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2006 GMC Sierra

For the 2006 model year, Sierra's new VortecMAX Performance Package enhances towing capability; an increase in the 5.3L V-8 engine's gross vehicle weight rating is expected to deliver segment-best payload levels on extended and Crew Cab models; and engine upgrades to the Duramax Diesel 6600 are intended to provide class-leading horsepower and torque. In addition, the Sierra Heavy-Duty lineup is bolstered with the Allison 1000 Series transmission, which grows from a five-speed automatic to a first-in-class six-speed.

Sierra's versatility also expands with new models, including an Extended Cab with short-length cargo box (available with 2WD or 4WD) and new base-model 1500 SL Crew Cab models (2WD and 4WD) that carry a lower MSRP than previous Crew Cab models. In addition, the availability of 20-inch chrome wheels expands on 2WD and 4WD Extended Cab and Crew Cab models with the Sierra Special Edition, available on SLE/SLT trims.

Also in 2006, the Sierra Hybrid pickup will be available nationwide. Featuring the best highway fuel economy of any full-size V-8 pickup, the Sierra Hybrid also features generating capacity for four, ground-fault protected 120-volt electrical outlets.

Source - GM Media

2006 SIERRA LINEUP BROADENS WITH NEW MODELS AND SIGNIFICANT LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENTS

2006 GMC Sierra
GMC Sierra's broad lineup of body styles, powertrains and traction systems gives full-size truck customers almost limitless choices to tackle any job or recreational interest – and do it with Professional Grade confidence.

For the 2006 model year, Sierra's versatility expands with new models, including an Extended Cab with short-length cargo box (available with 2WD or 4WD) and new base-model 1500 SL Crew Cab models (2WD and 4WD) that carry a lower MSRP than previous Crew Cab models.

On the performance front, a new VortecMAX Performance Package delivers improved towing; an increase in the 5.3L V-8 engine's gross vehicle weight rating results in improved payload levels on extended and Crew Cab models; and engine upgrades to the Duramax Diesel 6600 result in enhanced horsepower and torque. In addition, the Sierra Heavy-Duty lineup is bolstered with the Allison 1000 Series transmission, which grows from a five-speed automatic to a six-speed.

Sierra models are available with 2WD, 4WD and, with the unique Sierra Denali, full-time all-wheel drive. And because Sierra customers do more than haul construction equipment, the availability of stylish 20-inch chrome wheels expands in '06 on light duty. For heavy duty models, chrome-clad 16-inch wheels are available for the Crew Cab long box/single rear wheel models.

Here's a closer look at all that's new with Sierra in 2006:

Sierra 1500 Extended Cab/Short Box models: The Sierra 1500 is now available with a new extended cab/short box configuration. Available with 2WD or 4WD, the extended cab design is matched with a 5-foot 8-inch box – the same as Crew Cab models – giving customers three bed choices: short, standard (6-feet 6-inches) and long (8-feet).

Sierra extended cab/short box models are available with SLE or SLT trim and include the Vortec 5300 V-8 (LM7), which is rated at 295 horsepower (220 kw) and 335 lb.-ft. of torque (463 Nm). Two-wheel drive models have a GVWR of 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg); the 4WD model has a 6,400-pound (2903 kg) GVWR. Twenty-inch wheels are available, as are the popular sunroof and manual-sliding rear window features that were introduced in 2005.

Sierra SL Crew Cab model: A new base-model SL Crew Cab model, available in 2WD or 4WD, allows customers to select the useful Crew Cab configuration at a lower MSRP. Compared with uplevel Crew Cab models, the new SL offers the Vortec 4800 V-8 as standard equipment. Chrome 17-inch wheels and remote keyless entry are among the standard features.

Crew Cab SL models receive a standard Z85 suspension, along with a 3.23 axle for 2WD models and 3.73 rear axle with 4WD models – 4WD models come with a manual-control transfer case.

