GMC Sierra Denali, 2014

 

•  GMC Sierra Denali, 2014

Entering its third generation, the GMC Sierra Denali is the most luxurious and technologically advanced GMC half-ton pickup.

Design cues for the 2014 Sierra Denali follow the formula that attracted two-in-10 GMC buyers to Denali vehicles last year. On the exterior, the truck has a signature Denali chrome grille, unique 20-inch chrome wheels, unique interior decorative trim, a polished stainless steel exhaust outlet and body-color front and rear bumpers. Denali-specific interior details include script on the bright door sills and embossed into the front seats and real aluminum trim.

Sierra's 6.2L V-8,  2014 Sierra SLT models. With the engine, the Sierra is expected to have a class-leading maximum trailering capacity of 12,000 pounds. Like every 2014 Sierra, it offers more power and higher expected efficiency than its predecessor thanks to a trio of technologies including direct injection, active fuel management and variable valve timing.

GMC Sierra Denali's high-tech interior also features an exclusive eight-inch Customizable Driver Display that can show relevant settings, audio and navigation information in the instrument panel. Sierra Denali's standard eight-inch Color Touch navigation radio with Intelli link, located above the center console, serves as the main hub for Bluetooth-connected phones and portable devices connected through five standard USB ports.

Other features standard on GMC Sierra Denali include projector-style headlamps with LED signature daytime running lights, a Bose audio system, heated and cooled leather front bucket seats, a heated steering wheel, front and rear park assist and a power sliding rear window with defogger.

A 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 is standard for the 2014 Sierra Denali. It produces 355 horsepower and offers better EPA-estimated fuel economy (23 mpg highway on 2WD models) than any V-8 or turbocharged V-6 pickup on the market.

GMC Sierra Denali with 2 option packages, including a Z71 Off-Road Package (4WD only) with monotube Rancho shocks, Hill Descent Control and transfer case shield, and a Driver Alert Package that includes Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and patented Safety Alert Seat Technology.

GMC Sierra, 2013

 

 

 

•  GMC Sierra, 2013

The all-new 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 full-size pickup is the most powerful, most advanced and most refined truck in the brand's 110-year history. GMC Sierra's bold new exterior houses one of three all-new EcoTec3 engines, a fully updated cabin with available next-generation IntelliLink connectivity and other features designed for the most discerning truck owners.

In addition to all-new design and technology, the 2014 Sierra boasts the longest list of standard features ever for a full-size GMC pickup. From connectivity solutions, to a standard tie-down system in the rear, to the segment's only standard projector beam headlamps, many premium features are found on each and every all-new Sierra.

The New Eco Tec3 engines
GMC Sierra's engine portfolio is updated for 2014 with the goal of increased in power, torque and fuel efficiency across the board. There will be a 4.3L V-6, a 5.3L V-8 and a 6.2L V-8 offered, all from a shared EcoTec3 engine family. Each engine features standard direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management, which means they seamlessly switch to run on four cylinders during light-load driving to save fuel.

The increased power and efficiency of the new engines are the result of more than 10 million hours of sophisticated computer modeling, more than half of which were used to make the best of the combustion process.

The new 4.3L V-6 EcoTec3 engine will offer improved torque and towing capacity for the six in 10 truck owners who tow.

Today's GMC Sierra offers the best V-8 fuel economy in the industry and the new 5.3L EcoTec3 engine features significant updates intended to make it even more efficient. The available 6.2L V-8 EcoTec3 is engineered to provide outstanding capability.

SAE-certified horsepower and torque ratings and EPA fuel economy estimates for the new Sierra are not yet available, but are expected to be finalized early next year.

With the new engine designs and additional developments, customers should expect GMC Sierra's second-generation Active Fuel Management to be more seamless and capable of operating longer in four-cylinder mode.

All three engines use lightweight aluminum blocks and heads and are mated with durable six-speed automatic transmissions. A "cruise grade braking" feature down-shifts the transmission on downgrades, which is intended to reduce brake wear. V-8 models use new, larger 9.5- and 9.76-inch rear axles with the strength to accommodate the engines' higher output. Final power and torque ratings will be announced later.

