The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, specifically the Double Cab configuration with the 6.2 EcoTec3 V8 engine and four-wheel drive automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2016 to 2018 as part of the GMTK2XX platform’s facelift, this variant aimed to balance robust capability with a degree of refinement for the North American truck market. It sat towards the higher end of the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a substantial power upgrade over the base engines and appealing to buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX, facelift 2016) Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 EcoTec3 V8 (420 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 171.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 253.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 623 Nm @ 4100 rpm (459.5 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L86 |
| Engine displacement | 6162 cm3 (376.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| 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 | 2455 kg (5412.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 811 kg (1787.95 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%) | 4173 kg (9199.89 lbs.) |
| Length | 5828 mm (229.45 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1877 mm (73.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 231 mm (9.09 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.9° |
| Departure angle | 23.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.1° |
| 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 | 8 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 | 245/70R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 6.2-liter L86 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injection powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy during light-load driving. The L86 utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while a more traditional design, proved reliable and cost-effective. The 6.2L engine produces 420 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 459.5 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. This power is delivered through an eight-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, a crucial component in managing the engine’s output and providing a comfortable driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, offering a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.2L V8 and eight-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeably more powerful driving experience compared to the Sierra 1500’s smaller engine options. Acceleration is brisk, and the truck feels confident when merging onto highways or passing other vehicles. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, minimizing the need for frequent downshifts. While not as fuel-efficient as the smaller engines, the 6.2L offers a substantial increase in towing and hauling capability. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Sierra, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and convenience, appealing to a broader range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab configuration offered a spacious interior with seating for five passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various driver-assistance features. The specific equipment level varied depending on the chosen trim package.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration is designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The braking system is adequately sized for the truck’s weight and power, providing confident stopping performance. The Double Cab configuration’s longer wheelbase contributes to improved stability, especially when towing.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.2L V8-equipped Sierra 1500 Double Cab was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, as expected with a large-displacement V8. Compared to the 5.3L V8 and the 2.7L Turbo options, the 6.2L offered significantly more power and towing capacity, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The Ford F-150 with its EcoBoost engines was a primary competitor, offering comparable power and potentially better fuel economy in some configurations. The Ram 1500 also presented a strong challenge, known for its comfortable ride and refined interior.
Legacy
The L86 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with few widespread issues reported. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and spark plug replacements, is crucial for ensuring its longevity. The eight-speed Hydra-Matic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. In the used car market, the 2016-2018 Sierra 1500 Double Cab with the 6.2L V8 holds its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and well-equipped full-size pickup truck. Its combination of power, space, and features continues to make it a desirable option for those needing a versatile and dependable vehicle.
