The GMC Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab with the Standard Box and 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine, paired with an automatic transmission and FlexFuel capability, was a popular configuration within the Sierra 1500 lineup produced from 2013 to 2015. This variant represented a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, targeting buyers who needed a full-size pickup for both work and family use. It occupied a middle ground in the Sierra 1500 range, positioned below the more powerful 5.3L and 6.2L V8 options, but offering a more economical alternative without sacrificing significant towing or hauling capacity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 (285/297 Hp) 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) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 297 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 69.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 413 Nm @ 3900 rpm (304.61 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 447 Nm @ 3900 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LV3 |
| Engine displacement | 4300 cm3 (262.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.6 mm (3.92 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 | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2268 kg (5000.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 862 kg (1900.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1728 l (61.02 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2630 kg (5798.16 lbs.) |
| Length | 6071 mm (239.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1873 mm (73.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3886 mm (152.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.8 m (48.56 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.4° |
| Departure angle | 23.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The fourth-generation GMC Sierra 1500 (GMTK2XX platform) debuted in 2014, representing a significant redesign for the popular full-size pickup. The 2013 model year was a transitional year, with some carryover components from the previous generation. The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine, introduced with this generation, offered a modern alternative to the traditional V8 options. The Crew Cab configuration, combined with the standard box length, provided a spacious interior and a versatile cargo bed, making it suitable for both passenger and hauling needs. This particular variant, with its 6-speed automatic transmission and FlexFuel capability, aimed to deliver a balance of performance, efficiency, and practicality.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 is the 4.3L (262.4 cubic inches) EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated as the LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, longitudinally mounted V6 featuring direct fuel injection and a variable valve timing system. The EcoTec3 family of engines was designed to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions compared to previous GM V6 and V8 offerings. The LV3 boasts an 11:1 compression ratio and utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The FlexFuel capability allows the engine to run on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85), providing some flexibility at the pump. When running on E85, the engine produces slightly more horsepower (297 hp) and torque (447 Nm) due to ethanol’s higher octane rating. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was specifically tuned to work with the characteristics of the 4.3L V6, optimizing gear ratios for both everyday driving and towing.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6-powered Sierra 1500 offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to its V8 siblings. While lacking the immediate grunt of the larger engines, the 4.3L provided adequate power for most everyday driving situations. Acceleration was respectable, but not particularly brisk. The 6-speed automatic transmission did a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power band, but downshifts could sometimes be hesitant when needing to pass or climb hills. The weight-to-power ratio of 8 kg/Hp meant that the truck felt less nimble than lighter-weight configurations. However, the engine’s torque output of 413 Nm (304.61 lb-ft) provided sufficient pulling power for moderate towing and hauling tasks. Fuel economy was a key advantage of this variant, offering better MPG figures than the V8 models, especially in city driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.3L Sierra 1500 Crew Cab typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and a tilt steering wheel. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and SLT, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and comfortable, with a focus on durability. The Crew Cab configuration offered ample space for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilized a fully boxed frame for increased rigidity and strength. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride quality, but also allowed for decent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter (345×20 mm) compared to the front brakes (330×30 mm). Steering was rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 as a capable and efficient engine option for the Sierra 1500. It was seen as a good choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the V8s and prioritized fuel economy. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L offered significantly better gas mileage, but lacked the same level of towing capacity and acceleration. The 4.3L also proved to be a more reliable engine than some of the earlier EcoTec3 V8s, with fewer reports of oil consumption issues. The automatic transmission was generally well-regarded for its smooth operation and durability.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6-powered Sierra 1500 has proven to be a relatively reliable and long-lasting truck. The engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. On the used car market, these trucks represent a good value for buyers looking for a capable and affordable full-size pickup. While not as sought-after as the V8 models, the 4.3L Sierra 1500 remains a popular choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and practicality. The combination of a spacious Crew Cab, a versatile standard box, and a reliable powertrain makes it a solid all-around truck that continues to serve owners well today.
