The GMC Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine and a 4WD automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2013 through 2015, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and fuel efficiency for the American truck buyer. It was part of the fourth generation of the Sierra 1500, designated GMTK2XX, which brought substantial improvements in design, technology, and powertrain options compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 Hp) 4WD Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 150 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 380 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 71.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 564 Nm @ 4100 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L83 |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2367 kg (5218.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 899 kg (1981.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1512 l (53.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4354 kg (9598.93 lbs.) |
| Length | 5829 mm (229.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1879 mm (73.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 226 mm (8.9 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.4 m (47.24 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17.1° |
| Departure angle | 23.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.0° |
| 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 | 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 | 245/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter L83 EcoTec3 V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s small-block V8 family, but incorporates several advanced technologies. Key features include direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation (Active Fuel Management). Direct injection improves combustion efficiency and power output, while variable valve timing optimizes engine performance across the rev range. Cylinder deactivation allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, enhancing fuel economy. The L83 produces 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque on gasoline, with a bump to 380 hp and 564 Nm when running on E85 flex fuel. The engine is longitudinally mounted and paired with a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. This transmission was known for its smooth shifting and durability, providing adequate gear ratios for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the six-speed automatic delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provided ample power for most tasks, including towing and hauling. The automatic transmission was well-tuned for the engine’s torque curve, offering smooth and predictable shifts. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather or off-road conditions. The gear ratios were optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, but the truck’s substantial weight (over 5,200 lbs) meant that acceleration was not its strong suit. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in city driving, but at the expense of some driver engagement and potentially slightly lower fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box configuration was typically offered in SLE, SLT, and Denali trim levels. The base SLE trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. The SLT trim added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and additional chrome exterior trim. The Denali trim represented the pinnacle of luxury, with features like unique exterior styling, a more refined interior, and advanced technology features. This specific 5.3L/automatic combination was available across all three trims, with the higher trims offering more standard equipment and optional extras like navigation, a sunroof, and advanced safety features.
Chassis & Braking
The GMTK2XX Sierra 1500 featured a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension utilized an independent coil spring design, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good load-carrying capacity. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The truck’s substantial weight necessitated a robust braking system, and the discs provided adequate stopping power for most situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2013-2015 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, but the cylinder deactivation technology helped to improve efficiency. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered a more affordable price point and slightly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t require the ultimate in towing capacity or performance. The 1.8L and diesel options available in other markets were not offered in the US.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with many examples exceeding 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission is also known for its durability. On the used car market, these Sierra 1500s remain popular choices for buyers seeking a capable and comfortable full-size pickup truck. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The GMTK2XX generation Sierra 1500 represents a significant step forward in GMC’s truck design and technology, and the 5.3L V8/automatic combination continues to offer a compelling blend of capability, comfort, and value.
