GMC Sierra for 2003 is quite an offering. It tackles the rough roads like an open field, and it loves any driving task. An extensive interior redesign (including new switch controls and a more efficient cluster gauge presentation) makes any drive a blast. All the standard offerings on the 4WD 1500 pickup target a high-expectation audience. That means four-wheel anti-lock brakes, tinted solar ray glass, rear heater ducts, driver information center for 27 vehicle functions (nearly twice the previous message center), 6-bolt wheel hubs, and wire harness for trailer hauls are Sierra staples. SLE, SLT and Denali models provide XM Satellite radio interface capability as standard fare, too.

But beyond the professional grade standards on Sierra, two optional equipment choices really merit strong consideration. Topping the option list is Quadrasteer, a four-wheel steering enabler. It’s an amazing technology that allows up to a 12-degree turn of the rear wheels in relation to the front wheels. Simply put: parallel parking is as easy as parking a small car, 90-degree turns don’t require a semi-truck swing-out maneuver, and towing movements become less cumbersome. Quadrasteer is a $4,495 option. The Vortec 5.3-liter V8 engine (an $800 option on the Sierra 1500 4WD four door) provides horsepower and torque in a snap. MSRP of the Sierra 1500 four door with 4WD and 4-speed automatic transmission is $30,652.