GMC Sierra: The Rising Star of Pickup Trucks
The GMC Sierra has been making waves in the pickup truck market, with sales nearly tripling since 2010. Let's dive into why this truck is becoming increasingly popular and what you need to know to get the best deal on one.
The Sierra's Meteoric Rise
The Sierra's success can be attributed to a few key factors:
Improved Aesthetics: The Sierra now looks like a more premium truck without the premium price tag.
Competitive Pricing: Even in lower trims like the Elevation or Pro, the Sierra is now competing with smaller trucks like the Tacoma in terms of price.
Maintained Quality: Despite the competitive pricing, GMC has managed to keep the Sierra's reputation as a "Professional Grade" truck.
Sales Growth
The numbers don't lie:
2010: 129,000 units sold
Pre-pandemic: 230,000 units sold
2024: 324,000 units sold
This growth is outpacing many of its competitors, bringing the Sierra close to overtaking RAM in the segment.
Current Market Status
Inventory
As of now, GMC has about 32,000 new Sierras at dealerships or on their way. Here's how that compares to the competition:
Chevrolet Silverado: 52,000
Ford F-150: 87,000
RAM 1500: 32,000
Popular Trims
The top 5 trims in terms of inventory are:
Elevation (8,100 units)
Pro (6,300 units)
SLT (6,100 units)
Denali (5,500 units)
AT4 (2,000 units)
Getting the Best Deal
Let's focus on the Elevation 4x4 trim for this example:
MSRP: $54,940
Target Discount: 5-7% off MSRP before incentives
Target Price: $51,095 (7% off MSRP)
Current Incentives
$4,000 cash allowance on most Sierras
Additional $1,350 credit for Turbomax 4 cylinder models
Promotional APR: 0.9% for 36 months or 5.9% for 60 months
Financing Example
Assuming a 7% discount and the $4,000 cash allowance:
Financed amount: $47,095
Terms: 5.9% APR for 60 months
Monthly payment: $924
Total 5-year cost: $58,727 (including taxes and fees)
Leasing Option
For lease customers:
Additional rebates available for current GMC lease customers or competitors
Lease payment example: $614/month for 36 months, 12,000 miles/year
Total 3-year cost: $25,364
What Should You Do?
Given the Sierra's strong resale value (estimated 45-50% at 5 years) and the similar financial outcomes between buying and leasing, leasing might be the safer bet. It allows you to enjoy the truck without taking on the long-term risk.
Conclusion
The GMC Sierra has come a long way, offering a compelling mix of style, quality, and value. Whether you choose to buy or lease, make sure to take advantage of the current incentives and negotiate for the best possible deal.
Want more details or personalized advice? Check out the links in the description for local dealer pricing and a cheat sheet. And if you found this information helpful, don't forget to subscribe!
