The GMC Truck & Coach Branch (of General Motors Corporation) was previously the General Motors Truck Company. It is a division of the American automaker General Motors (GM) that primarily concentrates on trucks and utility vehicles. In addition, GMC now produces SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and light-duty trucks for the luxury vehicle market.
What are the 10 best GMC off-road vehicles?
The 10 best GMC vehicles for off-roading are:
- GMC Terrain
- GMC Yukon
- GMC Acadia
- GMC Sierra 1500
- GMC Sierra 1500 Limited
- GMC HUMMER EV
- GMC Sierra 2500HD
- GMC Sierra 3500HD
- GMC Canyon
- GMC Savana Passenger
Keep reading to find out the complete details on the 10 best GMC trucks for off-roading.
Off-Road Features of 10 Best GMC Vehicles:
However, let’s go through this one-glance table below.
GMC Vehicle | Price (MSRP) | Horsepower (HP) | Torque(lb-ft) | Interior | Off-Roading Capabilities |
GMC TERRAIN | $29,795 | 170 | 203 |
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GMC YUKON | $55,795 | 365 | 383 |
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GMC ACADIA | $36,695 | 228 | 258 |
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GMC SIERRA 1500 | $37,195 | 310 | 430 |
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GMC SIERRA 1500 LIMITED | $32,995 | 310 | 348 |
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GMC HUMMER EV | $110,295 | 1000 | 11,500 |
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GMC SIERRA 2500HD | $41,995 | 401 | 464 |
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GMC SIERRA 3500HD | $43,195 | 401 | 464 |
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GMC CANYON | $28,595 | 308 | 275 |
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GMC SAVANA PASSENGER | $38,895 | 276 | 298 |
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1. GMC Terrain:
The GMC Terrain suggests it will deliver a premium experience in the crowded compact SUV segment. In addition, it has a newly revised exterior styling.
Additionally, the Terrain somewhat fulfills that prediction. The infotainment system is simple and comes with a wireless smartphone-compatible 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen.
2. GMC Yukon:
For the 2021 model year, the GMC Yukon and its brother-under-the-skin Chevrolet Tahoe underwent a total redesign. This resulted in a larger cabin, increased cargo space, and a plethora of additional convenience features.
However, typical V8 engines and conventional automatic transmissions have remained the same for the Yukon and lengthier Yukon XL. The continued availability of a turbodiesel powertrain, a rarity in the market, is one concession to rising gasoline prices.
Also, large families will find the Yukon and Yukon XL to be the best vehicles for road trips. The passengers will appreciate the smooth and quiet journey. In addition, the Yukon has exceptional all-weather capability thanks to its four-wheel drive option.
Furthermore, the Terrain offers a smooth and relaxing ride. But it has no more opulent inside than the Mazda CX-5 or Nissan Rogue.
3. GMC Acadia:
The GMC Acadia draws attention with its exterior design and keeps it with its modern interior and commendable infotainment system. It also has five-star safety and a plethora of driver-assist systems.
However, the Acadia's biggest flaw is its size. It is 5 inches shorter than the Ford Explorer and nearly 11 inches shorter than the Chevrolet Traverse in overall length. Because of their increased length, those competitors may provide additional passenger and freight room.
Additionally, the Acadia has a lot to offer as a five-passenger premium SUV if you don’t need seven seats. It’s also a better vehicle for transporting two couples, thanks to the second-row captain’s chairs.
4. GMC Sierra 1500:
The GMC Sierra 1500 comes in various premium trim levels, including the Denali and new Denali Ultimate. This year, GMC updated the interior of the Sierra 1500. It shows in both the look and feel of the material choices.
Additionally, top trims get open-pore wood and luxurious leathers, but premium materials are standard across the board. Finally, the Sierra 1500 has 4 engine options. This includes making it a capable work truck.
Furthermore, the infotainment system now incorporates a bigger touchscreen with various capabilities. On Sierra Denali trucks, there are also various standard safety features, as well as the new Super Cruise driver-assist system.
The Ford F-150, in contrast, provides more trim options, a hybrid, and more robust off-road performance in its Raptor trim. In addition, the cabin of the Ram 1500 is more luxurious and has a more comfortable ride.
5. GMC Sierra 1500 Limited:
Due to delays in the release of the redesigned 2022 Sierra 1500 model, General Motors created the GMC Sierra 1500 Limited. The carryover model will be marketed until the newer model is available.
