When Will GMC’s Biggest Trucks and SUVs Get a Makeover?
If you’re eyeing a new GMC Sierra or Yukon, you might be wondering when the next big changes are coming. Here’s the scoop: the GMC Sierra is on track for a full redesign in 2027, while the Yukon and Yukon XL will follow suit in 2029. These aren’t just minor facelifts, either. Both models are expected to introduce plug-in hybrid powertrains for the first time, signaling a major shift in how GMC approaches electrification.
Why Plug-In Hybrids Are a Game-Changer for GMC
Let’s face it—full-size trucks and SUVs aren’t going anywhere. Americans love them, and GMC’s sales numbers prove it. But with the electric vehicle (EV) market cooling off and federal incentives in flux, GMC isn’t putting all its eggs in the EV basket. Instead, the brand is betting big on plug-in hybrids. This move offers a sweet spot: you get some of the fuel-saving, low-emission benefits of an EV, but without the range anxiety or charging headaches.
GM CEO Mary Barra confirmed that plug-in hybrid models will join the lineup in 2027. For buyers, that means more options—especially if you’re not quite ready to go fully electric. The timing is no accident. As the Sierra gets its mid-cycle refresh and the Yukon prepares for its next generation, plug-in powertrains will likely be the headline feature.
What’s Changing Across the Rest of the GMC Lineup?
The Sierra and Yukon aren’t the only ones getting attention. GMC is planning mid-lifecycle updates for several models:
– The Hummer EV, which launched in late 2021, is due for a refresh around 2028.
– The Acadia, which got a major overhaul in 2023, could see updates by 2027 or 2028.
– The Canyon midsize pickup is expected to get a facelift in 2029.
– The Terrain, still relatively new, probably won’t see changes until 2028 or later.
And then there’s the Savana van—an old-school workhorse that’s been around since 1996. Despite its age, it’s sticking around at least through 2026, and there’s talk of expanding production. Sometimes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
How Are GMC’s Sales Trending in 2025?
Here’s where things get interesting. GMC posted its best-ever first-half sales in 2025, moving 315,906 vehicles—a jump of 11 percent over the previous year. The Sierra remains the brand’s bread and butter, accounting for over half of those sales. The Yukon isn’t far behind, up 22 percent with nearly 50,000 units sold.
But not everything is rosy. The Terrain compact SUV saw a 34 percent drop, and while the Hummer EV’s sales soared 74 percent, it’s still a niche player with fewer than 8,000 units sold. The newly launched Sierra EV is even further behind, with just under 3,000 units. Clearly, GMC’s big trucks and SUVs are still driving the bus.
Why GMC’s Upscale Strategy Works
Sam Fiorani, an industry analyst at AutoForecast Solutions, points out that GMC has carved out a unique space in the market. Their trucks and SUVs are positioned a notch above mainstream brands like Ford and Chevrolet, appealing to buyers who want a little more luxury without going full Cadillac. It’s a smart move—one that’s paying off in the sales charts.
What Does This Mean for Buyers and the Industry?
The auto industry is in a weird spot right now. EV hype has cooled, hybrids are hot again, and buyers want choices that fit their real-world needs. GMC’s strategy—offering plug-in hybrids alongside traditional gas and pure electric models—gives customers flexibility without forcing them into a single technology.
If you’re shopping for a new truck or SUV, keep an eye on 2027 and 2029. Those are the years when GMC’s biggest models will get their most significant upgrades, both under the hood and in the cabin. Expect better fuel economy, more tech, and a driving experience that blends the best of both worlds.
The big takeaway? GMC’s future isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.