GMC Sierra Interior

First generation Sierras and Silverados were generally the same make and virtually indistinguishable if viewed from the interior. The Sierra did retain the bare essentials, such as manual windows, A/C, vinyl carpeting, and analog dash display. With a standard FM radio, three seater cab, and vinyl seating, you’ll be hard pressed to find a first generation Sierra in good condition or with many interior upgrades.

If you wanted to upgrade to a truck with more creature comforts and modern day features then you had to opt for the Denali. The 99’ Denali, or GMC's luxury model, featured comfortable leather seating, GMC’s Onstar wireless system, and pristine Zebrano wood trim. Unfortunately, most Silverado and Sierra 1500s had more basic interior packages when compared to the Dodge Ram or the Ford F150. 

In 2000, the Silverado and Sierra got a driver’s side rear door, and four door extended cab models were introduced. Select models were available with cloth seats, and quadrasteer was featured on most standard GMC models.

GMC eventually did start updating Sierras with interior creature comforts, such as a rear entertainment system in 2003 and a standard CD player in 2004. GMC also introduced ABS brakes, cruise control, and power locks to all standard GMC vehicles. Generally speaking, the Sierra’s brand was built around utility, and GMC didn’t feel any need to upgrade much of its interior features until the 2nd generation.

Fortunately, the second generation of Sierras not only received a completely redesigned appearance, but a complete interior makeover as well. With available two door standard cabs and four door extended cabs available, GMC also introduced five different trim levels for the Sierra 1500. 

This included select Denali trims (SLE1, SLE2, SLE3), and standard work truck styling. GMC also updated Sierra’s cramped storage capacity and gave it more room with larger storage compartments and glove boxes.

The Sierra 1500 received a redesigned dashboard package with a choice of a luxury or pickup dash. The pickup dash made room for the passenger seat, but it also got rid of the center console. Denali and select luxury Sierra models also got more comfortable leather seating, rear parking assist, and remote startup. 

The 2009 half-ton models enjoyed revised interior door panels and an additional cup holder. Beyond this, GMC started introducing more standard features into the Sierra, including satellite radio and USB ports. Vinyl cloth seats came standard on most 1500 models, although cloth upholstery was available in the SLT and Denali models. These also included front bucket seats with heating and cooling for extra comfort.

While the Sierra’s cut and dry appearance still remained standard on all 1500s, GMC did start to add many interior packaging options that helped the Sierra compete with other GM trucks.

With a Bose Stereo system, power sunroof, and a select navigation system, the Sierra began to incorporate previous luxury items into standard models. Today, most standard models still come with vinyl carpeting, a center console, and infotainment systems.

While not much has changed for the Sierra internally over the past few years, it’s still more spacious and holds many more creature comforts than previous iterations. 

luxury feel and add more value to your truck. You can update your Sierra’s mute colors with some chrome polished door sills or track design pedal covers. 

You can also customize the color of your vehicle by adding different colored floor mats from tan liners to all-terrain black. These upgrades not only add style to your vehicle, but they also protect your interior trim from scratches, holes, and other damage it can withstand overtime. 

One of the most popular aftermarket purchases Sierra owners make is seat covers for off-roading. This protects seats from water damage, mud, and any other substance that could stain or ruin the upholstery.

Sun shields also seek to protect your interior trim and upholstery by shielding your seats from the sun. This helps prevent fading or cracking from excessive sunlight and UV exposure. 

While the new Sierra is the most spacious of its kind, you can also improve upon interior storage features. Common upgrades include:

• Mounted gun racks
• Underseat storage boxes
• Center console insert
• Center console lock box
• CargoTech containment system