There's an industry-wide trend stimulated by rising fuel prices  for auto makers to steer away from large SUVs and trucks in favor of smaller, car-like crossover vehicles that offer better fuel economy and, sadly, lower tow ratings. As a result, many SUV and minivan models are being dropped from production, leaving boaters with fewer valid tow vehicle options.

In the face of this movement, the redesigned 2007 GMC Sierra stands in stark contrast. It's both larger and more powerful than its predecessor, and as a result, its towing capacity has been increased substantially. The nice part is that these improvements don't come at the expense of poorer gas mileage. To the contrary, GMC touts the new Sierra as more fuel efficient  than earlier versions, thanks in large measure to the addition of GM's new  Vortec Gen IV V8 engines. These technologically advanced engines come with features like Active Fuel Management, which automatically shuts down four   of the eight cylinders when they're not needed; Variable Valve Timing (VVT), a technology that optimizes camshaft timing to improve low-rpm torque and high-rpm horsepower; and FlexFuel, which gives customers the choice of using E85 ethanol, gasoline, or a combination of both fuels.

To see how the all-new Sierra 1500 performs with a boat in tow, we borrow a Yamaha SX210 from Castaic Marine and hit the road. The boat and trailer weigh about 4,500 pounds, which is well within the test rig's 7,500-pound towing capacity. (Properly equipped, the Sierra leads the light-truck segment with a maximum tow rating of 10,500 pounds.) Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes about 17 seconds, which is pretty respectable, and fuel usage while towing is almost 12 miles per gallon. Throughout the tow test, the Sierra performs well. The vehicle comes equipped with a Tow/Haul mode, which allows the four-speed automatic transmission to hold gears longer to transfer more torque when needed, thereby eliminating gear hunting when climbing hills.

Improvements to the new Sierra are numerous and noteworthy. It rides on GM's new full-size platform, which features an extra-strong, fully-boxed, hydroformed frame, a plus when it comes to towing. Additional improvements include stronger brakes, a new coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and StabiliTrak, GM's electronic stability system. Side curtain airbags and rear park assist are also new features. Exterior styling is fresh and appealing, and the interior is new. In fact, customers can choose between two distinct interiors: pure work pickup or luxurious family-style.

The test vehicle is an Extended Cab SLT with 4WD. While the added weight of 4WD components lowers a vehicle's towing capacity a little, you can't beat it when you're launching a heavy boat on a steep, slippery ramp. Our rig is also equipped with a trailering package consisting of a high-capacity air cleaner; transmission cooling system; heavy-duty, auto-locking differential; and other extra-strong trailering components — a $675 option worth every penny. Other options, including a touch-screen navigation system and a nifty cargo management system, push the price as tested from $34,250 up to $41,385. No matter how you outfit it, the all-new Sierra is a breath of fresh air in a world that's cutting corners.


GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 4WD

Engine: 5.3L V8
Horsepower: 315
Torque: 338 lb.-ft.
Passengers: 6
Ground Clearance (min.): 9 inches
Cargo Capacity (max.): 60.7 cubic feet
Towing Capacity: 7,500 lbs.
Fuel Economy: 11.5/14.3 (towing/non-towing, as tested)
Price As Tested: $41,385