2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD Road Test Ratings

GMC 2500-Series truck benefit from strong powertrains, stout towing and hauling capability, good driving manners and a handsome and comfortable cabin. This is a solid truck for those who need this kind of capability.

The optional 6.6-liter DuraMax diesel engine and six-speed transmission make an excellent power team for just about any towing or hauling task, but they are quite pricey. Brake confidence and steering feel are vastly improved over the last-generation truck, but routine handling is about average for this class of vehicle.

A truck this heavy-duty can't be expected to ride smoothly when empty, and this one is no exception. The optional diesel engine is a bit on the noisy side. Interior space, ingress/egress and seat comfort are quite good, even in the rear seat of the Crew Cab.

Good visibility and a good driving position make the Sierra easy to command on the road. Interior controls on this generation of Chevy truck are much better located than the last and less gimmicky than their primary domestic competition. There isn't anything particularly distinctive about the truck bed sizewise, but the optional integrated tie-downs work well. The optional fully integrated brake controller is worth buying if you tow.

The big news here is the interior of the GMC: it's handsome, functional and appears to be made from a higher grade of materials than last year. GMC exterior styling was favored by most of our staff over the similar Chevy, but not overwhelmingly. Exterior build quality is about average.