MILFORD, MI – General Motors has unveiled its two new full-size pickups, the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and the GMC Sierra. The trucks feature completely revamped exteriors and interiors, as well as new powertrain, chassis, and safety systems. It is the first time they have been redesigned since 1999. “GM’s full-size pickups are its highest volume products, and as such are the most important component in the most important part of our turnaround plan,” said GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner. To underscore the urgency of that plan, Wagoner said GM pulled forward the release of the full-size pickups by 13 weeks. The Silverado/Sierra is the first pair of pickups to get more than 20 miles per gallon with a 300 horsepower engine, using advanced technology such as Active Fuel Management (AFM) and variable valve timing (VVT). Both are E-85-compatible. GM is touting the new designs as “sleeker and more aerodynamic” with reduced wind noise and more storage space. Highlights of the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra include:

• GM says it is the first manufacturer to have two unique interiors. GM used the design from its ‘07 SUV interiors for the up-model LTZ, SLT, and Sierra Denali models. The LT and SL series have their own unique interiors.
  

• Three box lengths — short (5 foot, 8 inches), standard (6 foot, 6 inches) and long (8 foot).
  

• Eight powertrain combinations; five suspension packages.
  

• Light-duty payload capacities from 1,564 to 2,160 lbs.
  

• Light-duty trailering capability from 4,300 to 10,500 lbs.

  GM said the light-duty crew cabs and extended cabs would hit showrooms in October. The regular cabs become available in November, and by February, all heavy-duty variants for both brands will be on the market. Pricing has not yet been released.