In addition, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and 2022 GMC Sierra Limited are very similar.
However, there are a few key distinctions between the two. One notable example is that the base Sierra 1500 trim has been renamed Pro.
What hasn’t altered Sierra’s overall market position? First, however, it has a little more expensive alternative to the mechanically nearly identical Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
6. GMC Hummer EV:
A brand-new, all-electric pickup truck is the GMC Hummer EV. In the future, the Hummer portfolio will comprise a variety of trucks and SUVs. But there will be a significant change from the Hummers of the past.
Also, the new line will be electric rather than gas-guzzling monsters. The Hummer EV pickup is the first to enter production. The initially available trim, Edition 1, is no longer available.
However, customers can sign up for the waiting list for upcoming editions. Additionally, the Hummer EV has a long driving range to maximize the time between charges and outstanding off-road performance. Five adults can ride in comfort in its roomy interior thanks to its modern driver-assist safety features.
However, a six-figure starting price puts it out of many purchasers’ reach.
Also, the truck’s poor tow and payload ratings may put off those who require a truck for heavy-duty work.
Furthermore, in terms of size and capabilities, the Hummer has no obvious rivals. However, those seeking a pickup EV might want to look at the Ford F-150 Lightning.
Its top trim level is less expensive than the Hummer’s base model. Ingenious Rivian R1T has a lower price and offers a much higher towing capacity.
7. GMC Sierra 2500HD:
2020 saw the most recent makeover of the Sierra 2500HD. Thus, this one is the most recent of the heavy-duty pickup vehicles.
Years ago, GMC and its sister brand, Chevrolet, paved a distinctive path. They did this by providing the sole heavy-duty pickup with four-wheel drive. It also has an independent front suspension rather than an old solid front axle.
Also, the GM trucks have a reputation for having some of the best handling and ease of operation among workhorse pickups.
Additionally, GMC provides the expensive Denali model, which ups the level of luxury.
However, just because a truck is simple to drive doesn’t imply it loses its ability to haul or tow. GMC offers two engines:
- The 6.6-liter V8 Duramax diesel, which produces a respectable 910 pound-feet of torque.
- The conventional 401-horsepower 6.6-liter V8 is powered by gasoline.
Additionally, 3,979 pounds can be moved by the top Sierra HD’s bed. The pickup’s maximum towing capacity is 18,500 pounds.
On select models, GMC's fantastic rear camera system delivers two trailer views in addition to a hitch guidance system. In addition, the GM trucks are the only heavy-duty pickups with an all-wheel-drive mode inside the 4WD system. That inspires trust in the driver when pulling or towing a trailer in bad weather.
The Sierra, however, lacks the off-road prowess of its competitors. As a result, the greatest places for the AT4 off-road kit are dirt roads and easy trails.
8. GMC Sierra 3500HD:
There are only three options for actual heavy-duty trucks, and the GMC Sierra 3500HD is one of the most capable. When properly built, this enormous pickup can tow up to 36,000 pounds. All thanks to its powerful turbodiesel engine and two rear wheels.
Additionally, only the Ram 3500 outperforms the GMC in this elite group of trucks, and by a paltry 1,090 pounds. The maximum weight of the Ford Super Duty F-350 is 32,000 lbs.
Also, Sierra’s strength is further enhanced by its roomy inside, adaptable MultiPro tailgate, and several modern innovations.
9. GMC Canyon:
The GMC Canyon is a midsize vehicle. It comes in four trim levels and includes the off-road AT4 and opulent Denali pickups; it has a model for most buyers.
Second, a 6-foot bed is included with the extended cab model, which has four seats. Finally, the five-passenger, four-door crew cab with either a 5- or 6-foot bed is available. It is available for those who require more excellent inside space.
Additionally, Rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, as well as two gas engines or a turbodiesel, are all options for the Canyon. It is simple to locate a Canyon that meets your demands due to the wide variety of configurations.
Also, a luxurious interior, an extensive multimedia system, and a high tow rating are further positive characteristics.
10. GMC Savana Passenger:
There are two trim versions for the 12-seat GMC Savana Passenger. The LT 3500 SWB has a starting price of $41,795 and a 4.3L V6 engine and Rear Wheel Drive. It is the most popular model.
