The design and engineering overhaul of the 2014 GMC Sierra puts an accent on things that matter, including power and fuel economy. Sierra’s direct injection EcoTec3 engines use Active Fuel Management technology, which conserves fuel during light-load driving by automatically switching from all cylinders to engaging just 4 cylinders. Beyond the power quotient, Sierra’s cabin welcomes extended stays. And the interior’s functional sturdiness means driver and passengers won’t encounter flimsy or tiny buttons. This reviewer heartily praises the supportive, comfortable seats (including the crew cab’s roomy back seat), the electric power steering as well as the truck’s ample stow spots.

Engine choices are: a 4.3-liter V6 (producing 285 horsepower/305 pounds-feet of torque); a 5.3- liter V8 (releasing 355 horsepower/383 pounds-feet of torque); and a 6.2-liter V8 (producing an estimated 420 horsepower/450 pounds-feet of torque). Crew cab models are offered with a 5- foot, 8-inch box (standard) or a 6-foot, 6-inch box (new for 2014). Sierra also debuts GMC’s first application of safety alert seat technology (available as part of the Driver Alert Package). In certain risk situations, like approaching another vehicle too rapidly, the driver’s seat vibrates/ pulses. The GMC Sierra 1500 4WD Crew Cab SLT collects estimated mpg of 16 city/22 highway with the 5.3-liter V8 and 6-speed automatic transmission. That same model has an MSRP of $43,125.