The GMC Sierra 2500HD IV (GMTK2XX) Double Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel-drive automatic transmission, was a mainstay of GMC’s heavy-duty truck lineup from the 2015 to 2019 model years. This configuration represented a balance between capability and everyday usability within the Sierra 2500HD range, targeting buyers who needed substantial towing and hauling capacity but didn’t necessarily require the diesel engine’s ultimate power. It occupied a middle ground, offering more power and capability than the base engine options, but at a lower price point than the Duramax diesel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 2500HD |
| Generation | Sierra 2500HD IV (GMTK2XX) Double Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm (379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec L96 |
| Engine displacement | 5965 cm3 (364.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm (4 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16.1 l (17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2894 kg (6380.18 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 4309 kg (9499.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1415 kg (3119.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1728 l (61.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg (13000.66 lbs.) |
| Length | 5842 mm (230 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2045 mm (80.51 in.) |
| Height | 1983 mm (78.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3662 mm (144.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1748 mm (68.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15 m (49.21 ft.) |
| 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 2500HD variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of the Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. The L96 utilizes a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm.
The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission was designed to handle the high torque output of the V8 engine and provide smooth, reliable shifting. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0-liter V8 and six-speed automatic combination provided a solid, if not spectacular, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and even for towing moderate loads. However, it lacked the immediate responsiveness of some competitors’ engines. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The gear ratios were optimized for towing, meaning that the truck wasn’t particularly fuel-efficient when driven unloaded. Compared to the diesel variants, this configuration offered less low-end torque, requiring the transmission to downshift more frequently when climbing hills or hauling heavy loads. Compared to the base V8, the 360 hp version offered a noticeable improvement in power and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab Standard Box configuration typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the SLT and Denali, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The Double Cab configuration offered a second row of seating, making it suitable for families or crews. The Standard Box provided a good balance between cargo space and overall vehicle length.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 2500HD IV featured a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilized coil springs and a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, even when the truck was loaded. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0-liter V8-powered Sierra 2500HD received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its robust construction, comfortable ride, and ample towing capacity. However, some noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor compared to competitors, particularly the diesel-powered models. The diesel variants offered significantly more torque and better fuel economy, but at a higher price point. The 6.0-liter V8 was often seen as a good value for buyers who didn’t need the ultimate towing capability of the diesel. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the active fuel management system, which deactivated cylinders to improve fuel economy.
Legacy
The GMC Sierra 2500HD IV (GMTK2XX) with the 6.0-liter V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market. Its robust construction and relatively simple design make it a reliable and affordable option for buyers who need a capable heavy-duty truck. While it may not be as fuel-efficient as newer models, its proven track record and ample towing capacity continue to make it a desirable vehicle. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are reasonable. The L96 engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service.
