The GMC Sierra 1500 III, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine producing 315 horsepower, was a prominent full-size pickup truck manufactured from 2007 to 2010. This generation, designated GMT900, represented a significant redesign for GMC’s light-duty trucks, focusing on improved refinement, capability, and interior space. The 5.3L V8/4WD Automatic combination occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a balance between power, fuel efficiency, and affordability, appealing to a broad range of truck buyers. It was positioned as a step up from the base 4.8L V8 models, while remaining more accessible than the range-topping 6.2L V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 III (GMT900) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 Vortec V8 (315 Hp) 4WD Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Power | 315 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 458 Nm @ 4400 rpm (337.8 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LC9 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.01 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.95 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14.1 l (14.9 US qt | 12.41 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1506 l (53.18 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4309 kg (9499.72 lbs.) |
| Length | 5844 mm (230.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2031 mm (79.96 in.) |
| Height | 1872 mm (73.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 229 mm (9.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.4 m (47.24 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.3° |
| Departure angle | 22.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 295×60 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 5.3-liter (325 cubic inch) LC9 Vortec V8 engine. This engine is a member of the Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The LC9 features a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It utilizes a 9.9:1 compression ratio and a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering a balance of power and efficiency. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while not as technologically advanced as overhead cam designs, is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. The engine is capable of running on gasoline or E85 flex-fuel, offering some flexibility at the pump. Paired with the LC9 is the 4L80-E four-speed automatic transmission, a heavy-duty Hydra-Matic unit renowned for its strength and dependability. This transmission was a workhorse in GM trucks and SUVs for many years.
Driving Characteristics
The 315 horsepower and 337.8 lb-ft of torque provided by the 5.3L V8 and 4L80-E combination delivered adequate performance for most everyday tasks. While not as quick as the 6.2L models, the 5.3L offered sufficient power for towing, hauling, and merging onto highways. The four-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, had relatively wide gear ratios compared to more modern transmissions. This meant that the engine could feel somewhat strained at higher speeds, and fuel economy suffered on the highway. The 4L80-E prioritized durability over maximizing efficiency. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic provided a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic, but at the expense of some responsiveness and fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L 4WD Sierra 1500 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. The Crew Cab configuration offered spacious seating for up to six passengers, making it a popular choice for families. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a power sunroof. Trim levels varied, with SLE and SLT being the most common. The SLT trim added more luxurious features, such as heated seats, automatic climate control, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The GMT900 Sierra 1500 featured a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension utilized an independent coil spring design, providing a comfortable ride. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes up front and drum brakes in the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard equipment. The 4WD system was typically a part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8/4WD Automatic Sierra 1500 was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong towing capacity. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck of its time. Compared to the 4.8L V8 models, the 5.3L offered a noticeable improvement in performance. Compared to the 6.2L V8, it was more affordable and offered slightly better fuel economy, although at the cost of some power. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the active fuel management system (AFM), which deactivated cylinders to improve fuel economy.
Legacy
The GMT900 Sierra 1500, and particularly the 5.3L V8/4WD Automatic variant, remains a popular choice in the used truck market. The LC9 engine is known for its longevity, and the 4L80-E transmission is incredibly durable. While older models may require some maintenance, these trucks are generally considered to be reliable and capable. The combination of space, power, and affordability makes them a practical choice for those seeking a full-size pickup truck for work or family use. The 5.3L Vortec V8 continues to be a respected engine among truck enthusiasts, and parts availability remains good.
