The Sierra has been a good choice for years, and the redesigned 2014 version is an even better performer. With this overhaul, the model landed some solid punches in the ongoing pickup wars. Handling is more carlike than in most others and the cabin is as quiet as a luxury car's. An assist system makes the tailgate easy to lift and prevents it from dropping open, easing cargo-handling duties. And, at 16 mpg overall with a 5.3-liter V8, our four-wheel-drive Crew Cab model got impressive fuel economy.
In addition, a relatively low ride height eases access, the dashboard controls are simple to use, and the Sierra provides impressive towing and payload capacities.
You can choose from among three engines, each mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. We opted for the popular 355-hp, 5.3-liter V8. The 285-hp, 4.3-liter V6 gets the job done, but towing and payload capacities are lower. If you want more oomph, go for the 6.2-liter V8 with a hearty 420 horsepower. New for 2016 was an eight-speed automatic transmission, which could be hooked up to either V8.
Our 5.3-liter V8 delivers ample power, but lacks the thrust of the 5.7-liter V8s in competitive models. The transmission upshifts smoothly and quickly, but it's reluctant to downshift, making the truck feel underpowered. Neither is the Sierra's ride or seat comfort top-drawer. A final reservation is braking performance, where stopping distances on wet pavement are longer than they should be.