VortecMAX Performance Package: The VortecMAX performance package with enhanced Heavy Duty towing is designed to increase the towing capability of 4WD models of the Sierra 1500 extended cab/standard-length box and Sierra 1500 Crew Cab. The package includes a high-output Vortec 6000 engine rated at 345 horsepower (257 kw) and 380 lb.-ft. of torque (515 Nm), 17-inch wheels, a heavy-duty trailering package, new 9.5-inch rear axle, automatic locking differential, VortecMAX door badging and engine cover.

The high-output 6.0L engine and heavy-duty 9.5-inch axle help give Sierra improved towing capability. The package enables a 10,000-pound towing capacity on the extended cab model and up to 9,900 pounds with the Crew Cab.

Sierra Performance Edition: For SLE/SLT Extended Cab 2WD models, the Sierra Performance Edition pairs the VortecMAX high-output Vortec 6000 powertrain with 20-inch chrome wheels, which combine to create a powerful and road-ready Sierra. This package also includes a VortecMax door badge and engine cover, 3.73 rear axle, high performance suspension, HD automatic transmission, HD trailering, HD oil cooler, automatic locking differential, engine oil cooling system and traction control.

GVWR increase: Performance improvements will also be realized on extended and Crew Cab models powered by the 5.3L V-8 engine as a gross vehicle weight rating increase results in improved payload levels.

New diesel engine: An all-new version of the Duramax 6600 turbo-diesel V-8 engine will debut in the interim 2006 model year as an option on Sierra Heavy Duty models. When mated to an all-new Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission, the new powerplant will deliver more horsepower – 360 hp (268 kw) at 3200 rpm – and increased torque, at 650 lb.-ft. (881 Nm). The power increase comes with lower emissions and significantly improved quietness and smoothness.

The Duramax 6600's horsepower and torque increase and emissions reduction are enabled by a strengthened iron cylinder block and a lower compression ratio. The lower compression reduces stress on the engine by reducing the peak cylinder firing pressure. This, in turn, allows more fuel to be burned – more fuel means more power – while the lower compression helps reduce NOx emissions. Lower compression also helps reduce noise and vibration, making the 6600 a quieter and smoother engine.

A revised variable-geometry turbocharger also enhances the driving experience of the Duramax 6600. Aerodynamic changes to the turbo's impellers help tailor controlled application of turbo power for seamless and immediate response at full throttle. The turbo, which spins at up to 120,000 rpm, is high-speed-balanced, reducing vibration and resonance – and contributing to the engine's overall smoothness and refinement. The revised turbo also helps reduce emissions, while maximum boost remains at 20 psi.

Another new feature of the Duramax 6600's turbo system is the capability of the variable-geometry turbocharger to provide exhaust braking. This function is available on some medium duty truck models and can replace add-on exhaust brake hardware. With the new system, braking is controlled by a signal from the engine controller and can be activated by the driver.

The comprehensive list of changes and upgrades to the 2006 Duramax 6600 includes:

Cylinder block casting and machining changes strengthen the bottom of the cylinder bores to support increased horsepower and torque
Úpgraded main bearing material increases durability
Revised piston design helps lower compression ratio to 16.8:1 from 17.5:1
Piston pin bore diameter increased to for increased strength
Connecting rod 'I' section is thicker for increased strength
Cylinder heads revised to accommodate lower compression and reduced cylinder firing pressure
Maximum injection pressure increased from 23,000 psi to almost 26,000 psi
Fuel delivered via higher-pressure pump, fuel rails, distribution lines and all-new, seven-hole fuel injectors
Fuel injectors spray directly onto glow plugs, providing faster, better-quality starts and more complete cold-start combustion for reduced emissions
Improved glow plugs heat up faster through an independent controller
Revised variable-geometry turbocharger is aerodynamically more efficient to help deliver smooth and immediate response and lower emissions
Air induction system re-tuned to enhance quietness
EGR has larger cooler to bring more air into the system
First application of new, 32-bit E35 controller, which adjusts and compensates for the fuel flow to bolster efficiency and reduce emissions
The Duramax 6600 also has a new intake air heater to reduce smoke and emissions during cold or light-load driving. The system features a 600-watt grid heater located in the air intake duct, which is triggered automatically by the engine controller. It heats up the incoming air to speed warm-up of the engine.

