2007 Chevrolet Silverado & 2007 GMC Sierra

These new GMT900s aren't just better than the trucks they replace; they're out to change the way people think about trucks.

We got an early look at the new Silverado platform and spoke with engineers who've spent the last five years developing the GMT900 trucks. They're ready to tell their story, and the first thing they want you to know is that much of the technology that went into the currently popular full-size SUVs (Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban, Avalanche, Escalade, Denali) came from the work they were doing on the GMT900 pickups. They're pleased the Tahoe, Escalade, and Yukon are selling well (all three sales numbers far exceed last year's), mostly because it could be a predictor of what happens when their Silverado hits the market.

As with the SUVs, there's not much carryover on this new platform. The foundation starts with a new frame, most of the engineering effort going into the all-new coil-over front end and recalibrated rear leaf suspension. Dynamics engineers were tasked with making the unloaded ride and handling far superior to the previous torsion-bar setup, while increasing payload and towing stability at or near maximum load and carrying weights. To achieve their goal, they widened the track, incorporated a new rack-and-pinion steering unit, and used advanced computer software to more accurately tune leaf-spring ratings to shock valving to frame harmonics to various load scenarios.

The maximum towing number for the new pickup is a class-leading 10,500 pounds, with a class-leading maximum payload rating of 2070 pounds. However, that might not be the most impressive detail about the new Silverado and Sierra, especially since we now know what they look like.