The 2021 GMC Sierra Just Got a Killer New Tailgate Feature as Standard – Well Almost
The tailgate is an often overlooked feature of the pickup truck, well until recently, that is. Over the last few years, some genius designers decided to utilize one of the most unique features the pickup truck offers. Once that box was opened, the tailgate bonanza began. The 2021 GMC Sierra decided to let more customers enjoy the new tailgate-features party.
The 2021 GMC Sierra MultiPro Tailgate is coming to nearly every trim level
According to GM Authority, the 2021 GMC Sierra will include the MultiPro Tailgate as a standard feature for every trim level except the base model. The SLE and Elevation trims are the ones newly given the swiss-army tailgate as standard. Even though the entry-level was left out of the new standard feature implementation, customers can now get it as a $595 option.
Previously the only models that got the MultiPro Tailgate as standard were the three highest trims; the SLT, AT4, and Denali. However, it was optional for the Elevation in the Crew-Cab configuration but not available on the SLE or base-model at all.
The MultiPro Tailgate was a hit with GMC customers
The only explanation for this increased availability must be that GMC Sierra owners clearly wanted it. When it debuted on the 2019 Sierra, GMC described it as “the segment’s most innovative tailgate ever.” A pretty strong claim, but seeing as the tailgate game almost only consisted of a metal slab with a handle and two hinges, that isn’t the most difficult accomplishment.
This new tailgate featured six different configurable options, and of those six, only two had been seen before. The MultiPro lived up to its name by offering a standing workstation, a step entry, and egress mode that, with the assist handle, offers both step and seated functionality, enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, and easier access to items in the box.
In an interview with GM Authority, Roger Olle of GM engineering says that the design came from a “Shark-Tank-style idea pool…” Olle goes on to say, “We were tasked by our chief engineers to come up with an innovative way to address a customer need. Based on the clinics that we ran, we knew that the customer wanted help getting in and out of the vehicle more easily.”
The MultiPro tailgate for the Sierra is the same design as its cousin, the 2021 Chevy Silverado
Unlike the tailgates of yore, the MultiPro will be electrified and programmed based on buttons. No more pulling the handle and letting that thing slam down. Like the Chevy Silverado, the GMC Sierra will have a touchpad that allows you to select which configuration you want. This same system will be used on the Hummer EVs tailgate.
Although this new tailgate being standard equipment will likely drive some sales and please the customer base, it isn’t coming for free. I’m sorry to say, the new standard equipment is coming with a bit of a price bump, according to Motor1. The prices will vary depending on trim level, but even the base-model is increasing.
These innovations are undoubtedly useful and practical, but these things make the average price of pickups jump to numbers that are hard for many people to afford. Trucks sure have changed.
