Any GMC dealer can tell you that this brand is known for offering powerful trucks and SUVs. In fact, let’s just be straightforward – wimpy little cars are not in GMC’s vocabulary. The smallest model that GMC sells is the Terrain, which is still (you guessed it) an SUV. That said, while there are no cars under GMC’s belt, what exactly are GMC’s current strongest models? The short answer is the Hummer EV, the Yukon, and the Sierra HD. These three models are GMC’s toughest vehicles in the lineup, and we’re excited to give you the long answer by delving deeper into these three tough models.
What Do We Mean By “Power?”
Power and strength can mean different things to different drivers. In this case, we’re referring to any of the following: exceptional engine power, towing capacity, and off-road capability. Those three things are what make a vehicle “powerful” to us. If a vehicle can’t offer any of those three features, we do not consider it to be a powerful model. These three models aren’t just casual commuters or models to look cool in; they’re vehicles that will help you tackle rough terrain and handle hardcore towing and hauling.
The 2021 Hummer EV: Truck And SUV
Ah, yes, the Hummer is back and more eco-friendly than ever. While the new Hummer is an electric model, that by no means makes it incapable. Let’s review the stats.
First off, we are counting the Hummer EV as one model here. However, technically speaking, there are two separate models with differing specs. We’ve got the truck version and the SUV version. The truck releases in late 2021, and the SUV will come out in 2023. While you can reserve both models, let’s start with the truck version since it is already available to take home.
The Hummer EV Truck
This sucker has some power. Don’t let the EV label fool you. This model can go from 0 to 60 in as little as 3 seconds! It offers a whopping 1,000 horsepower rating with 11,500 pound-feet of torque. The best part is that the Hummer EV Truck’s power does not take away from its mileage range. This truck can last up to 350 miles on a full charge.
In addition to its speed and range, the EV Truck is also a capable off-roader. Its ground clearance maxes out at 15.9 inches, which is higher than the average Jeep Wrangler’s rating. This model can also ford through up to 32 inches of water. When it’s time to do some hardcore off-roading, Hummer EV truck owners can opt for the off-roading package. This package includes the following features:
- 35-inch Territory MT Tires
- Skid Plates
- Rocker Protectors and Assist Steps
- 18 Camera Views
- Front and Rear E-Lockers
The Hummer has been off the market for years due to its previously unaccepted impracticality. Since the Hummer is so large, it took a lot of gas to power it. Now that it’s available in an all-electric version, it’s possible to own one of these models without burning excessive amounts of gasoline.
The Hummer EV SUV
This model’s SUV version is similar to the pickup truck, but some of the specs are a bit different. Like any good SUV, the Hummer EV SUV comes with a much higher ground clearance than its truck version. You’ll snatch up to 16 inches of ground clearance with this sucker! It also offers better breakover and departure angles, with an incredible 49-degree departure angle if you leave off the spare tire.
This SUV has slightly less horsepower than the truck but still maxes out at 830 horses. Furthermore, it only falls .5 seconds behind the truck in speed, reaching 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds. There’s no denying the power here, and the fact that it’s eco-friendlier than what we’re used to makes the Hummer EV even more appealing.
The 2021 GMC Yukon
This model is designed for family-friendliness, but that doesn’t mean it can’t pack a mean punch. After all, families need something with a good towing capacity to pull boats, small campers, ATVs, and the likes. The 2021 Yukon can tow up to 8,400 pounds when properly equipped while also managing to carry 122 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The best part of it all is that despite its power, the Yukon still gets up to 27 mpg on the highway with its optional diesel engine.
You can also opt for the AT4 trim for max off-roading power. So, not only can drivers reach maximum Yukon tow power, but they can also head off-pavement without a single worry. In fact, the 2021 Yukon AT4 trim won Four Wheeler’s SUV of the Year Award, proving itself to be the best full-sized SUV off-roader around. Family folks who need a good excuse to flex a powerful model can rely on the 2021 Yukon to save the day.
The 2022 Heavy-Duty Sierra
There’s no denying it – if a truck can tow up to 36,000 pounds, it’s easily the winner here. The 2022 GMC Sierra 3500 can do just that. When you choose the Sierra’s 6.6-liter turbo-diesel engine, you’ll get more towing strength than most folks will ever need. This is thanks to 910 pound-feet of torque and the GMC’s renowned 10-speed Allison transmission. This is the kind of power you need to haul large livestock trailers and heavy equipment. These trucks are not for the average driver unless you just like to drop extra money on fuel for no reason. When you just want to look cooler than everyone in your town, only occasionally towing and hauling average items, stick to the 2021 Sierra 1500 model.
Any true tower and hauling will know that all this power means some extra love and care. Back in the day, farmers and heavy-duty truckers had to purchase aftermarket add-ons to help keep their engines from overheating. That’s not the case for the 2022 Sierra heavy-duty model, though. When you choose to go with diesel (as any true HD driver should), you’ll get a standard 28-inch cooling fan to keep the engine from overheating and help the truck reach maximum capability.
Oh, and did we forget to mention that this truck also comes with an off-road mode and a mode specifically for towing and hauling? There’s also an off-roading package, along with a gooseneck/5th wheel package for the ultimate towing experience. This model is perfect for those who live on the farm, own large camping trailers, or simply enjoy flexing over everyone else.
And the Winner Is…
Each model is powerful in its own unique way. Overall, the GMC Sierra Heavy Duty is hands-down the most powerful GMC model on the market right now when it comes to towing and hauling. A tow rating of 36,000 pounds is difficult to compete with. However, when it comes to off-roading, both the Hummer EV and the Yukon AT4 models are equally impressive. The Hummer EV wins the “powerful yet fuel-efficient” title here, whereas the AT4 Yukon and the Sierra 2500 fall short on fuel efficiency.
Drivers who need above-average power and reasonable fuel economy will love the 2021 Yukon diesel as well as the new Hummer EV models. However, when it comes to maximum strength, the Sierra takes the lead. GMC has been known for its powerful trucks for years, but now its SUVs are beginning to catch up. With so many options to choose from now, which powerful GMC model are you proudly representing?