Allison six-speed Tap Shift automatic transmission: The Allison 1000 transmission grows from a five-speed automatic to a six-speed automatic. It's available for 2006 Sierra HD models equipped with the Duramax 6600 6.6L V-8 diesel or Vortec 8100 8.1L V-8. The transmission features a class-first range selection function, as well as offering enhanced fuel economy, quietness and control. The range selection function allows the driver to easily select the desired gears to match driving conditions, such as towing a trailer on a steep grade.

The sixth gear – essentially a second overdrive gear – enables a wide, 5.08:1 overall forward gear ratio and allows the vehicle's engine to operate at lower rpm, particularly during higher-speed driving on highways and freeways. Its 0.61 ratio provides a 1550-rpm engine speed at 60 mph, compared with the five-speed transmission's 1800-rpm engine speed at 60 mph. The engine uses less fuel at lower rpm, enabling increased fuel mileage and range. The ratios of gears 1 through 5 remain the same as the Allison 1000 five-speed, including the 0.75:1 fifth gear.

A tow/haul mode is retained on the Allison 1000 six-speed, but it is complemented by a new range selection feature that allows the driver to select the desired gears via a thumb-activated switch on the shifter. This provides a feeling of enhanced control in unique driving situations, such as towing on a steep grade. The range selection feature holds the gear pre-selected by the driver and electronic safeguards prevent the transmission from being shifted in a manner that could cause engine damage or loss of vehicle control.

Diesel-engine vehicles equipped with the Allison 1000 six-speed feature cruise control grade braking. Working in harmony with the tow/haul mode, the cruise grade braking system will automatically downshift to help maintain the pre-selected cruise speed when driving on downhill grades. A new low-traction mode also is standard on vehicles equipped with the diesel engine. When the driver selects second gear while stopped and wheel slip occurs, the transmission torque-manages the engine to limit tire slip on slippery road surfaces.

Additional changes for '06 Sierra Hybrid models available nationwide: Previously available in select markets, the Sierra 1500 Hybrid is available nationally in the 2006 model year. The Sierra Hybrid promises up to 10 percent fuel economy improvement through its ability to automatically stop and restart the engine under different operating circumstances. Instead of a conventional starter motor and alternator, the hybrid pickup use a compact 14-kw electric induction motor or starter generator integrated in a patented, space-efficient manner between the engine and transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The starter generator provides fast, quiet starting power and allows automatic engine stops/starts to conserve fuel. (concept carz) It also smoothes out any driveline surges; generates electrical current to charge the batteries and run auxiliary power outlets; and provides coast-down regenerative braking, to improve fuel economy.

The standard Vortec 5300 V-8 engine delivers 295 horsepower (220 kw) and 335 lb.-ft. (463 Nm) of torque – the same as its non-hybrid counterpart – along with the capability of acting as a mobile power-generating station, including four 120-volt/20-amp electrical auxiliary power outlets (APO). The power outlets are located under the rear seat of the cab and in the pickup bed. Customers can conveniently operate power equipment without taking up the bed space typical portable generators would use.

Sierra Special Edition: The availability of 20-inch chrome wheels expands on 2WD and 4WD Extended Cab and Crew Cab models via the Sierra Special Edition (B2E). The Sierra Special Edition is available on SLE/SLT trims and includes the Light Duty Power Package (5.3L, automatic locking differential, HD Trailering), 3.73 rear axle, high-performance suspension, automatic climate control and steering wheel controls. Chrome-clad 16-inch steel wheels are available for 3500 Crew Cab long box models with single rear wheels.

