The GMC Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology. It was positioned as a mainstream offering, appealing to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the premium price tag of the Denali or AT4 trims. This generation marked a move towards more refined interiors and advanced features, solidifying the Sierra’s position as a strong competitor in the highly contested full-size truck market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD 10 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| 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 | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L84 |
| 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, VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.1 l (13.84 US qt | 11.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2286 kg (5039.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1025 kg (2259.74 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4944 kg (10899.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 5886 mm (231.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1918 mm (75.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Sierra 1500 V was the 5.3-liter L84 V8 engine. This engine, a member of GM’s Small Block family, utilized direct injection and variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize both power and fuel efficiency. The L84 produced 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine featured an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice that prioritized simplicity and reliability. Paired with the engine was the 10L80 ten-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, a significant upgrade from the previous eight-speed, offered closer gear ratios, improving both acceleration and fuel economy. The 10L80’s sophisticated control system allowed for smooth and precise shifting, enhancing the overall driving experience. Cylinder deactivation was also included, allowing the engine to operate on four cylinders during light load conditions to further improve fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic combination delivered a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. The 10-speed transmission kept the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive acceleration. The gear ratios were well-suited for both highway cruising and hauling heavy loads. Compared to earlier Sierra models with older transmissions, the 10-speed offered noticeably smoother shifts and improved fuel economy. The four-wheel-drive system provided confident traction in various weather conditions. However, the Sierra 1500’s size and weight were still apparent, making it less nimble than smaller pickups.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L engine was available in a variety of trim levels, including SLE, Elevation, and LT. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a sunroof, a navigation system, and a trailering package. The interior design was generally functional and well-built, with a focus on durability and practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 V utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration offered a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The braking system was generally effective, providing adequate stopping power even when towing. Steering was rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, offering a comfortable and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L engine was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, but the 10-speed transmission helped to improve efficiency compared to previous generations. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra 1500 offered a slightly more refined driving experience and a more upscale interior. However, some critics noted that the Sierra’s styling was less distinctive than its competitors. The 5.3L engine offered a good balance of power and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the 6.2L V8.
Legacy
The GMTT1XX generation Sierra 1500, particularly the 5.3L V8/10-speed automatic combination, has proven to be a reliable and durable truck. The L84 engine is known for its longevity, and the 10L80 transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. On the used car market, these trucks hold their value relatively well, due to their reputation for dependability and capability. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and brake service. Overall, the Sierra 1500 V represents a solid choice for buyers seeking a capable and reliable full-size pickup truck.
