The GMC Sierra 1500 III, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 4.8-liter Vortec V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission, was a popular full-size pickup truck produced from 2007 to 2010. Representing the third generation of the Sierra 1500 (GMT900 platform), this variant occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It catered to buyers needing a versatile truck for both work and family use, without the higher price tag of the more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 III (GMT900) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.8 Vortec V8 (295 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 295 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 414 Nm @ 4600 rpm (305.35 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LY2 |
| Engine displacement | 4807 cm3 (293.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.01 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.06 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.7 l (13.42 US qt | 11.17 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Length | 5844 mm (230.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2031 mm (79.96 in.) |
| Height | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Rear track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 229 mm (9.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.4 m (47.24 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.3° |
| Departure angle | 22.8° |
| Ramp-over angle | 19.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 295×60 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2007-2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 4.8L Vortec V8 and automatic transmission, represented a significant step forward in full-size truck design. Built on the GMT900 platform, it offered a more refined interior, improved ride quality, and enhanced safety features compared to its predecessors. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample space for passengers, making it a practical choice for families, while the short bed offered a good compromise between cargo capacity and maneuverability. This particular variant aimed to provide a capable and comfortable truck experience at a more accessible price point than the larger 5.3L or 6.0L V8 options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 is the 4.8-liter (293 cubic inch) LY2 Vortec 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, utilizing a 9.1:1 compression ratio and a two-valve-per-cylinder (OHV) valvetrain. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal performance and efficiency. The engine produces 295 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm.
The engine is mated to a four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission, while not as sophisticated as newer multi-gear automatics, proved to be durable and reliable. The gear ratios were optimized for both towing and everyday driving, providing adequate acceleration and cruising ability. The automatic transmission contributed to the truck’s ease of use, particularly for drivers less familiar with manual transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.8L V8 and four-speed automatic combination delivered a comfortable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for most situations, but the truck didn’t possess the quickness of its larger-engined siblings. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly, but downshifts could sometimes feel hesitant when needing to pass or climb hills. The gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy and towing capability over outright performance. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.8L offered noticeably less power, especially when fully loaded or towing. However, it also provided better fuel economy and a slightly lighter front end, which could improve handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sierra 1500 Crew Cab Short Box 4.8L typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and SLT, added features like leather seats, a Bose sound system, heated seats, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded wheels, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and relatively spacious, with a focus on durability and ease of use. The Crew Cab configuration offered generous rear seat legroom, making it a comfortable option for passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The GMT900 platform featured a fully boxed frame, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination offered a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Brakes consisted of disc brakes up front and drum brakes in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with power assist, providing responsive and precise steering control.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Sierra 1500 for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and improved refinement compared to previous generations. The 4.8L V8 was seen as a good option for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the larger engines, offering a reasonable balance between performance and fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the 4.8L could feel underpowered when towing heavy loads or driving in hilly terrain. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.8L offered better fuel economy (around 14-19 mpg in real-world driving) but significantly less towing capacity. The 4.8L also tended to be more reliable in the long run, due to its simpler design and lower stress levels.
Legacy
The 4.8L Vortec V8, particularly when paired with the four-speed automatic transmission, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not known for blistering performance, it has earned a reputation for durability and longevity. Today, these trucks can be found in the used car market at affordable prices, making them a popular choice for budget-minded buyers. Common maintenance issues include oil leaks, sensor failures, and wear and tear on suspension components. However, parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making these trucks relatively easy to maintain. The GMT900 Sierra 1500 remains a capable and versatile truck, offering a good value for those seeking a reliable full-size pickup.
