GMC has introduced the Sierra Elevation, a new trim level of the Sierra that will sit between the ALT and AT4 offering customers a rugged pickup with a shot of off-road chops to go with it. The Sierra Elevation will get a host of exclusive digs to complete its status, all of which are being included to infuse the pickup with a commanding look to go with natural truck capabilities and functionality that all Sierra pickups are known for.

2019 GMC Sierra Elevation

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2019 GMC Sierra Elevation
  • Horsepower: 310
  • Torque: 348
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

What makes the GMC Sierra Elevation special

The GMC Sierra Elevation is further proof that the U.S. market isn’t tiring of pickups anytime soon. The pickup is essentially a “lite” version of the Sierra 1500 AT4. It has a smattering of cosmetic upgrades to go along with a highlight reel of optional packages that can turn it into a full-blown, unapologetic, go-anywhere ride.

On the cosmetic side, the Sierra Evolution gets color-matched door handles, which really doesn’t do much to move our needles, but, hey, it’s an “upgrade” in GMC’s lexicon. Doubling on that treatment, GMC also dressed up the bumpers and grille surround in the same monochromatic manner, doing away with the chrome treatment on the latter that’s used in almost all other versions of the Sierra. The press photos of the new Sierra Elevation trim offers a good look at it, and the red-on-red look is actually pretty cool.

Black exterior accents complete the aesthetic nip-and-tuck, and you can see them on the grille insert, tow hooks, side window trim, and the set of 20-inch aluminum wheels that come standard on this Sierra trim level. Buyers who want a little extra can also avail of some available accessory. The GearOn rails, for example, allow buyers to install bike racks or kayak carriers easily.

2018 GMC Sierra AT4 Shown here}


Sure, the aesthetic upgrades give the Sierra a more youthful look. But what really elevates the Sierra Elevation — no pun intended — into the world of must-have goodness is the optional X31 Off-Road package. This package is catered specifically for those who frequently venture off the beaten path. It includes a unique suspension tuning with Rancho shocks, locking rear differential, Hill Descent Control, protective underbody skid plates, heavy-duty air filter, a dual exhaust system, all-terrain tires and a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing to make sure that those steep climbs aren’t going to make your Sierras sweat.

2019 GMC Sierra AT4 Inteiror shown here.}


On the tech front, the Sierra Elevation isn’t lacking, either. It comes with GMC’s Traction Select System, which lets drivers choose the amount of traction they need based on specific purposes and conditions, all in the name of optimizing the pickup’s performance chops. If you’re using your pickup for everyday driving, you can stick it on Tour Mode and be done with it. But if you’re looking to tackle the off-road, turn the knob to Terrain Mode, and the Sierra’s going to take you anywhere you want to go.

In moments where you’re going to tow a trailer, the Sierra Elevation also comes with the ProGrade Trailering System, which comes with a handful of innovative features that can give you a step-by-step guide on how to connect and tow a trailer without a hitch.

All these features make up a compelling package for pickup enthusiasts in the U.S. Would-be customers can even choose between an all-new 2.7-liter turbocharged engine that produces 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque. If that isn’t powerful enough, the Sierra Elevation is available with GMC’s next-gen 5.3-liter V-8 that has 355 horsepower on tap.

GMC has not affixed a price on the Sierra Elevation, but the new trim level is expected to hit the market in the fall of this year.

Further Reading

2018 GMC Sierra

Read our full review on the 2019 GMC Sierra.

2019 GMC Sierra AT4

Read all we know about the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4}