2008 GMC Sierra 1500

Now you can work hard and play hard, courtesy of the 2008 GMC Sierra 1500. The 1500 designates this full-size pickup as the half-ton model, but equipped with five different engine choices, it can tow up to 10,000 pounds. For 2008, the pickup gains standard satellite radio on all trims, and adds optional 22-inch wheels and an optional power driver's seat in Regular Cab models.

The 2008 Sierra 1500 comes in three cab lengths -- 2-door Regular that seats two, and four-door Extended and Crew, which both seat six in two rows. The rear doors on the Extended are reverse-hinged and open in tandem with the front doors, while the Crew has four separate doors. Both Regular and Extended pickups have a choice of a 6.6 or 8-foot bed, but the Crew is stuck with a 5.8-foot bed to compensate for the spacious room inside.

Trims start with the basic Work Truck and move through SLE, SLT, and the Denali. The Denali is distinct from the others, loaded with comfort features and packing a 6.2-liter, 403-hp V8 and 6-speed automatic. The other trims can choose between a 4.3-liter, 195-hp V6, a 4.8-liter, 295-hp V8, a 5.3-liter, 315-hp V8, and a 6.0-liter, 367-hp V8. The latter two come with Active Fuel Management to improve fuel economy, and the 5.3 is available as a flex-fuel E85 vehicle. A 4-speed automatic is the only transmission, one that drivers say feels outdated and awkward. All trims are offered in both rear-wheel and either part-time or automatic all-wheel drive. The AWD system features low-range gearing for off-road use, except in the Denali. There are four suspensions depending on the pickup purpose. The Z83 and 85 focus on comfort, the Z60 on handling, and the Z71 on off-roading.

On the inside, the 2008 Sierra 1500 offers two decors. The WT and SLE feature a Pure Pickup interior that's more functional, with larger controls. The SLT and Denali feature a Luxury interior, full of power accessories and leather. Coming up later in 2008 will be the Sierra All-Terrain, which uses the Z71 off-road suspension in combination with larger shocks and distinctive chrome trim on the inside and out to set it apart from the other pickups in the lineup. Drivers agree that the 2008 Sierra 1500 retains its utility while being amazingly quiet and comfortable, with a smooth ride, lots of standard features, and a stylish look for a pickup. The lack of a spray-in bedliner, the clunky transmission, and the requisite low fuel economy are the biggest downsides.