From Steak to Beef Jerky: GMC Hopes to Make You Criss-Crossover

General Motors is leaner and meaner, but is it greener? It’s not going from big T-bone steaks to salads, but may be downgrading to beef jerky. As part of a plan to remain viable in a volatile economy, GMC, once GM’s trucks-only division, has plans to expand its range. In addition to its earthy sounding names – Terrain, Granite, Yukon, etc. – GMC is actually getting a little earthy by expanding its hybrid offerings on future models. This represents a crucial shift for the big truck division as it prepares itself for a future where everyone, even truck buyers, want more fuel efficient, wallet and eco-friendly vehicles.

The GMC Granite subcompact crossover, a concept revealed at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, has done what few concepts ever do: Become a real car. The Granite should hit showrooms in the fall of 2012 as a 2013 model. With its big wheels and aggressive, boxy styling, the 2013 GMC Granite could be a domestic alternative against vehicles like Kia Soul, Scion xB, and Nissan Cube.

The 2013 GMC Granite will come with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, while a 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engine may be offered for those seeking a little more power. The Granite offers its own brand of funkiness common to the segment, including rear-hinged doors that open out on the passenger side and enough boxiness to roll with the big boys, or the subcompact crossover boys, anyway
What GMC has got in the works:

GMC Terrain: The Terrain has managed great success in the midsized crossover segment, and we expect that to continue. It offers a roomy, nice ride with decent fuel economy to boot.

• 2013 models to include Denali version
• GM’s eAssist light-hybrid system may appear on 2014 or 2015 models

GMC Acadia: GMC’s larger crossover, the Acadia, delivers a roomy cabin with plenty of cargo room. Its sub-par interior will get a needed touch up.

• 2013 model to receive new grille along with a few cosmetic changes to both the exterior and interior
• A 3.0-liter V6 will replace the 3.6-liter engine
• 2015 should see the release of an all-new Acadia

GMC Yukon, Yukon XL: The Yukon has enjoyed a long successful run in part to its comfortable cabin, excellent towing capability and cushy ride.

• All-new 2014 model to include a more efficient powertrain and an eight-speed transmission
• Future plans include a more dynamic, fuel efficient hybrid system

GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500: GMC’s full-sized Sierra pickup has been a solid get-the-job-done choice for many years. The variety of models and engines also help it remain fixed in the pick-up market.

• New Sierra 1500 engineering and styling for 2014 model year
• More fuel efficient powertrain and a possible eight-speed transmission
• Sierra 2500 and 3500 models are expected to be restyled for the 2014 or 2015 model year, more fuel efficient models likely

GMC Canyon: GMC will discontinue the Canyon. It’s possible that the Chevy Colorado or a similar small to midsized pickup will take its place in the GMC segment in the future.

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