GMC Sierra 2500HD

The combination of GM’s V8 turbodiesel engine and the smooth Allison 10-speed transmission is a match made in mechanical heaven. Seemingly endless supplies of power and torque make this powertrain shine, and it pulls and pulls even at low revs. Plus, except for a little diesel clatter upon a cold start, this engine is quiet.

We’re pleased to see that the four-wheel-drive system comes with an “auto” setting so it can remain permanently at the ready.

The learning curve for mastering these truck controls is mild. Yes, the wide cockpit means some controls are a far reach, but the 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system is a snap to use. We also like the hidden volume, radio presets, and next-track audio controls on the back of the steering wheel. These buttons are so handy we wonder why they’re not on every car.

The 10-way, power adjustable heated and cooled leather seats on our rented trucks were superbly comfortable. In addition, we appreciated the well-placed left foot rest (also called a “dead pedal”).

The cabin comes with a ton of storage options for phones, wallets, coffee cups, file folders, tablets … you name it. There are open and covered bins throughout to hold stuff galore.

These trucks are offered with a variety of features aimed to make trailering easier and safer, including an automatic parking brake, a hill hold assist, trailer sway control, a transparent trailer view camera that allows the driver to seemingly see through the trailer, and steering assist that compensates for a trailer.

No matter the level of refinement that GM put into these new trucks, they still have an incredibly stiff ride. And the sheer bulk of these gargantuan machines means that buyers should abandon all hope of nimble handling and settle into a relaxed cruise.

As is the case with all big trucks, the long and tall hood makes it very difficult to tell where the hood actually ends when parking. Navigating even a wide parking spot takes practice and planning.

Even with the available running boards, it's a steep climb up into the cab, not unexpected from most of this ilk.