Duralife brake rotors and electric power steering
Strong brakes are important for stopping trucks, whether they're full of people, payload or both. The 2014 Sierra features four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife brake rotors, which feature a hardened and strengthened surface to reduce corrosion. Duralife rotors - a GM-exclusive technology - are expected to last twice as long as conventional rotors and provide quieter braking with less vibration.

The 2014 Sierra also uses electric power steering. An electric motor in place of an engine-driven hydraulic pump saves fuel and allows for tuning that's expected to result in a more consistent, crisp steering feel and plenty of assist for parking maneuvers.

The new standard in truck interiors
Premium materials, attention to detail and purposeful technology define GMC Sierra's all-new cabin. New soft-touch materials and available aluminum trim line an interior that's focused on usable and productive space.

"Truck owners want a well-crafted cabin, but also one that still feels like a truck," said Helen Emsley, Sierra interior design director. "They want a purposeful interior, not one that's flowing like you'd find in a car or crossover."

Sierra has an upright instrument panel designed for visibility and accessibility. Knobs and buttons are large, legible and within reach. All knobs are coated using a rubber-over-mold technology, so they're easy to grip even through gloves.

A new instrument cluster on all models features six gauges with an available centrally located, 4.2-inch color Driver Information Center with vehicle status information, a trip computer, and other information, like radio and navigation.

A second, high-mounted glove box with a flat floor joins the traditional box below. Each of GMC Sierra's doors has storage crafted to hold most beverage containers and other personal items. Along the center stack and center console are additional cupholders, discreet compartments large enough for most laptop computers, and connectivity options. Sierra is available with a 110-volt outlet, up to five USB ports, four 12-volt outlets and an SD card slot.

"Sierra sets a new standard for what's expected of a pickup truck interior," said DiSalle. "Our customers told us how they use their trucks and we listened. The combination of comfort, safety, space and technology is unprecedented in the segment."

Available IntelliLink connectivity uses an available high-definition, fully reconfigurable eight-inch color touchscreen with an intuitive layout and easy-to-read icons that control audio features, a Pandora app, Bluetooth phone features, and available navigation with all-new map displays. Many of the system's features can be controlled by voice command, allowing the driver to keep eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.

GMC Sierra's seats use dual-density foam designed to stay comfortable over long hours and continue to look great after years of use. Leather and cloth will be offered, and Sierra's new high-wear cloth is designed to last longer and resist staining. A spilled drink will bead on the fabric, not soak in. Heated seats are available with cloth seats and standard with leather.

New door and bed configurations
For the first time on Extended Cab models, the 2014 Sierra has new front-hinged rear doors with outside pull handles at the rear, providing improved access in tight parking spaces. Unlike trucks with rear-hinged doors, Sierra's layout allows rear passengers to enter and exit the vehicle with the front doors remaining closed.

Crew Cab customers, who represent more than 60 percent of retail GMC Sierra customers, can choose between two bed lengths; in addition to the current 5-foot, 8-inch box, a new 6-foot, 6-inch box is available. Regular cabs continue to be available with the 6-foot, 6-inch or 8-foot box lengths, while the extended cab will come exclusively with a 6-foot, 6-inch box.

Cargo box innovations
Sierra's rear bumper features standard corner steps that make climbing into the bed easy, regardless of whether the tailgate is up or down. The steps are paired with grips formed into the top of each bed side. Four movable upper tie downs are also standard. They can be placed in nine different locations and can bear a 500-pound (227 kg) load. Available LED cargo lights integrated beneath the bed rails will illuminate the bed when a tonneau cover is in place. The available EZ Lift and Lower tailgate uses an integrated torsion bar and damper to ease lifting and lowering.

Driver Alert Technology
A suite of active safety features will be optional for the 2014 Sierra, including Forward Collision Alert, which uses a forward-facing camera to notify the driver of an imminent collision, and Lane Departure Warning, which uses the same camera to track the truck's position in relation to a road's lane markers.

The camera technology was recently named a "Top Ten Tech Breakthrough of 2012" by Popular Mechanics.

