The high-line Sierra SLT cabin feels just like a large luxury car, with a low-profile dash sporting lots of woodgrain trim, a compact instrument cluster with better graphics for 2008, three months of XM radio to get you hooked, and a center stack that rolls off the dash and right into a full-length center console.

The Sierra HD SLT is very low-profile, sleek, and speaks of good fit and finish. All other models use a more conventional pickup layout, with a higher dash section that goes across the middle and leaves the center open for middle riders, manual-shift transfer case, or communications and safety equipment.

Perhaps not as stylish as the SLT's, the standard dash is the more functional of the two and equally well assembled (and gets the same improvements). It offers more options in small storage, a second glove box (with an awkward latch), locking storage area with power point beneath the center seat section, more places to add accessory switches, radio and ventilation controls are up higher near line of sight, and the materials produce less glare in low-lying sun and night construction areas. Adjustable pedals and a tilt wheel are available, though the wheel does not telescope and is offset slightly from the seat centerline.

A regular cab has room for a XXL-sized gent and space behind the seat for his coat and boots. Extended cabs have articulated side doors that swing 170 degrees for easier loading, the windows in those doors roll down flush, and the seat cushion folds up for more storage. Crew cabs are the obvious choice for anyone hauling more than youngsters on a regular basis, just be sure the middle rider knows there is no headrest. Note that the sunroof shade on high-line versions is literally a shade (like that on a Mini) and not a solid cover, and the interior will warm faster on sunny days.

Operating controls are clearly labeled and logically placed, and the shifter offers the typical D and 1 positions, with an M position and thumb tab for individually selecting any intermediate gear. If there's a drawback it is the quantity of similarly-shaped and labeled small buttons that butterfingers may have some issues with. Door switches have been revised so your guard dog won't wind the window up, but he may still lock you out; fortunately, OnStar (and the turn-by-turn navigation it offers) is standard and includes a few months free service.

The fact that the Sierra interior, especially on SLT models, is the most like a car will certainly find favor with those who need a pickup rather than just want one. Apart from turning circle and size, it takes no more to drive this than to drive any other GMC.