The GMC Sierra 1500 V, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 6.2-liter V8 engine and four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Introduced as part of the GMTT1XX generation’s facelift in 2022, this variant caters to buyers seeking a blend of robust capability, refined comfort, and substantial power. Positioned as a mid-to-high trim level within the Sierra 1500 range, it offers a step up from the base engines while remaining below the more specialized Denali 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 enhancements and technology integration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX, facelift 2022) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.2 V8 (420 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| 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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 176.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 262.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 623 Nm @ 4100 rpm (459.5 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L87 |
| Engine displacement | 6162 cm3 (376.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt, 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.6 l (13.31 US qt, 11.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2377 kg (5240.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 934 kg (2059.12 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal, 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg (13000.66 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 | 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 this Sierra 1500 variant lies the GM L87 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s Small Block engine family, known for its durability and performance. The L87 utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine also features Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), which shuts down four cylinders during light-load driving conditions to further enhance fuel economy. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while a traditional design, contributes to the engine’s robust nature and relatively simple maintenance requirements. The engine is mated to a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission, providing a wide range of gear ratios for optimized acceleration, towing, and fuel efficiency. This transmission allows the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often, contributing to improved real-world performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.2-liter V8 paired with the 10-speed automatic delivers a confident and capable driving experience. With 420 horsepower and 459.5 lb.-ft. of torque, acceleration is brisk, and the truck feels powerful even when fully loaded or towing. The 10-speed transmission provides smooth and responsive shifts, and the wide gear ratios allow for both strong off-the-line acceleration and relaxed highway cruising. Compared to the smaller engine options in the Sierra 1500 lineup (such as the 2.7-liter turbo or the 5.3-liter V8), this variant offers significantly more power and torque, making it ideal for demanding tasks like towing heavy trailers or navigating challenging terrain. While not as fuel-efficient as the smaller engines, the cylinder deactivation technology helps to mitigate fuel consumption during normal driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 6.2L 4WD typically comes well-equipped, often including features like a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium sound system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a suite of advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Specific trim levels (SLE, Elevation, AT4) dictate the level of standard equipment and available options. The AT4 trim, for example, adds off-road-focused features like skid plates and a more aggressive suspension setup. Optional extras could include a power sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium trailering package.
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 balances ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.2-liter V8-equipped Sierra 1500 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride. However, its fuel economy was often cited as a drawback compared to the smaller engine options. In comparison to competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra 1500 offered a competitive combination of power, capability, and features. The Sierra’s interior design and materials were often considered to be a step above some of its rivals.
Legacy
The L87 6.2-liter V8 has proven to be a reliable and durable engine, with relatively few widespread issues reported. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. In the used car market, Sierra 1500 models equipped with this powertrain hold their value relatively well, particularly those that have been well-maintained and have a clean history. The combination of power, capability, and comfort makes this variant a desirable choice for buyers seeking a full-size pickup truck that can handle a variety of tasks.
