The GMC Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Standard Box, equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission with four-wheel drive, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Produced from 2018 to 2021, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra 1500 lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology aimed at both work and personal use. It was part of the fourth generation of the Sierra 1500, known internally as the GMTT1XX platform, which brought substantial improvements in materials, design, and features compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX) Crew Cab Standard Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD 10 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) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 157.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.3 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 | 2254 kg (4969.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3221 kg (7101.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 967 kg (2131.87 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4127 kg (9098.48 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter L84 V8 engine. This engine is a member of GM’s Small Block family, known for its durability and relatively simple design. The L84 features direct injection, a significant upgrade from earlier iterations, improving fuel efficiency and power output. The direct injection system, combined with Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), allows the engine to operate in four-cylinder mode during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The engine utilizes an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance across the rev range. Paired with this engine is the 10L80 ten-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, a collaborative effort between GM and Ford, provides a wide gear ratio spread, enabling both strong acceleration and relaxed highway cruising. The 10-speed design allows the engine to stay within its optimal power band more frequently, improving both performance and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic combination delivers a capable and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the available 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample torque for everyday tasks, including towing and hauling. The 10-speed transmission is a key contributor to the driving experience, offering smooth and quick shifts. The wide gear ratios allow for a lower first gear for improved off-the-line acceleration and a higher tenth gear for efficient highway cruising. Compared to earlier Sierra models with older transmissions, the 10-speed significantly improves responsiveness and reduces hunting for the right gear. The four-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and light off-road use. The ride quality is generally comfortable, thanks to the independent front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension, although the ride can become somewhat firm when the truck is heavily loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sierra 1500 V with the 5.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic was available in a variety of trim levels, including SLE, Elevation, SLT, and Denali. The SLE trim served as the entry-level option, offering standard features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. The Elevation trim added a more aggressive appearance package with blacked-out exterior accents. The SLT trim offered a step up in luxury, with features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Denali trim represented the pinnacle of luxury, with exclusive exterior and interior styling, advanced safety features, and a host of convenience features. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Chassis & Braking
The GMTT1XX platform utilizes a fully boxed frame, contributing to its strength and rigidity. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measure 330x30mm, while the rear brakes are slightly smaller at 345x20mm. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control. The steering system utilizes an electric power steering (EPS) system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2018-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, capable powertrain, and improved technology. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered a more affordable entry point while still providing ample power for most tasks. The 5.3L also offered better fuel economy than the 6.2L, making it a more practical choice for those who prioritize efficiency. Compared to the available diesel engine options, the 5.3L V8 provided a simpler and potentially more reliable powertrain, although it lacked the diesel’s exceptional torque and fuel economy.
Legacy
The L84 5.3L V8 and 10L80 transmission combination has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While some minor issues have been reported, such as oil consumption and transmission shudder, these are generally not widespread and can often be addressed with routine maintenance and software updates. In the used car market, these Sierra 1500s remain popular choices, offering a good balance of capability, comfort, and value. The GMTT1XX platform represents a significant step forward for the Sierra 1500, and these models continue to be well-regarded for their overall quality and dependability.
