The GMC Sierra 1500 V, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 engine and four-wheel drive automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Introduced with the GMTT1XX platform facelift in 2022, this variant occupies a sweet spot in the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology. It caters to buyers seeking a versatile truck for both work and personal use, without the premium price tag of the Denali or AT4 trims. This model year marked a continuation of the fourth-generation Sierra, building upon the improvements made in previous years with a focus on interior refinement and enhanced driver-assistance features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX, facelift 2022) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 157.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.7 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 | 2259 kg (4980.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 916 kg (2019.43 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4173 kg (9199.89 lbs.) |
| Length | 5891 mm (231.93 in.) |
| Width | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2478 mm (97.56 in.) |
| Height | 1918 mm (75.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 205 mm (8.07 in.) |
| Approach angle | 19.3° |
| Departure angle | 23.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.3° |
| 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 | 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 this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter L84 V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s Small Block family, known for its durability and relatively simple design. The L84 utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. It also features Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), which shuts down four cylinders during light-load driving conditions to further enhance fuel economy. The valvetrain employs an overhead valve (OHV) configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake side. This combination provides a good balance of low-end torque and high-end horsepower. The engine is mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission (likely the 10L80), which contributes to both improved fuel economy and enhanced towing capability. This transmission offers a wide range of gear ratios, allowing the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the 10-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8 option, the 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and towing. The 10-speed transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and responsive shifts. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Sierra 1500, this automatic version prioritizes ease of use and convenience. The automatic transmission also allows for more relaxed towing, as it manages gear selection automatically based on load and terrain. The four-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L 4WD typically came standard with a respectable array of features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE and Elevation, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and a trailering package. The interior design was generally functional and comfortable, with a focus on durability and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 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 well-suited for handling heavy loads and providing a comfortable ride. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic was generally well-received by critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, capable powertrain, and user-friendly technology. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, but the cylinder deactivation system helped to improve efficiency. Compared to the 6.2L V8 Sierra, the 5.3L offered a more affordable price point and slightly better fuel economy, albeit with less overall power. Compared to the diesel-powered Duramax engine, the 5.3L V8 provided a simpler and less expensive ownership experience, but lacked the diesel’s superior towing capacity and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The L84 5.3L V8 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. With proper maintenance, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. In the used car market, the 2022 Sierra 1500 Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L 4WD represents a solid value proposition. It offers a good balance of capability, comfort, and features at a reasonable price. These trucks are likely to remain popular choices for buyers seeking a versatile and dependable full-size pickup truck for years to come.
