2009 GMC Sierra

Our GMC Sierra came with the topline All Terrain package, which gives it the big 6.2-liter all-aluminum V-8, the six-speed transmission, and a host of upgraded interior mats and materials. Although sharing the same structure and powertrain as the Chevy, GMC offers its own sheetmetal, looking to capture the more upscale buyer. The hood and grille look more muscular, with wheelwell arches and side panels also offering a more bulky and curved style.

Perhaps the strongest point for our Sierra was the recorded fuel mileage.

Power is on par with the competition, as the 5.3L felt strong, even though the four-speed tranny in our tester is a bit old-school.

Subsequent fill-ups after more city driving and stop-and-go traffic did cause the average to drop into the mid 18s, but our 5.3L was able to run in 4-cylinder mode at highway speeds over 70 mph to keep the highway average up. City mileage was right on what the EPA suggests, at 16 mpg.

The 2009 GMC Sierra XFE will receive improved fuel economy ratings of 15/21 mpg (city/highway) thanks to a combination of mechanical, aerodynamic, and mass-reducing enhancements. Aerodynamic enhancements give the truck a best-in-class coefficient of drag of 0.412, according to GM.

The XFE package, which stands for Xtra Fuel Economy, is planted on a 2WD drivetrain with a 315-hp 5.3L FlexFuel V-8 and six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 automatic transmission. Thanks to the six-speed, a high-capacity cooling package, and 338 lb-ft of torque, towing capacity on the truck is increased from 6,600 lbs to 7,000 lbs.

The 2009 GMC Sierra XFE will receive improved fuel economy ratings of 15/21 mpg (city/highway) thanks to a combination of mechanical, aerodynamic, and mass-reducing enhancements. Aerodynamic enhancements give the truck a best-in-class coefficient of drag of 0.412, according to GM.

The XFE package, which stands for Xtra Fuel Economy, is planted on a 2WD drivetrain with a 315-hp 5.3L FlexFuel V-8 and six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 automatic transmission. Thanks to the six-speed, a high-capacity cooling package, and 338 lb-ft of torque, towing capacity on the truck is increased from 6,600 lbs to 7,000 lbs.

If you're looking for ways to save money on gas but still need the capabilities of a truck, you've likely already looked at the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid/GMC Sierra Hybrid twins.

The 2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid starts at $39,365 including $975 destination charge in 3HA trim with 2WD. 3HB trim-level trucks start at $45,500 including destination charge.

Both trucks feature GM's two-mode gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. A 332-hp V-8 is coupled with an electric motor that boosts output and lowers engine load, allowing the full-size trucks to attain car-like fuel efficiency. 2WD models get 21 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, while 4WD models get 20 mpg in both conditions. Combined with a 26-gallon fuel tank, the 2WD models have a range of 500 miles, while the 4WD models will cover 470 miles. Both can travel at up to 30 mph on electrical power alone and can tow 6100 pounds.

For 2009, the Sierra lineup enhances its segment-best fuel economy with a new six-speed automatic that is paired with V-8 engines (except the 4.8L). Additionally, the 6.2L engine previously exclusive to the Sierra Denali is offered on SLT crew cab models; it is also more powerful than last year's model and E85-capable. Other new features and content changes give customer more choices that support both safety and convenience.

The 2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid is a full-size pickup that achieves 40-percent greater city fuel economy and a 25-percent improvement in overall fuel economy while delivering the capability expected of a full-size truck - including a 6,100-pound towing capacity. Partnering General Motors' patented two-mode hybrid system and a powerful 6.0L gas V-8, the Sierra Hybrid delivers highly efficient performance, including all-electric driving up to 30 mph (48 km/h). That allows fuel savings to be realized even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer.