2006 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE2 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB

Choosing the longer 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE2 Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 SB gets you a 6.5-foot cargo bed and off-road capability with the on-demand 4WD system. Equipped with a center locking differential and both high- and low-range gearing, this half-ton pickup can tackle back roads capably. You can beef up its functionality by adding optional skid plates, a rear locking differential, a driver-adjustable suspension, and larger 20-inch wheels in place of the standard 17-inch with all-season tires. Backing this up is a 295-hp, 5.3-liter V8 (a flex fuel version is available) mated to a 4-speed automatic. Tow hooks come standard with the bed, but an optional trailer hitch allows you to tow 10,000 pounds. A 345-hp, 6.0-liter V8 is available.

This six-passenger half-ton pickup earns only average crash test ratings. 4-wheel ABS comes with electronic brakeforce distribution, and dual front airbags feature passenger deactivation. There are no side curtain bags. A front stabilizer bar provides added protection. Automatic headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and foglights round out the package. OnStar, regenerative braking, and auto-dimming side mirrors with turn signals are optional.

Although it's a four-door pickup, the rear doors are half-size and open only in conjunction with the front doors. A power driver's seat boosts the comfort factor in the SLE2. Other features include a full power setup, heated mirrors, remote entry, a CD player with radio data, cruise control, leather trim, intermittent wipers, a front power outlet, a security system, and a temperature display and compass. You can add leather seats and memory settings for the driver, along with a CD changer and satellite radio, wheel-mounted and backseat audio controls, and a trip computer.