Paired with Forward Collision Alert and Land Departure Warning is GMC's first-ever Driver Alert Seat, which generates vibrating pulse patterns on the left and/or right side of the lower seat cushion bolster to alert the driver of potential dangers, such as an un-signaled lane change or approaching another vehicle too quickly. According to GM research, the seat's vibrations may direct driver attention to the location of a potential collision more quickly and accurately than audible alerts. Drivers have the option of selecting either audible or vibrating alerts.

Quieter, stronger, more aerodynamic
Quietness doesn't only come from factors within the cabin. The 2014 Sierra features new aerodynamic measures that benefit fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise. Updated mirrors that reduce wind turbulence, triple-sealed inlaid doors, as well as roof and tailgate design features all help air flow smoothly quietly over the GMC Sierra. Additional sealing around the grille, headlights and space between the cab and box are also designed to lower drag for the new trucks, along with new aerodynamic spats located in front of the rear wheels.

Updates to Sierra's body and chassis are designed to improve ride and handling, comfort and capability. The fully boxed frame uses high-strength steel and hydroforming to provide more strength and rigidity with less weight. New cab structures incorporate high-strength steel in the A-pillars, B-pillars, roof rails and rocker panels, while ultra-high-strength steel segments of the rocker panels provide added protection for shallow offset crashes.

GMC Sierra's hood is aluminum, saving approximately 17 pounds versus a comparable steel hood. At the rear, a roll-formed box is stronger, lighter and more durable than a traditional stamped steel box.

GMC Sierra uses aluminum for some suspension components for additional rigidity and weight saving, and new lightweight wheels are paired with low-rolling-resistance tires in most applications. The tires, along with new shear-style and redesigned hydraulic cab mounts, are designed to help reduce noise and vibration in the cabin.

Attention to detail
GMC designers approached the exterior of the 2014 Sierra with respect for its predecessors, evolving its familiar shape while adding distinctive details like standard projector headlamps, available LED signature accent lighting and detailed new grilles. All GMC Sierra models have chrome grille surrounds and premium black wheel arch moldings. Different trim levels feature chrome belt moldings, mirror caps and door handles, as well as unique wheel designs and grille details.

Other new features include available front Park Assist, in addition to the rear Park Assist already available, and a sliding rear window with a defroster.

Distinctive All-Terrain model
Sierra All-Terrain has all-new styling for 2014. It includes a unique exterior appearance with a painted grille and less chrome, and is available as an extended cab or crew cab in a limited number of colors.

Standard equipment for GMC Sierra All-Terrain includes the Z71 off-road suspension with monotube Rancho shocks, hill descent control, front recovery hooks, a transfer case shield and unique wheels and tires, along with an automatic locking rear differential that reacts in milliseconds in low-traction situations to improve safety and confidence on wet, snowy or muddy surfaces.

GMC Sierra All Terrain is available exclusively with an ebony interior and with front bucket seats on SLE models. A carbon fiber-look seat accent is standard on SLT models.

GMC Terrain Denali, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  GMC Terrain Denali, 2013

GMC is expanding its exclusive Denali sub-brand with the debut of the 2013 Terrain Denali, bringing a new level of style and power to the luxury small SUV.

More power, same efficiency
With the introduction of the Terrain Denali, GMC also announced a new 3.6-liter V-6 engine with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing will replace the current 3.0-liter V-6 engine in Terrain lineup for the 2013 model year. SAE certified at 301 horsepower (224 kW) and 272 lb.-ft. (369 Nm) of torque, this engine makes more power and torque, but is expected to deliver fuel economy equal to its predecessor.

The new V-6 uses lightweight components that contribute to the Terrain's fuel efficiency while boosting its horsepower. An integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design saves about 13 pounds compared to a non-integrated design, while a composite intake manifold saves about 5.5 pounds vs. an aluminum intake. Additionally, a lightweight structural front cover and high-strength connecting rods save additional weight.

Terrain's standard Ecotec 2.4-liter I-4 with direct injection and continuously variable valve timing is also available for buyers looking to combine Denali's high-end appointments with a best-in-class 32 highway mpg (2WD model). Front-wheel drive is standard on GMC Terrain Denali, with all-wheel drive available for both engines.

