Both trucks get a new twin-port grille and full-width bumper, along with a more sculpted overall look. The GMC Sierra is slightly taller than the Chevy Silverado, has projector-beam headlights, chrome accents and moldings on the wheel wells.

Integrated into the rear bumper is a corner step for easier access to the bed, a feature first used on the soon-to-depart Chevrolet Avalanche, along with handholds. The bed can also be equipped with new upper tie-down hooks, under-rail LED lighting and an easy-lift-and-lower tailgate.

The new interiors were desgined to keep the rugged truck style while offering more refinement. (Photo: Chevrolet)

To boost fuel economy, engineers focused on weight reduction and improved aerodynamics. Redesigned door mirrors, triple-sealed doors inlaid into the body, roof and tailgate design features smooth the flow of air over the trucks.

To cut weight and boost rigidity, two-thirds of the truck cab and the frame's main rails and key cross members are made from high-strength steel.

Another fuel-saving move is the switch to electric variable-assist power steering, which GM says improves overall vehicle handling and reduces steering effort at low speeds.

Interior highlights include an upright instrument panel, six-gauge instrument cluster with an optional center-mounted 4.2-inch information center that shows vehicle status information, and multiple storage options. Knobs are coated using a rubber over-mold technology so they're easy to grip, even while wearing gloves. Premium materials are added to the GMC Sierra's cabin, including more soft-touch materials and an optional aluminum trim.

Getting in and out of the pickups is easier. The rear doors on crew cabs are larger, and the rear doors on extended-cab models are now hinged at the front so they can be opened independently of the front doors. The B-pillar of crew cab models was moved forward, and the rear seat redesigned to add about two inches to rear legroom.

The pickup box on regular cab models is available in three lengths: 5 feet, 8 inches; 6 feet, 6 inches; and 8 feet. Crew cab models add the 6-foot-6-inch box as a new option, in addition to the 5-foot-8-inch box. The extended-cab truck can be configured with the 5-foot-8-inch or 6-foot-6-inch.

The doors have storage for beverages, and along the center stack and center console are additional cupholders, discreet compartments large enough for laptop computers and connectivity options. The Sierra is available with a 110-volt outlet, up to five USB ports, four 12-volt outlets and an SD card slot.

Available safety features include collision alert, lane departure warning with an active safety seat and park assistance. StabiliTrak with trailer sway control and hill start assist is standard.

Production of the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra is set to start next spring.
This story originally appeared at Autoweek.com.