The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, produced from 2014 to 2015, marked a substantial advancement in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineup. This fourth generation, built on the GMTK2XX platform, brought significant improvements to interior refinement, technology, and powertrain options. The Crew Cab Short Box configuration, equipped with the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, proved to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. This specific variant occupied a mid-range position within the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering more power and features than the base models while remaining more accessible than the top-tier Denali trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2013 year |
| End of production | 2015 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 226.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 380 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 564 Nm @ 4100 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2287 kg (5041.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 888 kg (1957.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1512 l (53.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4445 kg (9799.55 lbs.) |
| Length | 5829 mm (229.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1884 mm (74.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 222 mm (8.74 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.4 m (47.24 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.8° |
| Departure angle | 23.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | Ventilated discs, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The core of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine represented a significant advancement in GM’s engine technology, incorporating direct injection, active fuel management (cylinder deactivation), and variable valve timing. The direct injection system enabled more precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. Active Fuel Management allowed the engine to deactivate four cylinders during light-load driving, further improving fuel economy. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, delivering smooth and responsive shifts. Designed for durability and reliability, the transmission’s six forward gears helped maintain the engine within its optimal power band. FlexFuel capability allowed the engine to operate on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85), providing drivers with fuel choice.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 paired with the six-speed automatic provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2-liter V8 option, the 5.3L delivered sufficient power for everyday driving and towing needs. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy. The truck felt stable and planted on the road, even when carrying a load. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in urban environments. The E85 capability provided a modest increase in horsepower and torque, but at the cost of reduced fuel economy. Overall, this powertrain configuration was well-suited for buyers who valued comfort, convenience, and a reasonable level of performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a tilt steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a navigation system, and a premium audio system. Optional extras included a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and well-organized, offering comfortable seating and ample storage space. The Crew Cab configuration provided generous rear-seat legroom, making it a practical choice for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV featured a fully boxed frame, contributing to its strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination provided a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, with ABS as standard equipment. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion design with electric power steering, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Sierra 1500 IV was generally well-received by both critics and consumers. The 5.3-liter V8 with the six-speed automatic was praised for its smooth operation and respectable fuel economy. Compared to the larger 6.2-liter V8, the 5.3L offered a more affordable price point and slightly improved fuel efficiency, though it lacked the same level of outright performance. In comparison to the diesel options, the 5.3L provided a simpler and less expensive ownership experience, but didn’t deliver the same level of torque or fuel economy. The Sierra 1500 consistently achieved high rankings in reliability surveys, making it a popular choice in the used car market.
Legacy
The GMTK2XX Sierra 1500, particularly the 5.3L V8/automatic combination, has proven to be a durable and reliable truck. The EcoTec3 engine, while experiencing minor issues like potential oil consumption in some cases, has generally held up well over time. These trucks remain relatively common in the used car market, and well-maintained examples can provide many years of service. The combination of capability, comfort, and affordability has made this Sierra 1500 a popular choice for both personal and commercial use, solidifying its position as a significant vehicle in GMC’s history.