New dual-flow dampers are exclusive to the GMC Terrain Denali's suspension system. This technology provides a smoother ride and improved handling by controlling suspension dampening across a broader range of driving conditions.

Signature design cues
Inside and out, the 2013 GMC Terrain Denali features high-end details. Models with the 2.4L engine feature 18-inch wheels, while the V-6 engine is paired with 19-inch wheels. Other Denali-specific exterior features:
    Signature chrome grille
    Satin chrome accents
    Body color front and rear fascias
    Body color rocker panels with satin chrome molding
    New headlamp and taillamp designs
    Dual chrome finish exhaust outlets (single outlet on 2.4L)

GMC Terrain Denali's cabin updates are highlighted by soft-touch Jet Black leather, which lines the seats and door inserts. Contrast stitching and red accent lighting contribute to an inviting interior. Other Denali-exclusive interior details include:

    Soft-touch instrument panel with French stitching
    Leather-wrapped steering wheel with smoked mahogany wood accents
    Embossed Denali logos on front seatbacks
    Smoked mahogany wood trim accents
    Denali illuminated front sill plates
    Eight-way power driver and passenger seat

Class-leading technology
Terrain Denali comes standard with many of GMC's leading technologies, including a color touch radio with IntelliLink. This new infotainment system features a reconfigurable home screen; intuitive voice commands; Bluetooth smartphone integration; control of streaming internet radio apps such as Pandora and Stitcher; and iPod controls with Gracenote music database technology.

Forward collision alert and lane departure warning are standard on GMC Terrain Denali. They use the industry's first single-camera crash-avoidance system to visually and audibly warn drivers when a collision is imminent or the vehicle crosses a lane marker.

In addition, side blind zone and rear cross traffic alert help avoid collisions by using radar to watch spots the driver may not be able to see - and provide visible and audible warnings.

Convenience features, such as a programmable power liftgate, are standard on GMC Terrain Denali. At the touch of a button, owners can access the vehicle's 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space (behind the first row), while a memory function stops the liftgate at a chosen height to help shorter drivers or accommodate low garage heights.

Available technologies include color touch navigation and a rear-seat entertainment system.
As with every new GMC, the Terrain Denali comes with six free months of OnStar's Directions and Connections plan. It includes Automatic Crash Response, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link, stolen vehicle assistance and remote door unlock.

GMC Acadia, 2013

 

 

 

• GMC Acadia, 2013

GMC unveiled the new 2013 Acadia and Acadia Denali at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, highlighting a new exterior and safety features including the industry's first front center air bag.

GMC Acadia, which launched in 2007 as GMC's first crossover and defined a segment that has since surged in popularity, had the best sales in its five-year history in 2011. The Denali model, added in mid-2010, broadened Acadia's appeal to luxury customers with its combination of functionality and style.

GMC Acadia retains the interior functionality popular with families, including the SmartSlide seating system, which allows easy access to the third row for both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. Likewise, both the second and third row still fold flat for class-leading maximum cargo space, including the ability to carry 48-inch-wide sheet goods, such as drywall and plywood.

Confident design
First impressions are everything, and the 2013 Acadia was developed to make a strong one. A chiseled, three-bar grille sits prominently in the new, more upright design.
Diffused LED running lamps lend a premium look to the GMC Acadia and are standard on all models, regardless of whether standard projector beam or optional HID headlamps are selected. New taillamp detailing reflects the advancements up front.
The new GMC Acadia gets other subtle exterior design updates, including wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. New 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheel patterns complement the vehicle's lines and stance.

The GMC Acadia's refined interior uses upgraded soft-touch materials, with French stitching that adds a tailored look and red ambient light flowing across the dashboard. SLT and Denali models get aluminum accents on the center console, doors and dash.

Industry-exclusive safety
The redesigned Acadia will be the first vehicle on the market with GMC's new front center air bag system, created to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. It deploys from the inboard side of the driver's seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger.

Standard on the GMC Acadia Denali and available on other models are Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems. These systems use radar to watch spots the driver may not be able to see - and provide visible and audible warnings to help prevent collisions.