GMC Vehicle | Infotainment | Exterior | Transmission Type | Engine Type | Torque RPM | Horse RPM |
GMC TERRAIN | It has an infotainment system, touch screen, Bluetooth hands-free, voice command, in-car WiFi, etc. | LED headlamps | Automatic | Gas | 2000 | 5600 |
GMC YUKON | It has in-car WiFi, Bluetooth etc. | It has auto-on/off high beams, fog lamps, heated side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 1500 | 5000 |
GMC ACADIA | It has in-car WiFi, Bluetooth, etc. | It has auto-on/off high beams, fog lamps, heated side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 1500 | 5000 |
GMC SIERRA 1500 | It has in-car WiFi, Bluetooth | LED headlamps, heated side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 3000 | 5600 |
GMC SIERRA 1500 LIMITED | It has in-car WiFi, Bluetooth, etc. | LED headlamps, heated side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 1500 | 5600 |
GMC SIERRA 2500HD | It has an infotainment system, touch screen, Bluetooth hands-free, voice command, in-car WiFi, etc. | It has an LED headlamp, fog lamps, memory side mirrors, heated side mirrors, folding side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 4000 | 5200 |
GMC SIERRA 3500HD | It has an infotainment system, touch screen, Bluetooth hands-free, voice command, in-car WiFi, etc. | t has LED headlamps, fog lamps, memory side mirrors, heated side mirrors, folding side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 4000 | 5200 |
GMC CANYON | It has in-car WiFi, Bluetooth, etc. | It has a halogen headlamp, fog lamps, heated side mirrors, power trunk/liftgate, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 4000 | 6800 |
GMC SAVANA PASSENGER | It has in-car WiFi, Bluetooth, etc | It has daytime running lights (DRLs), heated side mirrors, power side mirrors, etc. | Automatic | Gas | 3900 | 5200 |
Which Year of Sierra Is the Most Trustworthy?
In light of this, the 2009 and 2017 GMC Sierra models are likely the best choices for used car buyers. Always seek used cars that have had relatively few miles, complete maintenance records, and haven't been in any major collisions.
Pros and Cons of the 10 best GMC Trucks for Off-Roading:
The table below shows the pros and cons of the 10 best GMC trucks for off-roading:
GMC Vehicle | Pros | Cons |
GMC TERRAIN | Simple-to-use entertainment | There are too many interior components made of plastic. |
GMC YUKON | A reliable towing vehicle | V8 engines don't have the same fuel efficiency as some rival engines. |
GMC ACADIA | Positives Strong engines | Prices quickly increase with options |
GMC SIERRA 1500 | Positive reputation, considering Denali's availability of multiple engines | There isn't much of a difference between some Chevrolet Silverado models. |
GMC SIERRA 1500 LIMITED | Special off-road abilities | Lower towing capacity than competing EV pickups |
GMC HUMMER EV | A mode of optional all-wheel drive. | The gas V8 engine lacks a 10-speed transmission. |
GMC SIERRA 2500HD | The cabin has a lot of storage and room. | Denali trim is less opulent than other top-tier trucks. |
GMC SIERRA 3500HD | Towing is a breeze thanks to smart apps and cameras. | The Interior feels and looks old. |
GMC CANYON | Three different engine choices, including a turbodiesel | Bare minimum mandatory safety measures |
GMC SAVANA PASSENGER | It is cheap compared to the others | It is not a good towing vehicle |
Also Read:
10 Best Subaru Off-Road Vehicles of All Time- Complete Guide
The 10 Best Off-Road SUVs Under $10000- Details with Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How far can a GMC truck travel?
The average GMC Sierra truck lifespan is 250,000 miles before needing pricey upgrades.
Is a GMC truck superior to a Chevy truck?
In general, GMC vehicles are more geared toward luxury customers, while Chevrolet pickups are more geared toward regular truck buyers.
Are Sierras superior to Silverados?
With their ten-speed automatic gearboxes, the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 generate similar horsepower and performance figures. However, their capacity for towing is where they diverge.
Is GMC superior to RAM?
Due to its more remarkable performance, the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 can defeat the Ram 1500.
Why does GMC cost more than Chevy?
Due to the brand’s propensity to target the luxury market, GMC models are more expensive.
This is Surya. I am an experienced off-roader. I have been off-roading for many years across several terrains. I am passionate about 4×4 driving and want to share my knowledge and experience with others.
My goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive and unbiased information about off-roading.
I curated this article through my personal experience and expertise, and I hope it helps you with what you are looking for.