The GMC Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box, equipped with the 3.0 Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine producing 277 horsepower, was a mid-cycle addition to the fourth generation of the Sierra 1500 pickup truck. Introduced for the 2019 model year and continuing through 2021, this variant aimed to provide a balance between the capability expected of a full-size truck and the improved fuel economy offered by a diesel powerplant. It occupied a middle ground in the Sierra 1500 lineup, positioned above the base gasoline engines but below the more powerful 6.2-liter V8. This configuration was primarily targeted towards buyers seeking a capable daily driver and occasional towing vehicle, prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing substantial performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 Duramax TD (277 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 277 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 623 Nm @ 1500 rpm (459.5 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5100 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LM2 |
| Engine displacement | 3000 cm3 (183.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 19.1 l (20.18 US qt | 16.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2231 kg (4918.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 990 kg (2182.58 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 20.3 l (5.36 US gal | 4.47 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4173 kg (9199.89 lbs.) |
| Length | 5886 mm (231.73 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1917 mm (75.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Introduction
The 2019-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab Short Box with the 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine represented GMC’s entry into the increasingly popular segment of light-duty diesel pickups. Built on the GMTT1XX platform, this truck aimed to deliver the towing and hauling capabilities expected of a Sierra 1500, while simultaneously offering improved fuel efficiency compared to its gasoline-powered counterparts. The Crew Cab configuration provided ample passenger space, making it suitable for families and those needing to transport multiple occupants. The short bed offered a balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability. This variant was a key component of GMC’s strategy to attract buyers seeking a versatile and efficient full-size truck.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 is the GM LM2 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder turbo-diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The valvetrain employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and performance. The engine’s 15:1 compression ratio is typical for diesel engines, maximizing thermal efficiency. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. Paired with the LM2 engine is a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission (specifically the 10L80) designed to optimize gear ratios for both fuel economy and towing performance. This transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a wide gear spread, allowing the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often.
Driving Characteristics
The 277 horsepower and 459.5 lb.-ft. of torque produced by the 3.0L Duramax, combined with the 10-speed automatic, resulted in a driving experience that prioritized usability and efficiency. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2L V8, the diesel offered a broad torque curve, providing ample pulling power from low RPMs. The 10-speed transmission helped keep the engine in its sweet spot, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration. The gear ratios were tuned for both highway cruising and towing, with lower gears providing strong acceleration and higher gears maximizing fuel economy. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the diesel offered noticeably better fuel economy, particularly during highway driving. However, the diesel’s acceleration was generally slower, especially when unladen. The overall driving experience was refined and comfortable, typical of the Sierra 1500, with a focus on minimizing noise and vibration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0L Duramax engine was available on several trim levels of the Sierra 1500, including SLE, Elevation, and AT4. Standard equipment typically included features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a power sunroof, a bed liner, and various towing packages. Interior upholstery varied depending on the trim level, ranging from cloth on the SLE to leather on the AT4. Dashboard configurations were generally consistent across trims, with minor variations in trim materials and accent colors.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500’s chassis featured an independent coil spring front suspension and a rigid axle rear suspension with leaf springs. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger discs used on the front axle to provide increased stopping power. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The rear brakes were slightly smaller than the front brakes, reflecting the weight distribution of the truck. Stabilizer bars were included on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering system utilized an electric power steering (EPS) system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0L Duramax Sierra 1500 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its improved fuel economy compared to gasoline-powered rivals, as well as its strong towing capacity and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine was relatively expensive compared to the base gasoline engines. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the diesel offered better fuel economy but less overall power. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the diesel offered significantly less power but a substantial improvement in fuel efficiency. Reliability reports have been generally favorable, with the LM2 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The 3.0L Duramax-powered Sierra 1500 has established itself as a popular choice in the used truck market. Its combination of capability, efficiency, and comfort has made it a desirable option for buyers seeking a versatile full-size pickup. The LM2 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with proper maintenance. As these trucks age, they continue to hold their value well, reflecting their reputation for durability and practicality. The introduction of this diesel engine option broadened the appeal of the Sierra 1500, attracting a wider range of buyers and solidifying its position as a competitive offering in the full-size truck segment.
