It has been observed by many consumers and industry critics that the extensive fleet of GMC vehicles has become the new Cadillacs. That doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re equipped with ginormous tail fins. But they have evolved far beyond just being “professional grade” vehicles meant to enhance work on the job site to an elite class that is only available to those who have a large disposable income. It seems that ever since the brand introduced its Denali trim line all those years ago, GMC feels like a class of vehicles that are conveniently out of reach to the average consumer – that is, until now.
In the past, the only way to get a GMC in your driveway was to go searching for used GMC trucks that may or may not be in less than admirable shape. However, a recently announced plan shows that GM iust once again defying the common expectations from the industry and consumers alike with a new initiative that will make GMC vehicles more accessible than ever before. You may not be able to afford a Sierra or Yukon Denali, but the same can’t be said about GMC’s brand-new trim line, which they’re referring to as “De-Ghetto.” These trucks are geared towards individuals who are in a lower income bracket than the typical GMC owner.
“GM has always had its finger on the pulse of consumer needs,” GM CEO Mary Barra said at a press conference announcing the De-Ghetto trim. We understand that those who come from low-income backgrounds have always pined for the performance and luxury of Cadillac and the GMC Denali trim. While we can’t lower the price of either of these, we want to make a version that’s accessible to those who live in an urban environment.”
Because the vehicle is geared toward those who live in low-income areas, GMC plans on providing a police scanner instead of an infotainment screen, preprogrammed with all of your local frequencies. GMC has also found a way to cut powertrain costs while still making the trim readily available to the masses. Rather than using its modern EcoTec or Duramax engines, GMC plans to return to classic GM designs such as the 2.5L I-4 Iron Duke. While its 85 horsepower isn’t quite up to par with the Sierra’s other available engines, it’s plenty of power for crawling or sitting still in city traffic.
Another way GMC will keep the price down is by recycling body panels from older models sourced from junkyards. Not only is this method more environmentally friendly than creating new body panels, it also eliminates that fear of scratching or denting your brand new truck in the inner city. On the contrary, it immediately blends into its environment, making the truck look less desirable to break into or steal than the shiny new Denali parked next to it. This doubles as an anti-theft device.
When asked whether or not this is a practical choice for those who expect quality from GMC, Linus Rothchild, a GM mechanic, explained the decision. “Look, if you want to drive a GMC, you need money to afford the quality that we provide. This is meant to give people a chance to own one.” Rothschild also explained that the De-Ghetto trim will not have climate control, and that drivers will be expected to just “crack a window.” Other features that are synonymous with other GM vehicles will have less expensive alternatives. Instead of adaptive cruise control, drivers will be given a crowbar to wedge between the steering wheel and gas pedal during long road trips. It’s also been reported that towing options will be limited, and that drivers should just use a bungee cord rather than a hitch when transporting their cargo to various destinations.
GM says this new series of vehicles should arrive sometime during the 2025 model year. They’ve also announced that they’ll be initiating a financing program where people can use food stamps to help pay for a portion of the vehicle.
