All-new 2019 GMC Sierra is 360-lb lighter, debuts carbon fiber bed

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Meet the Chevy Silverado’s more luxurious and sophisticated brother

Following the all-new 2019 Silverado 1500's debut at the Detroit Auto Show, GM has thought it was the right time to unveil Chevy's twin, the 2019 GMC Sierra. Offered in luxurious Denali and rugged SLT trim levels, the redesigned Sierra 1500 shares the platform with the Silverado 1500, which means several things.

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First of all, it's up to 360 lb (163 kg) lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the use of aluminum for the doors, hood, and tailgate — the fenders, roof, and standard cargo box are made from steel.

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Secondly, it offers a similar engine lineup, which means the 2019 Sierra 1500 gets an all-new 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel engine for the first time. The oil-burner is joined by improved versions of the 6.2-liter and 5.3-liter V8 gasoline engines which now feature stop/start technology and a new cylinder shut-off system. The 2019 Sierra 1500 comes as standard with the 5.3-liter V8, while the optional 6.2-liter V8 and 3.0-liter turbodiesel are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

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Thirdly, the 2019 Sierra 1500 is larger than the previous truck in virtually every dimension, offering improved interior space and cargo capacity. GMC claims best-in-class front head- and legroom, as well as nearly 3 inches (76 mm) of additional rear-seat legroom, compared to the outgoing Sierra.

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Finally, the cargo boxes are said to also offer best-in-class cargo volume (63 cu-ft/1,784 liters on the short box), as well as additional tie-downs and a new, available 110-volt power outlet. The standard bed is made of roll-formed, high-strength steel but with a revised alloy giving it 50 percent more strength than the current model.

The big news is the 2019 Sierra Denali will offer later on an available carbon fiber box called CarbonPro. It replaces the standard steel inner panels and floor with a carbon fiber composite for "best-in-class dent, scratch, and corrosion resistance." The CarbonPro box is also 62-lb (28-kg) lighter than the steel version.

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The redesigned Sierra also debuts a MultiPro Tailgate that incorporates a step and has a maximum weight capacity of 375 lb (170 kg). Standard on Denali and SLT, the new tailgate has six unique functions and positions.

Styling-wise, the 2019 GMC Sierra debuts a larger, upright grille, a taller hood, and a bolder C-shaped lighting signature. All the light units are redesigned and feature LEDs, while the wheels larger (up to 22 inches in diameter) and pushed closer to the corners.

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Inside, the all-new full-size truck features a redesigned dashboard with a driver-centric approach, a higher seating position, and optimized ergonomics. Segment-first systems such as Multi-Color Head-Up Display and Rear Camera Mirror are available, while Denali models come fitted as standard with a new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, as well as exclusive materials such as premium leather seats, open-pore wood trim, and aluminum decor.

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The 2019 GMC Sierra SLT and Denali go on sale this fall.

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