Every GMC Acadia model also comes standard with six months of OnStar's Directions and Connections service, which includes automatic crash response, turn-by-turn navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link and remote door unlocking. OnStar's RemoteLink smartphone app allows for remote vehicle status reports, extended locking and unlocking capability, and remote start functionality to distance limited only by cellular phone service, rather than the few hundred feet of the standard key fob.

Technology leader
The 2013 Acadia's redesigned infotainment functions feature capacitive touch controls that use electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects such as the touch of a finger.
GMC's Color Touch Radio - first introduced on the 2012 Terrain - is standard in the GMC Acadia. Available IntelliLink allows customers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones for hands-free calling through the audio system and Bluetooth streaming of popular internet radio favorites Pandora and Stitcher. IntelliLink also allows voice control of USB-connected iPods for easy access to stored music.

Other audio system features include HD radio capability, a photo viewer and a standard rear-vision camera with dynamic guide lines that will display on the high-definition screen.
Mechanically, the 2013 Acadia benefits from a next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with better shift response and improved drivability.
GMC Acadia's most-popular options, including rear-seat entertainment, a Dual SkyScape sunroof and a trailering package, continue to be available.

Exclusive Denali returns
GMC Acadia's popular top-of-the-line Denali trim represents 30 percent of sales, so a high priority was placed on adding premium amenities and refining Denali's signature design cues. New or redesigned exterior additions:
    New, three-dimensional polished grille
    Redesigned lower front and rear fascias
    Body-color lower cladding and rocker moldings, rear fascia and fender flares
    Unique body-side moldings with chrome accents and Denali badges
    Dual flow-through chrome exhaust outlets integrated into the rear fascia
    20-inch machined wheels

Inside, Denali adds standard comfort and safety features:
    Perforated leather seating and Denali-specific Cocoa Dune upholstery color
    Leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood inserts and power tilt/telescope
    Aluminum trim accents
    Heated and cooled front seats
    Accent lighting in footwells and lighted sill plates with Denali logo
    Color Touch navigation
    Side Blind Zone and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
    Dual SkyScape sunroof system, with sliding front sunroof and fixed rear section
    All-wheel drive

GMC capability
All 2013 GMC Acadia models are powered by a fuel-efficient, 3.6L direct injection V-6 with variable valve timing, producing 288 horsepower (215 kW) and 270 lb-ft (266 Nm) of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the added control of all-wheel drive is available. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds (2268 kg).

The 2013 GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali will be built at the Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant in Lansing, Mich. Pricing, availability and more details will be announced closer to the vehicle's on-sale date in late 2012.

GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GMC Sierra All Terrain HD Concept, 2011

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept is an exploration of heavy-duty truck capability combined with greater off-road versatility. It is highlighted by a bold exterior design, enhanced all-terrain suspension and premium details expected of a GMC - all designed to enable greater access to off-road destinations.

The new 2011 Sierra HD underpins the All Terrain HD concept, with a modified, production-based 4WD chassis and the Duramax diesel/Allison 1000 six-speed powertrain. The enhanced suspension and unique body dimensions, including increased ground clearance and wider track, as well as greater approach/departure angles, deliver off-road capability while maintaining HD levels of payload and trailering capacity.

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD features a unique five-foot, eight-inch Crew Cab/short box body configuration that supports a wheels-at-the-corners proportion. Shorter in overall length than production Sierra HD models, the concept's dimensions contribute to greater approach/departure angles. 

 

The off-road elements:

•     Wider, 73-inch (1,853 mm) track for greater stability
•     Approximately 3 inches (76 mm) greater ground clearance
•     Custom front upper and lower control arms
•     Specially constructed Fox off-road shocks with remote fluid reservoirs (integrated in the wheel house liners)
•     Front and rear jounce shocks
•     Electronic front stabilizer bar disconnection
•     35-inch-tall BFGoodrich KM2 "mud terrain" tires mounted on 20-inch machined aluminum wheels
•     Full composite underbody protection.

Purposeful design
From every angle, the All Terrain HD looks the part of a dedicated off-road performer, with bold, accentuated features complemented by a wide stance and tall profile.

