, Product and Pricing director, Buick and GMC. “It is a place for us to showcase our latest ideas to promote occupant well-being before we roll them out to other vehicles in our portfolio. The Enclave Avenir was the first Buick with Evonik Acrylite exterior lighting, a Rear Camera Mirror and an ionizer, and now Buick’s latest infotainment interface will come standard with the Regal Avenir.”
Other Avenir-exclusive interior details include a Whisper Beige interior theme with Ebony accents, unique diamond quilt-stitched front seats, embroidered first-row headrests and Avenir-scripted sill plates.
An Ebony interior theme is also available on Avenir models.
On the exterior, Regal Avenir’s more dramatic look features the unique Avenir three-dimensional mesh upper grille inspired by our award-winning concept cars. Avenir script badging on the front doors and exclusive 19-inch Pearl Nickel wheels create more visual differentiation and complement the Regal’s timeless design.
Numerous safety and driver assistance technologies2 available on other Regal Sportback models come standard on Avenir, including Rear Park Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, LED headlamps with auto leveling, cornering lamps and driver side auto-dimming mirrors. Additional active safety technologies, including Adaptive Cruise Control – Advanced, are also available.
A 250-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 lb-ft of torque, a nine-speed automatic transmission, ample cargo space with a discreet rear opening and tri-folding 40/20/40 rear seats, wireless charging, navigation and Bose eight-speaker premium audio also come standard on Avenir.
Pricing will be announced early fall 2018 when Avenirs arrive at dealers.
With one of the freshest lineups in the industry, Buick has found success offering premium SUVs and cars with sculptural designs, refined performance, modern interiors and thoughtful personal technologies. Buick’s award-winning customer service and sales experience, along with the new Avenir trim, the highest expression of Buick luxury, are attracting new buyers to experience Buick’s unique approach to attainable luxury. More information about Buick vehicles is available at buick.com.
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1Requires Connected Access.
2Read the vehicle owner’s manual for important safety or driver assistance feature limitations and information.
Top Tips to Stay Safer on the Roads
Did you know that distracted driving is becoming the leading cause of traffic accidents? According to the National Safety Council, as many as 40,000 people died in auto accidents last year, which is the highest number since 2007.
One factor that contributes to this statistic is the increasing number of people who own smartphones. Whether it’s texting, talking, eating – or anything that takes the driver’s attention off the road, a crash can be the unfortunate result of that.
The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take to keep yourself safer on the road:
1. Don’t use your phone while driving. If you have to make a call, make sure to link your vehicle’s hands-free system ahead of time if it’s equipped with one. Do check your local laws and regulations on what’s allowed.
2. Plan ahead and allow extra time so you’re not in a rush. If you’re using GPS to navigate, be aware that it may not always be accurate due to road construction or other factors.
3. Observe speed limits. Going over the speed limit means that it takes more time to make an emergency stop, which means you’re more likely to get into an accident.
4. Have a plan in case of an accident. Be sure to carry an up-to-date insurance card, and print out an accident report form like this one and keep it in your glove compartment.
https://www.allstate.com/resources/allstate/attachments/allstate-protection-quide/allstate-accident-report-form.pdf
Sheehan Buick GMC – Green Car Car Tips
With today’s high cost of gas, it makes sense to maintain your vehicle so that it’s greener on the road. I’ll also be safer and more dependable as a result.
Here are some tips to improve gas mileage and help protect the environment:
1. Keep your engine properly maintained for the best performance. When you visit us to perform routine maintenance, your vehicle will burn less fuel, pollute less, and prevent future trouble.
2. Replace your air filter regularly. Our service advisors can help make recommendations as to when you should replace your air filter. A clogged air filter reduces performance and acceleration.
3. Maintain your cooling system. Did you know that your cooling system is designed to work in a wide range of conditions, from hot to below freezing? It’s important to make sure you stay on top of your cooling system maintenance no matter the season.
4. Check your tires. Your TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) will alert you if any of your tires’ air pressures are low. If so, be sure to inflate them to the correct PSI – doing so will improve your fuel economy and reduce tire wear.
5. Use the correct oil. Our service department will ensure that your vehicle gets the right type of oil specified by the manufacturer to optimize performance.
6. Maintain the fuel system. Your service advisor can give you advice on whether your vehicle has a replaceable fuel filter and how often it should be replaced, as well as if you need a fuel system/injector flush for the best performance.
Highlight on the 2018 Buick LaCrosse
Today’s focus is on the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, a striking full-size luxury sedan from Buick.
The new Buick Lacrosse is designed with you in mind – from the seamless design of the dashboard to the carefully selected premium materials. The exterior design exudes a timeless, graceful design that stands out from everyone else on the road.