Camper mirror: A new power-adjustable glass with manual-extending camper mirror is available. This vertical mirror has a larger glass area than previous camper mirrors and manually extends outward to provide a greater view when towing a trailer or camper. It includes heated, power-adjustable flat glass and integrated turn signals. A convex 'spotter mirror' glass also has been added to the mirror, which gives the mirror a 20-inch improved field of view. The vertical design and new spotter mirror section answer customer requests for such a configuration.

Single OnStar/XM antenna: All '06 Sierra models equipped with OnStar and XM Satellite Radio have a new, single-unit antenna that eliminates the need for two separate antennas.

Exterior colors: Steel Gray Metallic and Stealth Gray Metallic have been added to the list of exterior color choices.

Diverse lineup

The GMC Sierra is offered in a diverse array of configurations, including regular, extended or Crew Cab body styles; standard 6-foot 6-inch (2 m) or extended 8-foot (2.4 m) cargo boxes, along with the new 5-foot 8-inch short box. Half-ton, three-quarter-ton and one-ton models deliver tremendous payload and towing capability for almost any need.

An impressive array of Vortec engines is offered in 1500 models: a 4300 4.3 L V-6; 4800 4.8L V-8; two models of the Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8; and the powerful Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8. Engine output ranges from 195 hp (145 kw) all the way up to 345 hp (257 kw) in the Sierra Denali. The workhorse Vortec 8100 V-8 and Duramax Diesel 6600 engines pull more than their weight in heavy-duty models.

In addition to the hybrid version, Sierra can also be ordered in several reduced-emissions or alternative-fuel variations. All Sierra models with the Vortec 4300 4.3L V-6, and those sold in California with the Vortec 4800 4.8L or Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8, have a robust catalytic converter system that meets Últra Low Emission Vehicle (ÚLEV) standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) Models equipped with the Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8 come with a dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) or bi-fuel system that can run on CNG or gasoline.

Light-duty Sierra models with the Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 offer an option that enables owners to operate them on varying blends of ethanol and gasoline, up to a maximum of 85 percent ethanol.

Sierra also can be equipped to meet any personal requirement or professional demand when it comes to hauling or towing. Payload capacities range from 1,295 pounds (587 kg) all the way to 4,047 pounds (1,836 kg) for 2500 heavy duty models. Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings range from 6,100 pounds (2,767 kg) to 10,100 pounds (4,173 kg) on the 1500 Extended Cab with standard-length box and 4WD.

Sierra Heavy Duty pickups offer a wide selection of weight ratings, body styles and powertrain combinations, including diesel and compressed natural gas (CNG) models. At the top of the gasoline engine range is the available Vortec 8100 8.1L V-8, rated at 330 hp (246 kw) and 450 lb.-ft. (610 Nm) of torque. The available Duramax Diesel engine is enhanced for '06 with improved performance, smoothness and quietness.

Many Sierra HD models can run on dedicated (CNG) or bi-fuel systems, the latter of which operates on either CNG or gasoline when equipped with a Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8 with hardened valves and seals to withstand CNG's lack of lubricity and cooling. Special versions with reduced gross vehicle weight ratings (8,500 pounds or 3,825 kg) enable customers to meet fleet requirements in 'non-attainment' areas, while GVWR ratings of up to 9,200 pounds (4,173 kg) are available.

With impressive power, tough frames, advanced suspensions and high-capacity brakes, the 2500HD/3500 Series provides outstanding payload capacities as well as outstanding hauling and towing capabilities. The 2500 HD models have a GVWR of as much as 9,200 pounds (4,173 kg), and payloads up to 3,964 pounds (1,798 kg). The 3500

Series pickup models have a GVWR up to 11,400 pounds (5,171 kg) and payloads up to 5,753 pounds (2,610 kg).

For chassis cab models, Sierra HD has an 11,400-pound (5,171-kg) GVWR for 2WD versions and a 12,000-pound (5,443 kg) GVWR when equipped with 4WD. Chassis cabs provide payloads up to 6,089 pounds (2,762 kg).

