2020 GMC Sierra Keeps Tailgate Exclusive Plus Adds Tech

GMC is well aware that it has two huge exclusives going for it in the current pickup truck sales wars and it is keeping those advantages exclusive for 2020. For now, the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 will be the only truck on the market with the MultiPro 6- position tailgate. It will also be the only truck offering the CarbonPro pickup bed. GMC is adding technology like Adaptive Cruise Control and the ProGrade trailering system that uses more camera views to improve towing.

“The Sierra is delivering the tech customers want in the light-duty truck market, and the 2020 model demonstrates that Professional Grade means never slowing down,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global GMC. “In just its first year on the market, the 2019 Sierra introduced the available, industry-first CarbonPro Bed and MultiPro tailgate. The truck’s 2020 updates show how the Sierra continues to raise the bar year in and year out.”

Making Towing Easier and Safer
GMC says the enhanced ProGrade trailering system will have 15 available camera views, the most of any pickup. It will also connect with an in-vehicle trailering app to help the driver better manage towing.

According to GMC “New for 2020, the available transparent trailer view uses the tailgate-mounted camera and an available accessory camera mounted on the rear of the trailer.” The additional view is meant to help the driver almost see through the trailer so they can better navigate parking lots and turning corners. The ProGrade trailering system was originally introduced on the upcoming 2020 Sierra HD. The in-vehicle trailering app will keep records on trailer maintenance and specifications, making it easier for the driver.

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Making Trailering More Convenient
The in-vehicle app may also boost connectivity, allowing the driver to control a number of aspects in the trailer. The level of connectivity depends on how compatible the trailer is with the new truck. In theory, the driver of the 2020 Sierra 1500 could control the trailer’s air conditioning, water heater, and generator from the truck.

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 will also feature the rear camera mirror. The rear camera mirror uses an extra camera to provide a wide view. It gives the driver the ability to see around typical obstructions like passengers or cargo in the pickup bed. The driver can even tilt or zoom the camera to better see what is behind the vehicle.

GMC is also expanding the availability of the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel and making the turbo-diesel available with the CarbonPro truck bed. The 3.0L Duramax produces 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy numbers should be released closer to launch.

The CarbonPro truck bed is the first in the truck industry. It is believed to increase durability while GMC says it provides best-in-class dent and corrosion resistance. The lighter weight of the carbon fiber should help with fuel economy.

The real game changer for the segment however is the MultiPro tailgate. The tailgate has six different positions making it easier to load the truck bed. It also helps load-stop items in the truck bed, while also providing a standing workstation. So far neither Ford nor Ram has figured out how to build a similar tailgate, so it will remain a GMC exclusive, at least for now.

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