GMC Sierra HD Gets Extra Towing and Payload Capability

GMC announced today its 2011 Sierra heavy-duty pickups have increased towing and payload ratings, namely to 21,700 pounds and 6,635 pounds respectively. The engineering team was able to achieve the increase in towing capacity to 21,700 by putting the Sierra HD through a wide variety of tests over various terrains, grades and weather conditions.

The new pick-ups also went through design and lab analysis, climatic wind tunnel testing to confirm stable handling and performance of the powertrain, drivetrain and brake components at maximum gross combined weight rating

"When developing the Sierra HD our focus has consistently been to deliver customers the most capable heavy-duty trucks in the market, along with premium features and styling that distinguish GMC amongst the competition," said Rick Spina, GM Full-size Truck global vehicle line executive. "Our first set of capability tests confirmed that the team had exceeded the payload and towing targets by a significant margin. Ongoing testing demonstrated a clear opportunity to increase the true capabilities of these trucks."

To achieve the increased payload capacity, engineers used higher strength steel for the cargo box sills. The vehicles were then submitted to extensive testing.

"We encourage consumers to test drive the Sierra HD against the competition," said Spina in a release. "Based on our test results, we are confident our HDs will prove to be the best choice for real-world towing and hauling needs."  

GMC will be offering the Denali line in its heavy-duty pickups with the Sierra Denali 2500 and 3500 HDs. The Denali version can be distinguished by its our-bar, chrome grille with round air inlets, along with body-color bumpers, chrome door handles, chrome accents and 17- (Dually), 18- and 20-inch polished forged aluminum wheels.