Safety features

2006 GMC Sierra
All Sierra 1500 models are equipped with GM's Passenger Sensing System, which uses the latest sensing technology to turn the front passenger air bag on or off. If the sensor system detects an unoccupied front passenger seat or the presence of a smaller occupant, the front passenger air bag is designed to automatically turn off so it would not deploy in the event of a frontal collision. A status indicator on the inside rearview mirror alerts occupants that the passenger air bag is on or off. Even with this system, GM strongly recommends restraining child passengers in an appropriate child seat placed in the rear of the vehicle. Owners should never install a rear-facing infant seat in front of an active air bag. GM also recommends that all children 12 and under ride in the rear seat when possible.
The GMC Sierra also has dual-stage frontal air bags (not available on 1500HD Crew Cab, 2500HD and 3500 Series models) for supplemental protection for front seat passengers. Dual-stage frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of air bag-induced injury. When the air bag system's control unit detects an impact, it determines whether the crash is severe enough to trigger a deployment, and whether the primary amount of inflation is sufficient. The primary stage alone will deploy in most frontal impacts requiring the supplemental protection of an air bag, while a secondary stage is designed to deploy in more severe frontal collisions.

For '06, GM's OnStar safety and security system is available with the OnStar Plus Package, which is available on SLE and SLT light duty models. In the heavy-duty range, OnStar is available on SLE and SLT 2500 HD and 3500 models. OnStar is standard on Sierra Denali. OnStar-equipped Sierras feature OnStar dual-mode (analog-digital) equipment. OnStar's digital equipment also includes enhanced hands-free voice recognition capabilities including more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and information services in the Únited States and Canada . Úsing the GPS satellite network and wireless technology, OnStar features core safety services and OnStar Hands-Free Calling that allows drivers to make and receive voice-activated phone calls using an externally mounted antenna for greater reception.

Additional safety and security systems include electronic traction control on 2WD Sierra models to enhance handling and response on models equipped with a V-8 engine, automatic transmission and locking rear differential. All models come standard with PASSLock II theft deterrent system, and a driver information center that monitors and reports on numerous vehicle system functions.

Air conditioning, chrome front bumpers, tinted glass, power steering with tilt-adjustable column, a full-size spare tire and heavy-duty battery also are standard on all Sierra models.

Impressive entertainment options

2006 GMC Sierra
Numerous entertainment systems – from available Bose sound systems to a Panasonic DVD passenger entertainment system – add to Sierra's comforts. These systems (except the base fleet radio) feature the next-generation Radio Data System, and can interface with services such as the optional XM Satellite Radio. On Crew Cab models, available rear-seat audio controls allow second-row passengers to enjoy a separate audio source from front-seat occupants.

Source - GMC

New for 2006

• New Extended Cab short box models (2WD and 4WD), with Vortec 5300 V-8 and available 20-inch wheels

• New 2WD/4WD SL Crew Cab model

• VortecMAX Performance Package with enhanced towing capability available on 2WD and 4WD Extended Cab and Crew Cab models. Includes high-output Vortec 6000 V-8 with 345 hp (257 kw), 9.5-inch rear axle and 17-inch wheels.

• Sierra Performance Edition available on 2WD Extended Cab models, includes VortecMAX high-output Vortec 6000 V-8 with 345 hp (257 kw) and 20-inch wheels
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating increase on 5.3L V-8 engine-equipped extended and Crew Cab models.


2006 GMC Sierra• Duramax 6600 diesel engine with enhanced horsepower and increased torque

• Allison 1000 six-speed tap shift automatic transmission

• Sierra Hybrid models available nationwide


• Sierra Special Edition with 20-inch wheels available on Extended Cab/Crew Cab models (2WD or 4WD)

• Power-adjustable manual extendable camper mirror glass with increased field of vision

• Two new exterior colors: Steel Gray Metallic and Stealth Gray Metallic

OnStar and XM Satellite Radio antennas combined into a single unit•

2006 GMC Sierra• Available chrome-clad steel wheels for 3500 Crew Cab long box with single rear wheels

Source - GMC

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