The GMC Sierra 1500 V, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021 as part of the GMTT1XX generation, this variant aimed to balance capability, comfort, and technology within the highly competitive American truck market. It served as a popular choice for buyers needing a versatile vehicle for both work and family use, positioned as a step up from the base engine options but below the more powerful 6.2L V8.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD 8 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2021 |
| 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) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 159.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 232.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | L84 |
| 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, VVT DI |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.1 l (13.84 US qt | 11.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2231 kg (4918.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1035 kg (2281.78 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 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 | 1918 mm (75.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 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 |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2018-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 V Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L V8 4WD represents a sweet spot in the Sierra lineup for many buyers. Built on the GMTT1XX platform, this generation marked a move towards increased refinement and technology compared to its predecessors. The Crew Cab configuration offered ample passenger space, while the short bed provided a balance between cargo capacity and maneuverability. The 5.3L V8, paired with the eight-speed automatic, was a popular choice, offering a good compromise between power, fuel economy, and price. This variant aimed to appeal to customers who needed a capable truck for both daily driving and occasional towing or hauling.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 is the GM L84 5.3-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s Small Block family, featuring aluminum cylinder heads and a cast iron block. It utilizes direct fuel injection (DFI) and variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency. The L84 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine’s architecture is a traditional overhead valve (OHV) configuration, known for its simplicity and durability. The 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission, co-developed with Ford, is a key component of this powertrain. This transmission features electronically controlled shifts and a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both improved fuel economy and enhanced towing capability. The transmission’s programming is tuned to provide smooth shifts during normal driving and responsive downshifts when needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive acceleration. The 4WD system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use. Compared to the 2.7L Turbo or the 4.3L V6, the 5.3L offers a noticeable increase in power and towing capacity. However, it doesn’t quite match the raw power of the 6.2L. The gear ratios in the 8L90 transmission are well-suited for highway cruising, keeping engine speeds low and contributing to a quieter cabin. The overall driving experience is refined and comfortable, making it a pleasant vehicle for long trips.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L V8 was available in various trim levels, including SLE, Elevation, SLT, and AT4. Standard equipment typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a sunroof, a navigation system, and a trailering package. The interior design was functional and well-appointed, with comfortable seating and a user-friendly layout.
Chassis & Braking
The GMTT1XX Sierra 1500 features a fully boxed frame, contributing to its strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring design, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination provides a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering system is an electric power rack-and-pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering feel. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, with options ranging from 17-inch to 18-inch wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L V8 and 8-speed automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, with EPA estimates around 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra 1500 offered a competitive package with a focus on refinement and technology. The 5.3L V8 was often seen as a good value, providing a balance between power and efficiency. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The 2018-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 V 5.3L V8 4WD continues to be a popular choice in the used truck market. The L84 engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. The 8L90 transmission has also proven to be reliable. These trucks offer a good combination of capability, comfort, and technology at a reasonable price point. As with any used vehicle, it’s important to have a pre-purchase inspection performed to identify any potential issues. Overall, this Sierra 1500 variant represents a solid and dependable full-size pickup truck that continues to provide years of service.