You have your choice between several drivetrains to suit exactly what you’re looking for, whether it’s economy or power. The standard 2.5L 4-cylinder eAssist engine and 6-speed automatic ensure incredible fuel economy, or you can opt for the 310 HP 3.6L V6 with the new 9-speed automatic. You can even get an advanced AWD system on the V6 model to ensure consistent performance in all road conditions.
When it comes to technology, Buick has all bases covered – the 2018 LaCrosse offers both Apple Carplay and Android Auto for all the technology enthusiasts in your family. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is even available, so you can stay connected.
On the safety front, a comprehensive suite of features keeps you safer than ever – from Forward Automatic Braking and Lane Keep Assist to Lane Change Alert and Side Blind Zone Alert.
Give us a call or visit us today to be among the first to see this incredible new vehicle from Buick.
Tailgating In the Sierra
Tailgating. It’s a uniquely American tradition. The practice of drinking and eating before opposing teams (or forces) duke it out goes as far back as the Civil War. Today football fans around town get up early on game day to eat and drink before the big game. Tailgating has become pretty elaborate and it’s no longer just a 6 pack and a sandwich.
Food is important but so is the vehicle of choice. We think the GMC Sierra is a great choice and here are a few reasons why.
A nice feature available on the Sierra is the Tri-Mode Power Steps that automatically retract when not in use, affording a clean and seamless look to the truck. The Sierra also has a Corner Step rear bumper with integrated handholds to make accessing the box even easier.
The high-strength steel bed instills confidence that your potentially rowdy group won’t do it harm. Like other options on this list, the available LED box lighting will keep your truck bed illuminated. Furthering the storage capabilities, the 60/40-split rear seats fold up onto the back wall, ensuring you can keep your flat screen dry if game-day is a rainy one.The available mobile Wi-Fi Connectivity Package turns the Sierra into a mobile hotspot capable of connecting your group’s devices. And if you’re in the market for the higher-end trim level, the Rear-Seat Entertainment system can provide entertainment for any youths that may not be involved in the grilling and gaming that typically ensues.
Summer BBQ Tips
Summer weather means outdoor dining for many of us. It is as American a tradition as apple pie. We’ve compiled these tips to help you with grilling up a delicious meal for friends and family.
Preheat your grill 15 to 25 minutes before you start cooking to make sure it reaches the right temperature (and to kill any bacteria). Your grill should be 400-450°F for high, 350-400°F for medium-high, 300-350°F for medium and 250-300°F for low heat. A properly heated grill sears foods on contact, keeps the insides moist and helps prevent sticking. While searing doesn’t “seal in” the juices (contrary to popular belief ), it does create improved flavors through caramelization.
Preheat the GrillIt’s easier to remove debris when the grill is hot, so after preheating, use a long-handled wire grill brush on your grill rack to clean off charred debris from prior meals. Scrape again immediately after use.
Oil the GrillEven on a clean grill, lean foods may stick when placed directly on the rack. Reduce sticking by oiling your hot grill rack with a vegetable oil-soaked paper towel: hold it with tongs and rub it over the rack. (Do not use cooking spray on a hot grill.)
Check TemperatureThe best way to know if protein is fully cooked is to check its internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer.
Let it RestLet finished meats rest on a clean platter, tented with foil, for about 10 minutes before carving so juices can redistribute evenly.
Tire maintenance tips
Don’t underestimate the tires on your vehicle – after all, they’re the only thing connecting your car with the road.
Proper tire maintenance is important – fortunately a few simple tips is all it takes:
1. Keep your wheels and tires aligned and balanced. If they’re not, they could wear prematurely, resulting in having to replace your tires sooner than necessary.
2. Maintain proper tire inflation. New models have TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems) that do the job for you, and you’ll see a warning light in your dash if low pressure is detected. For models without the system, a tire pressure gauge costs just a few dollars and lets you check pressure easily.
3. Rotate your tires. Your vehicle’s manual will specify the proper interval for tire rotation, and our service department will be happy to help with this. Keeping tires rotated ensure that you maximize their useful life.
Visit our tire maintenance page for more tips and tricks.
Protection Plans
Here at Sheehan Buick GMC we understand how important it is to protection your investment. We offer several protection plans for your vehicle.
Protection coverage can provide the convenience and comfort you desire to enhance your vehicle ownership experience. If a covered breakdown occurs, you’ll be protected even if it happens after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. Comprehensive information is provided below, including coverage details and additional benefits in the 30 second videos.
Gap CoverageCovers the gap between your vehicle’s unpaid finance balance and the settlement of the insurer. It’s added protection for both you and your vehicle.
Tire & Wheel ProtectionBe prepared for the unexpected and keep on moving with added protection for your tires and wheels.
PrePaid MaintenanceTake the guesswork out of maintaining your vehicle and keep it running strong.
Appearance GuardHelp protect the luxury and style of your Buick.
