New 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid

With the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid, you get a sturdy full-size pickup with a giant motor and un-truck-like fuel economy thanks to GM’s state-of-the-art hybrid system.

That giant motor is a 332-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-8 and is teamed up with dual electric motors, which are powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and an electric continuously variable transmission. Friction during braking generates energy that is captured by a regenerative braking system to recharge the battery pack, which essentially adds up to free mileage for you. Power is delivered to a two- or four-wheel drive system.

Fuel economy is up 40 percent in the city and 25 percent overall as compared to the regular Sierra 1500. In other words, you get an EPA-estimated 21mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, with either two- or four-wheel drive. The only other hybrid truck on the planet is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid, but for reference the Sierra Hybrid matches the more expensive Chrysler Aspen Hybrid SUV with over 6,000 pounds of towing capacity, matches it on mileage, and carries almost as many people (six versus eight).

Most of what you love about the GMC Sierra 1500 is captured in the Sierra 1500 Hybrid. The 3HA model base truck comes with cloth seats, power windows and doors, dual zone climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, CD player, Bluetooth phone connectivity, XM Satellite Radio and OnStar satellite communications, while power seating and a sunroof are optional. The 3HB model adds power leather seats, a navigation system and XM’s NavTraffic with real-time traffic updates.

If you like being safe, there is another reason to love the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid. With a big sturdy truck frame and airbags at the front, front-side and two-row head positions, the Sierra has you fully defended for impact situations. As you would expect, the Sierra Hybrid receives Five-Star front-crash ratings from NHTSA. To prevent your own crash testing, the Sierra Hybrid has big disc brakes with the antilock feature at all four corners, plus traction and stability control systems.

With the right balance of fuel efficiency and full-size pickup utility, it is so easy to develop amatory relations with the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid. Go ahead, fall in love.