The GMC Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Double Cab, equipped with the 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was a popular configuration within the Sierra 1500 lineup from 2013 to 2015. This variant represented a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability, targeting buyers who needed the utility of a full-size pickup but didn’t require the higher performance or cost of the larger V8 engines. It occupied a mid-range position in the Sierra 1500 offerings, slotting below the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 models, and above any potential base engine configurations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Double Cab |
| 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.4 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 | 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3220 kg (7098.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 905 kg (1995.18 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%) | 3039 kg (6699.85 lbs.) |
| Length | 5829 mm (229.49 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1876 mm (73.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 216 mm (8.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 16.2° |
| Departure angle | 23.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.9° |
| 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
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 4.3L LV3 EcoTec3 V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 90-degree V6 featuring direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation. The cylinder deactivation system, Active Fuel Management, allows the engine to operate on only four cylinders during light-load conditions, improving fuel economy. The LV3 utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice that contributes to its compact size and relatively simple maintenance. The six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was the sole transmission option for this engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, and its gear ratios are optimized for both towing and everyday driving. The engine is FlexFuel capable, meaning it can run on gasoline or a blend of up to 85% ethanol (E85). When running on E85, the engine produces slightly more horsepower (297 hp) and torque (447 Nm) due to ethanol’s higher octane rating.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6, paired with the six-speed automatic, provided adequate power for most everyday driving situations. Acceleration was respectable, though not as brisk as the V8-powered Sierra models. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, and the gear ratios were well-suited for maintaining highway speeds. Towing capacity was significantly lower than the V8 options, but still capable of handling lighter trailers and payloads. The cylinder deactivation system was generally seamless, though some drivers reported a slight vibration when transitioning between V6 and V4 modes. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other Sierra 1500 trims, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, it did result in a slight decrease in fuel economy and a less engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.3L Double 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 durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. The Double Cab configuration offered a spacious rear seat, making it a comfortable option for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) utilized a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. Brakes were ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS standard. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but not as powerful as the larger brakes found on the heavier V8 models. Steering was rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, providing a responsive and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 Sierra 1500 Double Cab was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option in the full-size pickup segment. It offered a good balance of capability and affordability, making it an attractive choice for buyers who didn’t need the maximum towing capacity or performance of the V8 models. Fuel economy was a key selling point, particularly compared to the less efficient V8 engines. However, some critics noted that the V6 engine could feel underpowered when towing heavy loads or driving uphill. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L offered lower initial cost and better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 4.3L also tended to have slightly lower resale values than the V8 models.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 engine and the six-speed Hydra-Matic transmission proved to be relatively reliable powertrains. While not without their occasional issues (such as oil leaks and timing chain wear), these components generally held up well over time. Today, used examples of the 2013-2015 Sierra 1500 Double Cab with the 4.3L V6 are readily available and often represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup. The engine’s FlexFuel capability adds to its versatility, allowing owners to take advantage of lower ethanol prices when available. Overall, this variant remains a practical and dependable choice in the used truck market.
