The GMC Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab with the Standard Box and 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 engine, paired with an automatic transmission and FlexFuel capability, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2013 through 2015, this configuration occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra 1500 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 predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 EcoTec3 V8 (355/380 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) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.2 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 | 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 860 kg (1895.98 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%) | 4400 kg (9700.34 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine, designated as the L83. This engine is a naturally aspirated, aluminum-block V8 featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. The direct injection system optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery, while cylinder deactivation allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, improving fuel economy. The OHV valvetrain, while traditional, was optimized for low-end torque. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 382.79 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. When running on E85 fuel, the engine output increases to 380 horsepower and 564 Nm of torque. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing, chosen for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics. This transmission features electronically controlled shifting and overdrive for highway efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered ample power for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission was tuned for smooth, predictable shifts, prioritizing comfort over aggressive performance. The gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising. The truck felt planted and stable, even when carrying a load. Compared to manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in city traffic. However, it did result in a slight decrease in fuel economy and a less engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab configuration, combined with the standard box, offered a spacious interior and a versatile cargo bed. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and SLT, 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 interior design was functional and durable, reflecting the truck’s work-oriented nature.
Chassis & Braking
The GMTK2XX platform featured a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and strength. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS as standard. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system was a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, providing responsive and precise handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8 with the automatic transmission was a popular choice among Sierra 1500 buyers. Critics praised the engine’s smooth power delivery and the transmission’s seamless shifting. Fuel economy was considered adequate for a full-size pickup truck, especially when compared to the larger 6.2L V8. Compared to the available diesel engine, the 5.3L offered lower upfront cost but less impressive fuel economy and towing capacity. The 5.3L represented a good value proposition for buyers who needed a capable and comfortable truck without the expense of the higher-end trims.
Legacy
The L83 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 has proven to be a relatively reliable engine, with many examples still on the road today. Common issues include oil consumption and occasional misfires, but these are often addressable with routine maintenance. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, the 2013-2015 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab with the 5.3L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and affordability. Its continued presence is a testament to the robust engineering and thoughtful design of this particular configuration.