Streamlined bumpers are designed to enhance approach/departure angles and incorporate frame-mounted recovery hooks - with integrated skid plates. A large, airflow-optimized grille maximizes cooling in tough conditions, while a forced-induction hood delivers more air to the Duramax diesel engine.

Large fender flares stretch away from the body to cover the 35-inch-tall BFGoodrich tires. At the rear, the cargo box features lockable, lighted storage compartments, along with a number of tie-down cleats, including a pair in the bed floor and two on each side of the bed. A non-slip rubber pad is used on the tailgate, while two special compartments inside the cargo box provide access to a 110-volt power outlet and air compressor. A composite bed liner with a unique "circuit board" pattern provides a protective cover for the bed.

Motorized, deployable assist steps for the cab and cargo bed make it easier to enter and exit the All Terrain HD, while maximizing ground clearance during off-road driving. It also incorporates a number of industrial-grade lighting elements to provide greater visibility for safer driving where stars may be the only other source of illumination.

 

The lighting details:

•     High-intensity LED headlamp, taillamp and fog lamp lighting mounted in impact-resistant composite housings and featuring edge-lit illumination
•     High-intensity LED park and turn signal lamps
•     Smooth-appearance front marker lamps integrated behind the top edge of the windshield glass
•     Integrated center high-mounted stop lamp and rear marker lights mounted at the top edge of the rear window glass
•     LED floodlights for the cargo bed and assist steps.

The All Terrain HD is painted Iridium Metallic - a dark charcoal color that reveals a reddish, anodized inflection when viewed from certain angles. It complements other anodized and satin-metal finishes on the exterior, which give the truck a more precise and functional appearance.

The interior matches the exterior aesthetic, with premium appointments and increased functionality, including enhanced lighting. It conveys solidity and precision, blending accent details such as stainless steel mesh and satin chrome with an amplified expression of the All Terrain's premium features. Two-tone dark gray leather seats, matched with embossed carbon fiber-style leather on the seating surfaces, have red contrast stitching. Additional leather-wrapped interior features include the steering wheel, instrument panel and center console.

All Terrain chassis and suspension
Based on the chassis of the 2011 Sierra HD trucks, the All Terrain HD features a fully boxed steel frame with exceptional strength and torsional stiffness. It incorporates the production models' new independent front suspension and asymmetrical rear leaf-spring suspensions, but with a wider 73-inch (1,853 mm) track (front and rear) that enhances stability during off-road and highway driving. A production Sierra 2500HD has front and rear tracks of 68.8 inches (1,748 mm) and 67.3 inches (1,709 mm), respectively.

An increased ride height provides greater ground clearance of 21.1 inches (536 mm) at the rockers and 11.8 inches (300 mm) at the skid plates, while specialized Fox off-road shocks deliver exceptional damping on tough terrain. They were created specially for the All Terrain HD, with specific valving. The shocks feature visible, remote fluid reservoirs - connected to the shock bodies via custom hoses - mounted in the wheel house liners and are matched with front and rear jounce shocks. They add additional compression damping and more controlled rebound, which helps increase control, stability and handling.

The All Terrain HD also features electronic disconnection of the front stabilizer bar, which enables greater crawling capability on rocky terrain. The driver simply pushes a button inside the cab to disconnect it from the front suspension.

A full composite underbody protection system shields the All Terrain HD's transmission, drivetrain, fuel tank, exhaust system and axle differentials. It starts with the front bumper, which rolls beneath the truck and leads to a composite, integral belly pan that covers a front suspension skid plate. Protective covers are also mounted beneath the driveline components, while the front and rear differentials feature direct-mounted skid plates. The rear bumper is integrated with the rear skid plate.

The Powertrain

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD concept is propelled by the new, production 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V-8 and Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission powertrain combination offered in the 2011 Sierra HD trucks. The Duramax is rated at 397 horsepower (296 kW) and 765 lb.-ft. of torque (1,037 Nm).

