The GMC Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and value. It was part of the fourth generation of the Sierra, known as the GMTT1XX platform, which brought substantial improvements in technology, materials, and overall refinement compared to its predecessors. This configuration was aimed at buyers needing a robust truck for both work and family use, prioritizing a smooth driving experience alongside proven V8 power.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) 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 kg/Hp, 166.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 243.4 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 | L82 |
| 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 |
| Coolant | 12.8 l (13.53 US qt | 11.26 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2132 kg (4700.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 998 kg (2200.21 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4400 kg (9700.34 lbs.) |
| Length | 5886 mm (231.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1917 mm (75.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 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 |
| 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 L82 V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s Small Block family, known for its durability and relatively simple design. The L82 featured direct injection, a significant upgrade over earlier iterations, improving fuel efficiency and power output. The direct injection system allowed for more precise fuel delivery and higher compression ratios. The engine also incorporated Active Fuel Management (AFM), or cylinder deactivation, which shut down four cylinders during light-load cruising to further enhance fuel economy. The valvetrain utilized an overhead valve (OHV) configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance across the engine’s operating range. The engine was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission (likely the 6L80-E), chosen for its smooth shifting and ability to handle the engine’s torque. This transmission was a workhorse for GM trucks and SUVs, known for its reliability when properly maintained.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2-liter V8, the 5.3L offered ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission was tuned for smooth shifts and generally didn’t hunt for gears. The gear ratios were optimized for both highway cruising and pulling loads. Compared to the available 2.7L Turbo or the diesel options, the 5.3L provided a more traditional V8 feel, with a responsive throttle and a satisfying exhaust note. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did result in slightly lower fuel economy compared to the available six-speed manual transmission, and a less engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L V8 was available in a variety of trim levels, including SLE, Elevation, and SLT. The SLE trim served as the entry-level option, offering standard features like air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and cloth upholstery. The Elevation trim added a more aggressive appearance package with blacked-out trim and 20-inch wheels. The SLT trim represented a step up in luxury, featuring leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and additional convenience features. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample space for passengers in both the front and rear seats, making it a popular choice for families.
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 was designed to balance ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering a responsive and precise feel. The rear axle ratio varied depending on the specific configuration, impacting both fuel economy and towing capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra offered a slightly more refined driving experience and a more upscale interior. However, the F-150 often boasted higher towing capacity and a wider range of engine options. Fuel economy was considered average for the segment, falling somewhere in the middle of the pack. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the AFM system.
Legacy
The GMTT1XX generation Sierra 1500, particularly the 5.3L V8 automatic variant, has proven to be a durable and reliable truck in the used car market. The L82 engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered a robust powerplant capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. The six-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be relatively reliable. These trucks continue to be popular choices for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and inspections of the AFM system. Overall, the Sierra 1500 V 5.3L automatic represents a solid and dependable option for those in need of a versatile and long-lasting truck.
