Why is GMC so expensive? (2021 model review)

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: Why is GMC so expensive? We will discuss possible reasons why GMC trucks are priced so high. We will also review the GMC Yukon Denali 2021 and its luxurious features. 

Why is GMC so expensive?

GMC truck models are so expensive first of all because their target customers are looking for luxury vehicles. On average, a GMC truck is $50,000 and it suggests the idea of exclusivity. Second, GMC is the highest-rated premium brand on the Satisfaction Index, according to JD Power.

GMC continues to evolve to offer fuel-efficient pickups and SUVs, with sophisticated and functional design elements to support its capabilities. Currently, the brand’s portfolio is made up of:

• GMC Terrain that equips advancements in safety, technology, OnStar 4G LTE, radio with GMC infotainment 3.0 with real-time traffic and app store, in addition to Electronic Precision Shift, an electronically controlled 9-speed transmission that reduces noise and vibrations in the path. Price: from $27,900

• GMC Acadia that sports outstanding performance, advanced technology and exclusive and innovative safety features such as the rear seat occupied reminder, the first and only system in the industry that notifies the driver that they are forgetting something. Price: from $34,800

• GMC Yukon is designed to provide maximum comfort to its 7 occupants with heated leather seats in the first and second row of seats, as well as multiple features and safety systems designed with exclusive Professional Grade engineering. Recently, GMC Yukon was recognized by JD Power as the best luxury large SUV. Price: from $51,600

• GMC Sierra the pickup of the brand that conquers any challenge with the V8 EcoTec3 engine, with a high-performance suspension and 8-speed automatic transmission, 4×4 with AWD mode. Price: from $30,100.

GMC has built trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including Terrain and Acadia.

GMC Yukon Denali 2021, the SUV returns with more luxury and technology

The SUV market is saturated, that’s nothing new. But among all that extensive range of models, we always find the GMC Yukon Denali 2021 among the best sellers, a strong and luxurious bet that delights all those who need more space, technology, security and the traditional luxury that it has us accustomed to GMC.

Americans love GMC, so much so that this brand is the tenth most purchased brand by this sector of the population, according to information from IHS Markit.

During a series of interviews with the manufacturer for our editorial of the Hispanic Impact that Autoproyecto will be publishing very soon, we discovered that GMC does not do any type of marketing towards Americans, although 36.66% of the brand’s sales come from this sector, although We fully understand the love of Americans for GMC, as they are strong and capable vehicles.

The new 2021 GMC Yukon Denali shows us a radical change in the exterior towards a design trend that highlights its robust appearance and prepared for any terrain (although in reality, it is not like that), with LED light clusters in the shape of C, that embrace a Hexagonal grille divided into three segments, accompanied by wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches depending on the version.

Its 10.2-inch screen will offer you all the information you need on the road, you can connect your devices to enjoy the music you like the most and have all your information in a single touch. 

GMC Interior

Entering the cabin, we find an extremely spacious cabin, especially in the XL versions, where the 15-inch extended bodywork allows the third row of seats to have 36.7 inches of legroom, practically 2 inches more than the traditional one, conserving a trunk space of 41.5 cubic inches.

The seats are completely upholstered in fabric or leather, in shades ranging from black to dark brown to grey, all depending on the version you choose. All versions are equipped with an infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touch screen, and in the case of the Denali version, this can be accompanied by a 15-inch Head-Up Display.

GMC Motor

In the mechanical part, we find two engine options, both in V8 configuration. The first is the naturally aspirated 5.3-litre version, which makes 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The second option is the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre engine, which makes 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, both options paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

These specifications allow a maximum towing capacity of 8,400 pounds for the rear-wheel-drive versions and 8,000 pounds for the all-wheel-drive versions, although in order to achieve these figures it is necessary to equip the model with the special Max Trailering Package that came included with the model we tested.

This year GMC has decided to take the fifth generation of this model to the next level where technology, design and luxury are constant. 