The powerful 6.6L Duramax is more fuel-efficient - with up to 11-percent greater fuel economy than previous versions - and reduces NOx emissions by up to 63 percent. The powertrain's efficiency is assisted by the Allison 1000 transmission, which requires less engine power to funnel torque to the axles. It also incorporates a "smart" exhaust brake feature that helps save wear on the brakes on downhill grades, a feature available on production Sierra HDs.

With the same proven powertrain as production Sierra HD trucks, the All Terrain HD delivers comparable hauling and towing capabilities:

•     Estimated payload capacity of 2,700 pounds (1,225 kg)
•     Estimated conventional towing capacity of 13,000 pounds (5,896 kg)
•     Estimated fifth-wheel towing capacity of 15,600 pounds (7,076 kg).

The GMC Sierra All Terrain HD also features four-wheel drive, with automatic locking front and rear differentials, while the 14-inch, four-wheel disc brake system from the production Sierra HD provides the stopping power for this unique off-roader.

GMC SIERRA ALL TERRAIN HD CONCEPT SPECIFICATIONS

•     Body style / driveline: 5-passenger crew cab, 3/4-ton 4-wheel-drive heavy-duty pickup
•     Construction: body on frame
•     Engine: Duramax 6.6L turbo-diesel
•     Horsepower: 397 hp (296 kW) @ 3000 rpm
•     Torque: 765 Nm (1037 lb.-ft) @ 1600 rpm
•     Transmission: Allison 1000 six-speed automatic
•     Suspension,
•         front: long- and short-arm independent with torsion bars
•         rear: semi-elliptic two-stage multi-leaf spring
•     Steering type: integral power-assisted recirculating ball
•     Brakes (type): power-assisted, Hydroboost brake-apply system, four-wheel disc, four-wheel ABS
•     Brake rotor (diameter x thickness),
•         front: 13.97" x 1.57" / 355 x 40 mm
•         rear: 14.17" x 1.34" / 360 x 34 mm
•     Wheel size and type: 20 x 9.5-inch aluminum
•     Tire type and size: BFGoodrich KM2 325/60R20
•     Wheelbase: 148.6" / 3774 mm
•     Overall length: 230.9" / 5864 mm
•     Overall width: 83" / 2106 mm
•     Overall height: 81.8" / 2077 mm
•     Track,
•         front: 73" / 1853 mm
•         rear: 73" / 1853 mm
•     Minimum ground clearance,
•         21.1" / 536 mm (at rocker panels)
•         11.8" / 300 mm (at skid plates)
•     Approach angle,
•         front: 39°
•         rear: 31°
•     Maximum payload (est.): 2700 lbs. / 1225 kg
•     Maximum towing capacity (est.),
•         ball hitch: 13,000 lbs. / 5896 kg
•         fifth-wheel hitch(est.): 15,600lbs. / 7076 kg

GMC Granite Concept, 2010

 

 

 

GMC Granite Concept, 2010

Combining a decidedly urban-industrial design aesthetic with functionality aimed at young professionals, the GMC Granite Concept takes the brand's trademark capability in a new, more progressive direction. It was introduced at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
If brought to market, the GMC Granite Concept would be the smallest GMC ever - but has been optimized to feel much larger. Its length is a full 2 feet (0.6 m) shorter than the new Terrain compact crossover, but its open interior was designed to be spacious and flexible to fit the needs of active people. Generous cargo space and unique flipping/folding seats, for example, enable a mountain bike to be loaded completely inside with the tailgate closed.

Like GMC's current lineup of trucks, SUVs and crossovers, the GMC Granite Concept delivers style and capability, with advanced features, high-quality materials and exceptional attention to detail. An industrial-influenced exterior is combined with a spacious interior that features precise instruments and leading-edge technology. The climate system, navigation and infotainment technologies, for example, are viewed via an extra-wide, next-generation organic light-emitting diode technology that is more dynamic than the conventional screens used in most production vehicles.

