The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, produced from 2014 to 2015, represented a significant step forward for GMC’s full-size pickup truck line. This fourth generation (GMTK2XX platform) offered a blend of capability, technology, and refinement aimed at a broad spectrum of truck buyers. Within the Sierra 1500 lineup, the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission occupied a sweet spot, providing a balance between work-ready functionality and everyday usability. This variant was positioned as a strong contender for buyers needing a capable truck without the added cost and complexity of higher trim levels or the larger 6.2-liter engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V6 (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 | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| 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 kg/Hp, 167.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.9 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 | 2119 kg (4671.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 965 kg (2127.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2162 l (76.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 128 l (33.81 US gal | 28.16 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4626 kg (10198.58 lbs.) |
| Length | 5701 mm (224.45 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1867 mm (73.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm (132.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 212 mm (8.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.4 m (43.96 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.7° |
| Departure angle | 23.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.1° |
| 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 heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy. The L83 utilizes a robust cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, enhancing both power and efficiency. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while a more traditional design, proved reliable and contributed to the engine’s low-end torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque curve, providing adequate acceleration and towing capacity. The FlexFuel capability allowed the engine to run on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85), offering some flexibility at the pump.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L/automatic combination delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L models, the 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque provided sufficient power for everyday driving and moderate towing. The six-speed automatic transmission offered smooth shifts, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, rather than outright performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in city driving. The E85 capability provided a slight power boost, but at the expense of fuel economy. Overall, this configuration prioritized usability and dependability over sporty driving dynamics.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 5.3L Sierra 1500 typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and steel wheels. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE and SLT, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, a rearview camera, and more comfortable seating. Optional extras included a trailer brake controller, a navigation system, and various appearance packages. The interior was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. Upholstery was typically cloth, with leather available on higher trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilized a fully boxed frame for increased rigidity and strength. The front suspension featured 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 were ventilated discs at all four corners, with ABS standard. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Sierra 1500 IV for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and capable powertrain options. The 5.3L/automatic combination was viewed as a solid all-around performer, offering a good balance of power, fuel economy, and affordability. Compared to the 4.3L V6, the 5.3L offered significantly more power and towing capacity. Compared to the 6.2L V8, it was less expensive and offered slightly better fuel economy, although at the cost of performance. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the Active Fuel Management system.
Legacy
The GMTK2XX Sierra 1500, particularly the 5.3L variants, have proven to be durable and reliable trucks. On the used car market, these trucks remain popular due to their affordability and capability. The L83 EcoTec3 engine, while not without its quirks, has generally proven to be a long-lasting powerplant. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of these trucks. The 5.3L/automatic combination continues to be a viable option for buyers seeking a capable and dependable full-size pickup truck.
