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Detroit, MI – GMC unveiled the all-new 2019 Sierra Denali and SLT to a host of media in Detroit. The separate unveiling of the Sierra after the North American International Autoshow in Detroit was no coincidence, as it was a move to differentiate the top-selling GMC product from its Chevrolet Silverado sibling.

The two top-level Sierra trims – the Denali and SLT – represent the premium expression of where the GMC brand aspires to. Two industry-firsts: a six-function tailgate and carbon fiber bed are the clearest examples of that premium shift. The new MultiPro tailgate is standard on both trim levels and can make life easier for truck owners with six unique functions and positions to help with second-tier loading, load-stop solutions, and it even acts as a standing workstation. The carbon fiber box, labelled the CarbonPro, will be an available option on an increased seven-inch wider frame from than the outgoing model. The carbon fiber box is a big step up in durability for GMC, while possessing best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance.

Unique exterior designs further help in separating the Sierra from the Silverado. Most of them can be found on its front fascia with a distinct chrome grille, a fresh GMC stamp in the centre, and LED touches for its headlights, fog lamps and taillights. Its LED C-shaped headlights that wrap around its fenders are a work of art featuring an attractive “light blade” that sets a premium mood.

Even though the new Sierra sits higher and has a larger wheelbase, GMC has managed to shed 163 kg from its outgoing model thanks to additional high-strength steel and aluminum. The aluminum won't be used in the box, but is used where needed, in its doors, hood and tailgate. The available CarbonPro box will drop even more weight as its 28 kg lighter than the steel version used throughout the rest of the product line.

The Denali trim continues to impress on the inside with natural pebbled leather, open-pore wood and a dark-finish aluminum decor. Occupants enjoying those refined treatments will also be impressed by best-in-class front head- and legroom thanks to an expansion of three-inches of rear seat legroom. Rear seat storage compartments that can store a laptop or tie-downs, as in the new Silverado, can be found by flipping open its rear seats.

Powering the Sierra for now (more are expected to be added) are three engine offerings: a 5.3-litre and 6.2-litre V8, and an all-new 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-diesel. Performance numbers are to follow as well, but we can report that the 6.2-litre V8 and the diesel will be matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the 5.3-litre receives an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Even though the V8s appear as carryovers, they've been improved with the use of start/stop technology and a Dynamic Fuel Management system. The latter is the same used in the Silverado that can deactivate all but one cylinder for better performance and fuel economy.

Another note of interest is in technology. The 2019 Sierra will feature a class-first head-up display, as well as rear camera mirror, a ProGrade trailering system that performs light tests and a pre-departure checklist, and hitch guidance to assist when positioning the hitch.

The 2019 GMC Sierra will go on sale in the fall of 2018 with more engine news, towing and payload capacities, and pricing to come at a later date.