Used GMC Sierra 1500 Buying Guide

Used GMC Sierra 1500 Buying Guide

The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup truck made by General Motors that is mechanically identical to the Chevrolet Silverado; and has remained the same throughout their shared history. It has had a base V6 engine or an optional V8 through the years, with new models offering a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

1999-2006 (1st Generation)

The Sierra 1500 was considered as the light-duty version of the Sierra, and was built on the GM GMT800 platform. It was available in three different cab lengths, including the two-door regular cab, the four-door extended cab and the front-hinged four-door crew cab, with cargo beds ranging from 69.2-inch short box, the 78.7-inch standard box and the 97.6-inch-long box.

The first year of this generation, only the regular cab and extended cab were offered, and engine options were the Vortec 4.3-liter V6, the 4.8-liter V8 and the 5.3-liter V8; and it was available in RWD or 4WD. Seating is available from three to six passengers.

In 2004, Sierra offered three cab styles, with the crew cab becoming available. It featured half-ton, three-quarter-ton and one-tone capacities; as well as 2WD or 4WD. An optional Quadra steer four-wheel steering was available.

The 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 has a long list of configuration choices and comes with a manual or automatic transmission.

2007-2013 (2nd Generation)

In the generation, the Sierra 1500 was built on the GMT900 platform, and the exterior, interior, frame and suspension were all redesigned.

2007 featured a new stability system, adjustable pedals, and a 10,500-lbs maximum towing capability. A 400-hp, 6.2-liter V8 became available on the Denali trim.

In 2008, a new All-Terrain trim became available and you had the choice of two interior designs. In 2009, a 6.2-liter V8 was available on the SLT crew cab. Onstar features Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Bluetooth, and a rearview camera was offered on some models. It featured new 18- and 20-inch wheel designs, and V8 models get six-speed automatic transmission.

This half-ton 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck ranges between a modestly-equipped Work Truck trim to a luxury-centered Denali.

Another refresh happened in 2012 and this included a redesign of the touch-screen navigation system.

2014-2018 (3rd Generation)

In this generation, Sierra used aluminum in its construction, including on the hood, the engine block and suspension control arms to reduce weight and use less fuel. Boasting best in class trailering, the Sierra has been significantly updated with three new engines, while still being a true workhorse.

For 2015, Magnetic Ride Control for Sierra Denali models is available and a new eight-speed automatic transmission is also available; as well as all-wheel-drive. OnStar with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot capability is available.

The Sierra got a refresh in 2016 for this generation. A new grille, headlights, front fascia and an available locking tailgate; as well as HD Radio and mobile connectivity for iOS and Android

2019 – Present (4th Generation)

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size truck that offers excellent payload and tow ratings, a powerful engine lineup, and intuitive technology features. Options include a two-piece tailgate, a carbon fiber pickup bed, open-pore wood grain trim on the interior, and an eight-inch color touchscreen infotainment system. Several trims include the base SLE, the rugged Elevation, the SLT, and the top-of-the line Denali.

It comes with a base 4.3-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. A 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is new to the lineup. It makes 310 horsepower, and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Two optional V8 engines are available: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 hp and a six-speed or optional eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 420-hp, 6.2-liter V8 that is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission.

Featuring new exterior colors, the 2020 Sierra 1500 boasts of a strong performance and a wide range of powertrains.

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is fully customizable with five engine options, three transmission options, endless features, and various trims to choose. For 2021, the GMC Sierra 1500 is available as a crew cab, a regular cab, and an extended cab. Pricing starts at $30,000, and it gets an estimated 17/24 mpg city/highway.