2011 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2011 GMC Sierra lineup, like its Chevrolet Silverado sibling, offers a diverse mix of models ranging from bare bones work trucks up to its fancy Sierra Denali trim and everything in between.

You want fuel economy? The Sierra XFE crew cab is rated at 22 mpg highway, and the Sierra Hybrid, which is fitted with GM's 2-Mode hybrid system, achieves as much as 22 mpg combined and is capable of towing as much as 6200 pounds.

The Sierra is available with a range of engines, from a 4.3-liter V-6 up to a 403 horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8, mated to either four or six speed automatic transmissions. Sierra 1500 trim packages include Work Truck, SL (crew cab only), SLE and SLT in rear-wheel, four-wheel or all-wheel drive (Denali only) configurations. There are three cab styles (regular, extended and crew cab), three cargo box lengths up to eight feet, and five separate suspension options. Not much has changed for the 2011 Sierra with the exception of a new Gray Green Metallic exterior color, OnStar 9.0 and enhancements designed to help reduce wind noise in the truck's cabin.

Bodystyles: Full-size truckEngines: 4.3L V-6, 4.8L V-8, 5.3L V-8 (two versions), 6.2L V-8Transmissions: 6-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic Models: Sierra 1500 (Work Truck, SL (crew cab only), SLE, SLT, Denali, Hybrid)

The 2011 Sierra lineup is essentially a carryover from the previous model year. A few new additions have been made, including new Gray Green Metallic exterior color, GM's latest OnStar 9.0 and modifications were made to help reduce wind noise in the Sierra's cabin. Overall, the Sierra's diverse mix of powertrains, cabs and suspensions make it a formidable offering in the segment.

With its brawny, broad shouldered stance and in-your-face grille, the Sierra looks the part of tough truck. All models with the exception of the Work Truck come with a distinctive chrome hood molding, and a variety of wheel options are available. The Dena

GMC makes a lot of noise about the Sierra's 'pure pickup' interior touches, which feature larger controls and handles designed to operate easier with gloves. The base trim level is a bit on the bland side, but if you want better amenities, you can step up

The 2011 GMC Sierra offers a diverse mix of powertrain options ranging from a 4.3-liter V-6 rated at 195 horsepower up to GM's 6.2-liter V-8 (standard on Denali) that outputs a healthy 403 horsepower. Engines are mated to either a four speed or six-speed automatic, and the Sierra can tow as much as 10,700 pounds in its highest configuration. While it isn't the nimblest truck when it comes to turning circle, the Sierra's overall ride, which features five suspension configurations ranging from off-road to on-road themed, is more than acceptable for a full-size truck.

GM's full-size trucks and SUVs are among the safest on the market, and the 2011 Sierra is no different. Not surprisingly, GM's StabiliTrak stability control system with rollover mitigation technology forms the backbone of the Sierra's safety suite of features. Seat-mounted side air bags and head curtain side air bags are standard equipment, and the truck's available safety belt pretensioners are designed to activate in rear end crash situations.

13-15 mpg city/19-22 mpg highwayHybrid: 21 mpg city/22 mpg highway

• Diverse overall lineup
• Fuel efficient models
• Smooth ride
• Multiple powertrains

• Base interior needs updating
• Cabin storage a bit wanting
• Balky turning circle

At the top of the full-size truck heap

• Ford F-Series
• Dodge Ram
• Toyota Tundra
• Nissan Titan