GMC Driving experience

But all of the above would not make any sense if we do not take all these figures from paper to the track, where we find different handling sensations depending on the version. Speaking of all-wheel-drive versions, the driving sensation is fun and satisfying on both the entry-level versions with the small engine and the Yukon Denali equipped with the 6.2-litre engine.

However, if we go down to test the rear-wheel-drive versions, the feel of acceleration in the Yukon Denali is quite bland, and the large amount of shock that its 22-inch wheels transfer, even with the magnetic air ride suspension package, to the cabin makes it definitely not a model we’ve loved to drive.

GMC trucks offer comfort above all

The GMC trucks’ handling is impressively comfortable. It feels like a huge truck, its size is felt in all aspects of handling, both on the highway and in the city.

The engine is powerful and one of the things that are appreciated is the 10-speed transmission that before came as an option and is now standard equipment, thanks to this quality we obtain better fuel consumption. When driving you feel safe since it comes with all the safety equipment you could ask for.

What confuses us a bit about the Yukon is why it exists since it is the same truck as the Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and Cadillac Escalade. Of course, the Escalade has more luxury details, but the truth is that the Yukon is quite luxurious and has nothing to ask of the Cadillac.

The VW Group does the same, it has the Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q8, VW Touareg, Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus that are basically the same car, but all are radically different thanks to their characteristics, however, the Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade are too many alike to justify so many models.

Common faults and problems with the GMC

But of course, the GMC models are not perfect trucks, and here are a few common faults that every future owner must know about:

• The Lambda platform. First of all, it is necessary to clarify that the GMC trucks share a platform with other cars of the North American companies. For example the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse. Take this information into account when ordering parts.

• Transmission failures. The GMC SUVs that have a 6-speed automatic transmission have various failures ranging from lack of speed changes to complete failure of the box. Some of the causes of this problem can be:

• Sensor or computer failure
• Transmission fluid leak
• Breakage of springs, gears and other transmission components.

In most cases, these are manufacturing defects. If you buy this vehicle be sure to thoroughly check the transmission and see if it still has a warranty. In that sense, the owners report this problem after 200,000 miles.

On the other hand, in many cases, this ends in a rebuild or replacement of the entire gearbox. Take this into account and follow the recommended maintenance to avoid this situation.

• Engine problems. Another of the faults of the GMC trucks has to do with the engine. The owners report that it stops for no apparent reason, it works shortly afterwards again. Several factors may be causing this, the most important of which are:

• Excessive oil burn
• Low pressure in the air-gasoline mixture
• Temperature sensor failure

In that sense, if you see the “traction control off” light, it is a sign that your car needs an inspection. Remember that a high temperature can be fatal for your engine.

• Distribution chain: According to the above, another part that can affect engine performance is the timing belt. This band (or chain as it is also called) is in charge of coordinating the work between the crankshaft and the camshaft. For one thing, if it breaks down it can affect the pistons and the rest of the engine block. Also, it can be very expensive to change.

• Unstable steering: This failure can present itself in two forms: steering lock and steering unresponsiveness. In the first case, it may be the sensors located on the steering wheel lock. In the second case, transmission fluid leaks that cause it to get stiff as you drive.

In either case, this problem is registered after 150,000 miles. It is very important to do a thorough review of the condition of the address to avoid and rule out other problems.

FAQ on Why is GMC so expensive?

What brands are from GMC?

The company’s vehicle brands include Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Saab, Hummer and Saturn

Which of the brands is better: Chevrolet or GMC?

In terms of design, GMC vehicles were built to be stronger than Chevrolet due to the market the product wants to serve. GMC is built primarily for construction and commercial use, so a stronger engine is used for more durability.

Who owns the GMC?

William Crapo Durant is the owner and founder of the GMC.

Which is better: Silverado or Sierra?

If you have a big budget, want a truck for work and also that stands out from the rest of the trucks then the GMC Sierra is for you. On the other hand, you should know that the Silverado is more affordable, has better fuel efficiency and has the largest cargo box of its kind.

References

• Sticker price confusion: Why do GMC trucks cost more than Chevy?
• GMC Trucks and SUVs: Reviews, Pricing, and Specs – Car and Driver
• GMC Prices, Reviews & Ratings | J.D. Power