2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD Pros vs Cons

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD has quietly become one of today's best full-size pickups. While the Sierra 1500 is built on the Chevrolet Silverado 1500's platform, unique exterior styling and a few exclusive features help set it apart. Some of the all-new Sierra 1500's improvements include enhanced city fuel economy, a roomier cabin, and extra off-roading gear. It's a great truck for everyday commuting and weekend road trips. Has the new Sierra 1500 2WD surged past the competition or is it still just average?

What's New for 2019?

A lot has been changed on the redesigned 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD. It's now lighter and capable of pulling a heavier load. For the first time, the Sierra 1500 is available with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. GMC has also equipped the pickup with a new infotainment system.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD – The Pros

1. New Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine

A lot of drivers will be interested in Chevy's new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Although this engine doesn't have the traditional rumble of a truck engine, most people will like its performance. GMC tuned it to develop a total of 310 horsepower, which is more muscle than you get from the base V6. A maximum towing capacity in excess of 7,000 pounds sweetens the deal. In regard to fuel economy, anticipate getting a combined 21 mpg on regular unleaded.

2. Big and Powerful V8 Engine

While the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD gives yow two different V8 engines to pick from, the larger 6.2-liter is the strongest. This is the same engine found in the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. In the new Sierra 1500 2WD, it's tuned to kick out 420 horsepower. You will enjoy speedy acceleration and relentless pulling power. Rated to tow more than 12,000 pounds, the Sierra 1500 2WD will have no trouble pulling a camper across the country.

3. Exclusive Adaptive Suspension Dampers

Many car reviewers applaud the new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD for its improved driving dynamics. It feels a lot more composed on country roads. When you take curves, the Sierra 1500 2WD no longer feels as bulky. This can be contributed to the truck's lighter design. Unlike the mechanically similar Silverado 1500, the Sierra 1500 2WD can be equipped with adaptive suspension dampers. GMC's new Adaptive Ride Control makes the Sierra 1500 feel a lot more balanced on the road.

4. Big On Space

One of the biggest attractions of a full-size pickup is its spacious cabin. There's even more space inside the new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD. This is a major plus for the drivers who will be using the Sierra 1500 as their primary family vehicle. The crew model's extra rear legroom will certainly make your tall friends happy. Up to six people will be able to climb inside. You will also find plenty of useful storage compartments inside the new Sierra 1500 2WD.

5. May Look Better Than the New Chevrolet Silverado

Despite sharing many similarities with the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD may feature the most attractive exterior styling. A lot of truck lovers will like the Sierra 1500's powerful front fascia. While the base model may not have much pizzazz, the higher trim levels really stand out on the street. Body-colored exterior trim and a set of 20-inch black alloy wheels make the Elevation trim look stunning. Cardinal Red and White Frost Tricoat are two of the Sierra 1500's hottest paint colors.

6. Base Model is a Good Work Truck

If you are looking for an everyday work truck, the base 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD will prove to be a good choice. Not only does the base Sierra 1500 have a tough design, but it also comes loaded with a good number of modern features. Some of the standard goodies include a 7.0-inch touch screen with smartphone integration, a backup camera, and automatic xenon headlamps. In terms of cost, expect prices for the base model to start at around $29,600.

7. Nice Infotainment System

GMC's new infotainment system gives the Sierra 1500 2WD an especially modern feel. It's hands-down the best interface ever offered by GMC. While a 7.0-inch touch screen comes standard, an upgraded 8.0-inch touch screen is available. Both units support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Users will truly enjoy the interface's simple on-screen menus and quick smartphone integration. The graphics are also substantially better than before. Furthermore, it doesn't take first timers long to learn the ropes.

8. Technologies That Promote Safer Towing

GMC offers some great technologies that assist with towing. The ProGrade Trailering System is a must for anyone who'll be pulling a load on a regular basis. A special app enables you to perform all of the critical trailer tests from inside the cab. Designed into the rearview camera, Hitch Guidance simplifies the task of connecting a trailer. You can also take advantage of the Trailering Camera Package, which makes towing safer by giving you an extra set of eyes.

9. Advanced Driving Aids

In terms of safety technology, the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD ranks among the segment leaders. Moving up to the higher trim levels gives you access to GMC's latest advanced driving aids. While blind-spot monitoring helps by making lane changes less stressful, forward collision warning with automatic braking makes you less likely to rear end another vehicle. Front Pedestrian Braking and a Following Distance Indicator are offered as well.

10. Denali Model Delivers Luxurious Ride

Stepping up to the Denali model rewards you with top-notch luxury. It's the only trim in the lineup that comes equipped with adaptive suspension dampers, which ensure the smoothest possible ride. You will also appreciate the Denali model's ventilated leather seats. Some of the other niceties found on the Denali model include a rear camera mirror, a head-up display, and a premium Bose sound system.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD – The Cons

1. Still Doesn't Return Best-in-Class Fuel Economy

GMC did a lot to help improve the truck's fuel economy, including shedding weight and introducing a new turbocharged four-cylinder. However, it's still not quite as efficient as some of today's other full-size trucks. For instance, the 2019 Ram 1500 manages to deliver up 25 mpg on the freeway. Meanwhile, some F-150 models top out at 26 mpg.

2. Still Doesn't Handle the Best

You find the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD to drive better than ever. However, it still falls short of the 2019 Ram 1500 and the 2019 Ford F-150. The Sierra 1500's vague steering feedback may leave some drivers a bit disappointed. You'll also notice the Sierra 1500 2WD doesn't handle quite as well.

3. High-Priced Denali Model

Folks seeking the utmost luxury will crave the range-topping Denali model. Unfortunately, it's not a cheap ride. GMC lists the new Sierra 1500 Denali with an MSRP of $54,700. This will be a bit too much money for many people shopping for a new pickup truck. You can save more than $10,000 by choosing the well-equipped SLT trim.

4. Diesel Engine Late Availability

A diesel engine is scheduled to be offered on the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD. It promises to offer good towing power and above-average fuel economy. Unfortunately, it won't be available until late 2019. This could be an issue for the drivers who need a pickup truck now opposed to later.

5. Ford F-150 Tows More

The new 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD can pull a massive load. Nevertheless, it can't tow as much weight as the 2019 Ford F-150 and the 2019 Ram 1500. While this issue may concern the drivers who want bragging rights, most people won't find it to be a deal breaker.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

As usual, the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD faces off against the Ford F-150. Although the new Sierra 1500 has closed the gap, it's still just a notch below its top-selling American counterpart. A higher towing capacity and greater fuel savings give the F-150 an edge.

You may also be deciding between the Sierra 1500 2WD and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD. There are certain features you can only get on the Sierra 1500, including adaptive suspension dampers and a new MultiPro tailgate. Of course, you can also take advantage of the Sierra 1500's unique styling.

The 2019 Toyota Tundra is also worth a test drive. Only the Tundra comes standard with advanced safety technologies like lane departure alert and forward collision warning. While the Toyota Tundra is powerful and extremely reliable, it suffers from poor fuel economy.

Conclusion

Make it a point to check out the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD. It's a much-improved pickup truck that offers style, performance, and luxury. It's also a highly capable hauling and towing machine. You'll also enjoy the Sierra 1500's user-friendly technologies. A lot of legroom is inside the six-passenger crew cab, which is a huge benefit for families. If you desire the amenity-filled Denali mode, prepare to pay its steep price.