2018 GMC Sierra 1500

This full-size pickup shares its design with the Chevy Silverado and has great hauling capability and one of the highest tow ratings in the class -- 2,250 and 12,500 pounds respectively -- thanks in large part to its strong available V8 engines. A 285-horsepower 4.3L V6 powers the base Sierra and Sierra SLE, while SLT and Denali models feature a 355-horsepower 5.3L V8, though can also house the available 420-horsepower 6.2L V8. The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 also boasts a rather uncommon powertrain amongst trucks: a new mild-hybrid that doesn’t power the truck on its own but works with the gas engine to boost fuel economy. This Sierra eAssist features the 5.3L V8 paired with an electric motor and the eight-speed automatic transmission standard acro.

Performance Gains & Better Sound

A new aftermarket catback exhaust has a trio of benefits: it will help deepen the Sierra’s exhaust tone, deliver torque and performance gains, and allow for more customisation vis-a-vis exhaust tips and their positioning. A cat-back exhaust replaces everything behind the catalytic converter, which is an important part of any vehicle's emissions system. This is why catbacks are some of the most popular exhaust system upgrades. You reap all the benefits while staying street legal. A cat-back system consists of a rear pipe, a resonator and a muddler, but some manufacturers may include other mods like a mid-pipe, X-pipe, H or Y pipe. They are designed to be freer flowing than stock, with wider piping and higher-grade mandrel tubing. These upgrades reduce the level of back pressure in the engine manifold, meaning the engine can breathe that much better and thus deliver more horsepower and torque. These better flowing pipes when combined with the muffler will also help to deepen the exhaust tone. Exact power gains and sound will vary depending on the catback design and your Sierra’s own configuration. Most catbacks feature a stainless steel construction, so they’ll hold up against some of the toughest weather and terrain conditions. Aluminimised steel is another common material, but it's not as durable as stainless. The final piece of the puzzle is the exhaust exit location: passenger side (before or after the rear tire); both sides after the tire; at the rear with a single exit point or two exit points? You get the picture. There are plenty of options here to make customise your exhaust system as you see fit.

Small Details, Big Reward

Wheel guards, fender trim, pillar posts, the sliding rear window, door sills, window sills - these and more are all small and often overlooked parts of your exterior. Covering them with aftermarket exterior trim piecescan dramatically change the look of the truck. Rocker panel trim for example can often come in sets of 12 or 14 individual pieces that will enhance the body lines of your Sierra. While these might seem like simple decorative mods, these new exterior trim pieces can also add an extra layer of protection. By acting as a barrier, rocker panel trim pieces can prevent any flying road debris from scratching your Sierra’s paint job. Courtesy of their 3M acrylic foam adhesive backing, exterior trim pieces will install in mere minutes and as easily removed should you change your mind. Each piece is laser-cut using the Sierra’s exact measurements, ensuring a perfect fit. Finishes range from black platinum, gloss black to chrome and stainless steel, so regardless of your chosen exterior aesthetic, you’ll be sure to find complementary -- or contrasting -- aftermarket pieces ensure your Sierra has a unique appearance.