A new trim designation and the loss of the four-wheel Quadrasteer option accompany the 2006 GMC Sierra 1500HD. This half-ton, full-size, heavy-duty pickup is both a workhorse and a comfortable passenger vehicle, with two rows of bench seats that ostensibly seat six, and a pickup bed that is 6.5 feet long. Available as either a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the powertrain consists of a 6.0-liter, 300-hp V8 and 4-speed automatic with a tow/haul mode that helps the 2006 Sierra 1500HD tow up to 10,300 pounds -- the highest tow rating of any half-ton pickup on the market.

An SLE2 joins the pack, which includes an SLE1 and SLT. All come with ABS brakes, dual front airbags, full power features, cruise control, and a CD player. The SLE2 adds a power driver's seat and automatic climate control, while the luxurious SLT features heated leather seats, rear audio control, a CD changer, and a 10-way power driver's seat. There are nice family-oriented options, including satellite radio and a DVD player, and a special camping/towing package offers extended mirrors for better visibility. There are many accessories for the 2006 Sierra 1500HD, including a roof rack, cargo cover, and tie-downs for the bed.

The GMC Sierra is not a big seller when compared to the Ford F series, but it does outscore the competition in terms of hauling performance, and many drivers are surprised by the nice list of standard features even in the base model. Poor fuel economy disappoints, and a somewhat outdated interior hurts the Sierra against its more modern rivals.