Engine choices for 1500 models range from a basic 4.3-liter V6, up through a 4.8-liter V8 (standard in extended cabs), and a 5.3-liter V8. Hard-working 2500s come with a 300-horsepower, 6.0-liter V8.

As before, Sierras come in SL, SLE and SLT trim levels. SL-trim trucks with the 4.3-liter, 4.8-liter, or 6.0-liter engines can be ordered with a five-speed manual transmission; all SLE and SLT models, and even SL-trimmed 5.3-liter models, come with a four-speed automatic.

New for 2001 is the fully equipped Sierra C3, a separate model packing a 325-horsepower version of the 6.0-liter V8, along with automatic transmission and an exclusive, sophisticated full-time all-wheel-drive system. The C3 offers more towing capacity and a greater payload capacity than the 1500 models. A black-painted machine-textured grille and body-colored mirrors, door handles, and moldings distinguish the C3 from other Sierras. GMC plans to sell about 15,000 a year.

Gone for 2001 is the three-door version of the extended cab, with its single rear-opening door on the curbside; GMC began offering a four-door version last year, and now all extended cabs have four doors.

Prices cover a broad range, starting at $16,525 for a six-cylinder 1500 SL 2WD, and more than doubling to $38,305 for the C3. (The C3 price sounds high until you remember that it includes virtually every conceivable option.) A short-box, 4WD extended-cab SLE would include the 4.8-liter V8 for $28,266; and many popular 2WD models list in the $22,000-$26,000 range.

For even heavier-duty hauling, GMC builds the three-quarter-ton Sierra 2500HD and 3500; look for a separate nctd.com review of the all-new heavy-duty trucks.