The Tow/Haul shift mode that comes as part of the optional towing package does a great job of keeping the automatic transmission in a lower gear, improving response and reducing wear on the transmission. Overall, we found the Sierra provides a stable platform for towing and the 5.3-liter engine had enough torque to pull a 3,800-pound trailer through the mountains.
Sierra's brakes have been greatly improved compared to the previous model. The four-wheel disc brakes are huge and powerful and come standard with ABS. Braking force comes into play only an inch into the pedal travel, a major improvement over the clunky pedal action on the previous C/K pickup. Dynamic Rear Proportioning improves stability under heavy braking whether the truck is loaded or empty. GMC promises huge improvements in fade resistance, pad life and heat dissipation, and after our desert test drive, we believe it. Next Page