To boost the appeal of its 2016 Sierra heavy duty pickup for those seeking to fully exploit its towing capabilities, GMC has added a new gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package to the factory option list for the Sierra 2500 and 3500 models as well as a new completion kit available through its dealers. Owners of all 2014-2016 Sierra models with DPN/DQS-code trailering mirrors also will be able to fit their trucks with a new trailering camera system that improve the driver’s side and rear visibility.
Also: Class of 2017 – New Cars Ready to Roll
Priced at $350, the new basic prep package consists of a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray that can accommodate a gooseneck ball hitch or fifth-wheel hitch-mounting brackets. The platform resides under the bed floor and the hitch itself can be removed when not in use. Rounding out the prep kit are caps for the openings in the floor as well as a bed-mounted 7-way trailer wiring connection. To finish the job, GMC dealers are offering a gooseneck completion kit for $315 that includes a 2 5/15 ball hitch and two chain tie downs as well as 20,000-lb ($939) and 25,000-lb ($999) fifth-wheel hitches from CURT Manufacturing. Fitted with the fifth-wheel upgrade, the Sierra 2500HD can tow a maximum of 18,000 lbs. while the 3500HD has a rating of 17,500 lbs. in standard form and 23,200 lbs. in “dually” configuration.
Also: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards of 2016
For added safety and convenience, GMC dealers also will offer a new blind-spot assist tow package. Co-developed with Echomaster and starting at $999, it consists of three cameras: two integrated into the side mirror housings and one mounted on the top rearmost edge of the trailer. Hardwired to the trailer lights and activated when the transmission is placed in reverse, it also features infrared capability to improve the view in low light. Images from all three cameras can be seen on the truck’s IntelliLink display. Later this summer, GMC will expand the system by offering a fourth camera integrated into the high-mount brake lamp to offer views of the bed contents and/or hitch.
More GMC News…
