The GMC Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab with the Standard Box, powered by the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 380 horsepower on E85 fuel, and paired with a 4WD automatic transmission, was a popular configuration within the fourth generation of the Sierra 1500 pickup truck. Produced from 2013 to 2015, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and fuel efficiency for buyers needing a full-size truck. It represented a significant step forward in technology and refinement for GMC’s full-size offering, competing directly with the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Ram 1500.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) 4WD Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.3 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 | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 866 kg (1909.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1728 l (61.02 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 | 6071 mm (239.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm (152.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 227 mm (8.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.8 m (48.56 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.1° |
| Departure angle | 23° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| 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 | 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
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injection powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy. The L83 utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability and relatively lightweight construction. The direct injection system, combined with variable valve timing, optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 382.79 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm when running on gasoline. When fueled with E85 ethanol, output increases to 380 horsepower and 564 Nm of torque. The engine’s OHV valvetrain, while traditional, proved reliable and cost-effective. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this configuration. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, and its gear ratios were tuned to provide a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the 6-speed automatic delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, it provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was typically in the 7.0-7.5 second range. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly, and the Active Fuel Management system was generally seamless in its operation, though some drivers noted a slight vibration when transitioning between V8 and V4 modes. Compared to the available 6.2L V8, this variant offered less outright power, but it was significantly more fuel-efficient. Against the 4.3L V6, it provided a noticeable increase in towing capacity and overall performance. The 4WD system provided confident traction in various weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.3L V8 with automatic transmission was available on several trim levels, including SLE, SLT, and LTZ. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a rearview camera, and a basic infotainment system. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The Crew Cab configuration offered spacious seating for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families.
Chassis & Braking
The GMTK2XX platform 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 configuration provided a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors on the front axle. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The rear brakes were slightly smaller than the front, reflecting the weight distribution of the truck.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L Sierra 1500 was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered competitive for a full-size truck, particularly with the Active Fuel Management system. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered a better balance of price and fuel efficiency, making it a more popular choice for buyers who didn’t require maximum towing capacity. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the Active Fuel Management system.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 proved to be a durable and reliable engine. Today, used examples of the 2013-2015 Sierra 1500 with this powertrain remain relatively common and are often sought after for their affordability and capability. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of these trucks. While newer trucks offer more advanced technology and features, the GMTK2XX Sierra 1500 continues to represent a solid value in the used truck market, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and dependability.
