The GMC Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Double Cab, equipped with the 4.3L V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and paired with a 4WD automatic transmission, was a key offering in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineup from the 2018 to 2021 model years. This configuration represented a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability within the broader Sierra 1500 range, targeting buyers who needed a versatile truck for both work and personal use. It slotted in as the base engine option, positioned below the more powerful 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines, and offered a compelling alternative to those prioritizing value and reasonable running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 V6 (285 Hp) 4WD 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 413 Nm @ 3900 rpm (304.61 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4301 cm3 (262.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.6 mm (3.92 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2231 kg (4918.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 944 kg (2081.16 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3356 kg (7398.71 lbs.) |
| Length | 5886 mm (231.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1921 mm (75.63 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 | 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 |
| 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
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 4.3L (262 cubic inch) LV3 V6 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s EcoTec3 family, known for its aluminum block construction and direct fuel injection. The LV3 utilizes a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice that prioritizes simplicity and cost-effectiveness over the more complex overhead cam setups found in some competitors. The direct injection system, combined with a compression ratio of 11:1, contributes to improved fuel efficiency and power output. A key feature of the LV3 is its Active Fuel Management (AFM), or cylinder deactivation system, which shuts down two cylinders under light load conditions to further enhance fuel economy. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission (likely the 6L80) which is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. This transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6, while not offering the outright acceleration of the larger V8s, provides adequate power for everyday driving and typical truck tasks. The automatic transmission is tuned for smooth operation and generally provides responsive shifts. The 6-speed automatic’s gear ratios are optimized for both towing and highway cruising. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other Sierra 1500 trims, the automatic prioritizes convenience and ease of use, but at the expense of some driver engagement and potentially slightly lower fuel economy. The weight of the Double Cab configuration, combined with the 4WD system, does impact acceleration, but the engine’s torque output (304 lb-ft) provides sufficient pulling power for moderate towing and hauling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.3L V6 Double Cab typically served as the entry point into the Sierra 1500 lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with vinyl flooring. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and Elevation, added features like upgraded infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, power-adjustable seats, and more premium interior materials. Optional extras included a trailer towing package, off-road packages with skid plates and upgraded suspension, and various convenience features like remote start and a power sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Double Cab utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration is designed to balance ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, providing a responsive and comfortable steering experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the 4.3L V6 Sierra 1500 as a competent and practical truck, particularly for buyers who didn’t require the maximum towing or hauling capacity offered by the V8 models. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the V6 offering a noticeable improvement over the larger engines. However, some reviewers noted that the V6 could feel strained when fully loaded or when climbing steep hills. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the Sierra’s V6 offered a more traditional engine character, lacking the turbocharged punch of the Ford. Reliability reports generally indicate that the LV3 engine and 6L80 transmission are relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial.
Legacy
The 4.3L V6-powered Sierra 1500 Double Cab has established itself as a solid and dependable used truck option. Its relatively simple engine design and proven transmission contribute to its long-term reliability. These trucks are readily available on the used market at reasonable prices, making them an attractive choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup. While not the most powerful or technologically advanced truck in its class, the 4.3L V6 Sierra 1500 offers a compelling combination of practicality, durability, and value that continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