Industrial-inspired exterior
A cadre of young designers drew upon the preferences of young, urban professionals like themselves, who are very social and active. They are more likely to take friends to clubs and load outdoor gear on weekend excursions than to haul lumber or tow a boat. With those requirements in mind, they sketched out the dimensions of the GMC Granite Concept accordingly. Its 103.6-inch (2,631 mm) wheelbase is comparable to a Chevrolet Cobalt, but its 161.3-inch (4,097 mm) overall length is more than a foot shorter. Its size gives the GMC Granite Concept exceptional maneuverability, even within narrow urban streets.

The GMC Granite Concept's comparatively short body length is complemented by a wide, 70.3-inch (1,786 mm) overall width and a tall, 60.5-inch (1,536 mm) height. Those dimensions create unique proportions that depart dramatically from conventional minivan, SUV or crossover designs. "The Design team leveraged the best attributes from different segments: SUV, minivan and crossover, and mixed them with a commercial chic aesthetic. We feel this redefines the premium class of vehicles we call urban utility vehicles," said Lyon.
GMC Granite Concept has four doors, hinged on each side to open like a set of French doors. There's no pillar between the front and rear doors, making the GMC Granite Concept easier to enter, exit and load, even with bulky items.
In keeping with the vehicle's urban theme, the exterior of the GMC Granite Concept has a series of complex, intersecting planes and angles, creating the impression of an industrial machine - an object created out of necessity, but admired for its precision and functional aesthetics.
A forward-angling motif that cuts through the door panels, starting high and behind the doors and cutting to the center of the front door, suggests motion, as does a high beltline and tapered side glass. A rear spoiler is integrated into the roof and extends slightly above the rear glass. Other angles and planes of the exterior appear carefully metal-crafted.

Up front, GMC's signature grille design is flanked by headlamps that sweep back into the fenders, further suggesting motion. The headlamps and fog lamps are set at the far edges of the front-end bodywork, accentuating the GMC Granite Concept's planted stance. At the rear, the vehicle's planes and angles come together tightly, showing careful attention to detail. Other exterior elements include prominent taillamps with a multi-layer appearance and LED lighting technology; and a centered exhaust outlet with a brushed metal tip.

There is no chrome on the exterior of the GMC Granite Concept; all the trim has a satin or brushed metal finish, accenting the industrial look. Large, 20-inch wheels - wrapped in Bridgestone tires - were tailored within the fenders for a low, sporty stance. The exterior color of the GMC Granite Concept is metallic gray that evokes the look of the material for which this concept was named.
Mechanically minded, highly functional interior

The interior was inspired by the design of aircraft-type mechanical instruments and precision tools. That is most apparent on the dashboard and instrument cluster, where gauges were modeled after finely crafted timepieces. A compass incorporated into the "barrel" surrounding the speedometer moves with every turn of the vehicle, providing an at-a-glance directional confirmation.

 

Red backlighting illuminates the gauges, while a panel of organic light-emitting diode screens is the foundation for the vehicle's navigation, infotainment, phone and climate control readouts. The screens represent the next generation in vehicle information displays, with bright, multidimensional readouts and intuitive controls that give the GMC Granite Concept a modern feel.

Integrated within GMC Granite Concept are unmistakable GMC cues, including a center stack wing motif similar to that of the new GMC Terrain. A prominent center console runs between the front and rear seats, with ports to plug in popular portable electronic devices, as well as storage compartments large enough for a laptop computer.

The center console also houses a unique transmission shifter. Rather than a handle that actuates within a conventional gate, it is a simple, space-saving knob that rotates with the precise clicks of a torque wrench. The gear selections are confirmed via LED indicators.

Among the most functional elements of the GMC Granite Concept are reconfigurable seats. The front passenger and right rear seats flip up and fold in toward the center console, creating a long, unobstructed storage space. The GMC Granite Concept functionally addresses the needs of young professionals and their activities without compromises.

The cargo area includes a number of compartments to store items out of sight. Cargo hold-down provisions are built into the cargo area and the seatbacks have clasps that can be used when the seats are upright or folded to help secure cargo.

The GMC Granite Concept's interior is finished with dark tones on the bottom and complementing, lighter colors on top, including suede-like Nubuck material on the seats and instrument panel. The interior is further accented by satin-finish and anodized trim. The instrument panel gives the impression of a command console, with driver-focused instruments and controls set in an anodized panel.