The GMC Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 3.0 Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine producing 277 horsepower and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, was a relatively short-lived but significant offering in the full-size pickup truck market. Produced from 2019 to 2021, this variant aimed to bridge the gap between the gasoline-powered Sierra 1500 models and the heavier-duty 2500/3500 series, offering a blend of capability, fuel efficiency, and refinement. It represented GMC’s response to increasing demand for diesel options in the half-ton truck segment, particularly from buyers seeking towing capacity and improved mileage.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 Duramax TD (277 Hp) 4WD 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) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 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 |
| 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 | 2254 kg (4969.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 967 kg (2131.87 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%) | 3991 kg (8798.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 6128 mm (241.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Height | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3987 mm (156.97 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the GM LM2 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engine. This engine, a relatively new design for GM, utilizes a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine also features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine’s DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to its responsiveness and broad torque curve. The 10-speed automatic transmission, co-developed with Ford, provides a wide range of gear ratios, optimizing both fuel economy and towing performance. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and intelligent shift programming.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0L Duramax in the Sierra 1500 delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the gasoline-powered V6 or V8 options. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2L V8, the diesel offers a substantial 459.5 lb-ft of torque, available from a low 1500 rpm. This makes it an excellent choice for towing and hauling, providing effortless acceleration even with a heavy load. The 10-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, contributing to responsive performance. Compared to manual transmission equipped Sierras, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and convenience, though it may sacrifice some driver engagement. Fuel economy is a significant advantage, with EPA estimates around 22 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, considerably better than the gasoline engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0L Duramax was typically offered on the SLE, Elevation, and AT4 trim levels of the Sierra 1500. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, like the AT4, added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Optional extras included a power sunroof, a bed liner, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500’s chassis is a fully boxed frame designed for strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring setup, providing a comfortable ride. The rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring configuration, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The size of the rear discs (345×20 mm) is consistent across most Sierra 1500 models. The four-wheel drive system is an electronically controlled system, allowing the driver to select between 2WD, 4HI, and 4LO modes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0L Duramax Sierra 1500 received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, strong towing capability, and refined driving experience. However, some noted that the engine was not as powerful as some of its competitors, such as the Ford F-150’s Power Stroke diesel. Compared to the gasoline-powered Sierra 1500 models, the Duramax offered significantly better fuel economy, but came at a higher initial cost. Reliability reports have been generally favorable, with the LM2 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The 3.0L Duramax Sierra 1500, despite its short production run, established a foothold for diesel power in the half-ton pickup truck market. The LM2 engine has proven to be a robust and reliable unit, and continues to be a popular choice in the used truck market. While GMC discontinued this specific configuration after 2021, the demand for fuel-efficient and capable trucks ensures that these models will remain desirable for years to come. The combination of diesel power, a sophisticated automatic transmission, and a comfortable cabin makes the 3.0L Duramax Sierra 1500 a compelling option for buyers seeking a versatile and efficient full-size pickup.
