GMC announced a new EcoTec3 engine option for the 2014 Sierra pick up truck which makes it the torquiest car in this segment. This 4.3 liter V6 unit generates 305 lb-ft (413 Nm), which means the four-wheel-drive version can tow a trailer up to 7,200 pounds (3,266 kg). It also makes 285 horsepower (212 kW). Other members of the EcoTec3 family you can choose include a 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines.

Features of the new V6 that makes it so well-endowed, torque-wise, include direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation) and continuously variable valve timing – hence the EcoTec3 name. Mated to a six-speed efficient six-speed automatic transmission, this engine is expected to be very light on fuel as well. EPA estimates will be released later.

2014 Sierra models with the 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6 go on sale later this year with a suggested starting price of $25,085, including a destination charge of $995 but excluding tax, title, license and dealer fees.

“The family of V-6 engines introduced in 1960 was designed to last, and I’ve heard of some owners going more than 450,000 miles on the original engine,” said Donald Meyer, GMC truck historian. “They had really high torque and pulled loads well. GMC engineers know how to build durable, reliable engines that never quit.”