The 2008 GMC Sierra 1500 4X4 Crew Cab is a great tool for all those springtime hauling chores.

The front end looks better than that of its sister, the Chevy Silverado. The $2,200 All-Terrain option package includes 18-inch chrome wheels and body color trim. Underneath, you get Rancho shocks and heavy duty towing components.

Here's an example of clever engineering: not only does a plastic cap protect the top of the tailgate when a long load is sticking out, it also serves as a spoiler to help air pass over the truck and give you better mileage.

The 5.3 liter V8 also gets a miles-per-gallon boost from Active Fuel Management that shuts down some of the cylinders during highway cruising. Fuel economy during a week-long test averaged 19 miles to the gallon.

GM's truck interiors are the best in the business and the two-tone leather in the Sierra is especially nice. The climate controls and optional navigation system are easy to use.

There's lots of comfort and legroom in the back seat too. Folding second row seats is a snap.

With a comfortable controlled ride and handling, the Sierra could be a daily driver with no problem.

All this luxury, towing and hauling power comes at a price. The as-tested sticker price on our Sierra 1500 4X4 Crew Cab is $44,755.

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