Two of General Motors’ most well-liked full-size pickup trucks and SUV platforms are the GMT800 and GMT900. These platforms are still well-liked by fans today and have been utilized to create some of the most recognizable American trucks and SUVs.
Which platform, however, is superior? To assist you in choosing which platform best suits your requirements, we’ll compare the GMT800 and GMT900 platforms in this post and take a deeper look at their strengths and disadvantages.
The GMT900 platform is often regarded as the better option for overall performance and features. Compared to the GMT800 platform, it provides superior handling, increased fuel economy, and more sophisticated safety systems. The GMT800 platform, however, was more durable and dependable.
GMT 800
In the late 1990s, General Motors made a great deal out of the GMT800 platform. Pickups, SUVs, and even Hummer models could all be built on it since it was intended to be a versatile and adaptable platform.
The GMT800 platform’s adaptability was one of its primary characteristics. It may support a variety of powertrains, such as V6 and V8 engines and diesel choices. As a result, GM provided a broad range of vehicle configurations to satisfy the requirements of various consumers.
The longevity of the GMT800 platform was another advantage. With durable frames and suspensions that could withstand big loads and difficult terrain, these cars were made to endure. Also, they were designed to be simple to maintain and fix, having readily accessible parts that could be changed as necessary.
The GMT800 cars were subsequently superseded by the GMT900 platform in 2007, despite their numerous advantages.
GMT 900
From 2007 through 2014, General Motors developed a line of full-size pickup trucks and SUVs known as the GMT900. The GMT900 platform, which replaced the GMT800 platform, was used to construct these vehicles.
The GMT900 platform represented a substantial improvement over the earlier platform. Compared to the GMT800 cars, it had better handling, increased fuel economy, and more modern amenities. The Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra pickup trucks & the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs are some of the most well-known automobiles constructed on the GMT900 platform.
The GMT900 platform’s utilization of cutting-edge technology to increase fuel economy was one of its distinguishing characteristics. These cars used active fuel management systems and engines with variable valve timing, which enabled them to operate with less gasoline while maintaining high performance. Also, their aerodynamics were optimized, which further increased their fuel efficiency.
The GMT900 cars were renowned for their cutting-edge safety features and enhanced fuel economy. They had equipment like stability control, side curtain airbags, and rearview cameras, making them among the safest cars on the road.
Building and Reliability
With a solid frame and sturdy suspension that could handle high loads and difficult terrain, the GMT800 platform was designed to be tough and resilient. The platform’s sturdy design and dependability were well-regarded by drivers, and it was often utilized for demanding tasks like hauling and towing.
The GMT900 platform, in contrast, was intended to provide better handling and increased fuel economy; nonetheless, several drivers considered it less robust than the GMT800. High-strength steel was utilized for the GMT900’s frame, which was stronger and lighter than the GMT800’s frame. Several drivers said the GMT900 seemed less solid than the GMT800, particularly when towing large loads.
Interior Excellence
The interior quality of the GMT800 and GMT900 platforms should also be considered. The interiors of the GMT800 cars were renowned for being simple, functional, and made to be tough and simple to clean. Although some drivers praised its simplicity, others said it lacked conveniences and comfort.
Although the GMT900 platform had more opulent interiors and cutting-edge technologies than the GMT800, several owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of the interior components. Several drivers have complained that the inside plastics of the GMT900 seem flimsy and brittle, which causes wear-and-tear issues over time.
Styling
Many drivers like the timeless, uncomplicated design of the GMT800 cars. They featured a utilitarian, boxy appearance that highlighted their toughness and sturdiness. Conversely, the GMT900 platform provided more contemporary stylistic elements, including sharper lines and aerodynamic profiles. Some drivers liked the GMT900’s more modern looking, while others enjoyed the GMT800’s more traditional appearance.
Features
The GMT800 platform provided several features that pickup trucks and SUV owners liked. The platform included a three-section frame structure, giving it more versatility in how the wheelbase, GVWR, and body style could be set up.
There are around 40 alternative vehicle combinations possible with this system, which consists of four front modules, seven middle portions, and four back pieces. Although the GMT820/830 SUV models utilized a five-link coil-spring suspension, the GMT800 pickup vehicles used a rear-leaf spring suspension.
Even more cutting-edge technologies were added to the GMT900 platform, including standard vehicle stability control and other safety features like frontal collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The platform also included more sophisticated technological amenities like temperature control, touch-screen infotainment systems, and high-end audio systems.
Powertrain Alternatives
The GMT800 chassis provided a range of engine and gearbox choices to accommodate various requirements and tastes. V6 & V8 engines, as well as diesel alternatives for heavier-duty versions, are available to drivers. Moreover, various gearboxes, including automatic and manual choices, were offered for the platform. This allowed drivers to choose the best mixture that fit their requirements and driving style.
The GMT900 platform kept providing a variety of engine choices, with an emphasis on enhancing performance and fuel economy. The chassis offered a variety of automated gearboxes and V8 engine configurations. Advanced features like variable valve timing and active fuel management also increased fuel economy while maintaining high performance.
Models and Body Types
To accommodate various driving requirements, the GMT800 platform offers a range of body designs and models, including pickup trucks and SUVs like the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, and Yukon. Drivers had a selection of SUVs, two-door and four-door pickup trucks, extended wagons, four-door wagons, and extended wagons. The pickup trucks and SUVs came in various seating and bed arrangements to accommodate various driving requirements.
Similarly, the GMT900 platform kept providing a variety of body types and models with modernized features. The options for drivers included:
- Two-door and four-door pickup trucks.
- Two-door and extended SUVs.
- Various seating and bed arrangements.
Together with these new features, the platform also had a rear-seat entertainment system and power-retractable running boards.
The platform was a popular option for drivers who valued comfort and style since the designs were more aerodynamic & the ride quality was enhanced. Popular automobiles, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, Avalanche, and Silverado, & the GMC Yukon, Sierra, and Cadillac Escalade, were among the GMT900 models.
Conclusion
Many drivers still value the toughness and dependability of the GMT800, despite the GMT900 platform’s widely accepted performance and feature improvements over the GMT800. However, some drivers may like the GMT800’s traditional look or discover that it better suits their requirements. The decision between the GMT800 and GMT900 will ultimately come down to several variables, such as personal taste, intended application, and price.