The GMC Sierra 1500 IV, produced from 2014 to 2015, represented a significant update to GMC’s full-size pickup truck line. Within the fourth generation (GMTK2XX platform), the Regular Cab Long Box configuration with the 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 engine and automatic transmission offered a compelling blend of capability and affordability. This variant occupied the entry-level position in the Sierra 1500 lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing work-truck functionality and fuel efficiency over outright performance. It served as a workhorse for individuals and businesses needing a robust pickup without the premium cost of higher trim levels or larger engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 IV (GMTK2XX) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 4.3 EcoTec3 V6 (285/297 Hp) Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| 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 | 2071 kg (4565.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3039 kg (6699.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 968 kg (2134.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2162 l (76.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 128 l (33.81 US gal | 28.16 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2857 kg (6298.61 lbs.) |
| Length | 5701 mm (224.45 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1867 mm (73.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm (132.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1747 mm (68.78 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 212 mm (8.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.4 m (43.96 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.7° |
| Departure angle | 23.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 (262 cubic inch) EcoTec3 V6 engine, designated LV3. This engine is a naturally aspirated, direct-injected powerplant featuring Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) to improve fuel economy. The direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber, enhancing efficiency and power output. The engine utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, a design choice prioritizing simplicity and durability. The 4.3L V6 produces 285 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 305 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm. When running on E85 flex fuel, output increases to 297 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission, chosen for its smooth operation and reliability. This transmission features electronically controlled shifting and is designed to handle the demands of truck usage.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.3L V6 and six-speed automatic combination in the Sierra 1500 Regular Cab Long Box delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is sufficient for everyday driving and moderate towing, but it won’t match the responsiveness of the available 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engines. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth shifts, prioritizing comfort over aggressive downshifts. The gear ratios are optimized for highway cruising, but may require more frequent downshifts when hauling heavy loads or navigating hilly terrain. Compared to manual transmission equipped models, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it does result in a slight reduction in fuel economy and a less engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab Long Box 4.3L Sierra 1500 typically came standard with basic work-truck features. This included a vinyl interior, air conditioning, a basic audio system, and steel wheels. Optional extras included power windows and locks, cruise control, an upgraded audio system, and a trailering package. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE and SLT, added more luxurious features like cloth or leather upholstery, alloy wheels, and advanced infotainment systems. The base trim focused on functionality and affordability, making it a popular choice for commercial users and budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 IV utilizes a fully boxed frame for enhanced rigidity and durability. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, providing a comfortable ride. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup, designed to handle heavy loads. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The rear brakes are slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering responsive handling and reduced driver effort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.3L V6 Sierra 1500 was generally well-received as a capable and affordable work truck. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, particularly compared to the larger V8 engines. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power and refinement of its competitors. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the 4.3L offered significantly lower towing capacity and acceleration. The 1.8L offered a more economical option, but at the expense of performance. Reliability was generally good, with the EcoTec3 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The 4.3L EcoTec3 V6-powered Sierra 1500 has established a reputation as a reliable and affordable used truck. The engine is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. While not the most powerful option, it provides sufficient capability for many tasks. On the used car market, these models represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable pickup truck without breaking the bank. The combination of a durable engine, a robust chassis, and a reasonable price point ensures that the 4.3L Sierra 1500 remains a popular choice among truck buyers today.
