The GMC Sierra 1500 V, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3L V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of GMC’s full-size pickup truck lineage. Introduced with the GMTT1XX platform facelift in 2022, this variant aimed to balance capability, comfort, and technology within the highly competitive American full-size truck market. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Sierra 1500 lineup, it slotted between the base models with smaller engines and the more premium trims featuring the 6.2L V8 or the Duramax diesel engine. This model year marked a refresh for the fourth generation Sierra, bringing updated styling, enhanced interior features, and improved technology integration.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX, facelift 2022) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| 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, 6.8 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 | 6.1 kg/Hp, 164.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.8 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 | 2155 kg (4750.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 929 kg (2048.09 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4218 kg (9299.1 lbs.) |
| Length | 5891 mm (231.93 in.) |
| Width | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2478 mm (97.56 in.) |
| Height | 1917 mm (75.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Approach angle | 18.7° |
| Departure angle | 23.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 2022 Sierra 1500 V Crew Cab Short Box is 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 utilizes direct fuel injection (DFI) and Active Fuel Management (AFM), also known as cylinder deactivation, to improve fuel economy. AFM allows the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, such as highway cruising, effectively shutting down half of the engine to reduce fuel consumption. The engine features an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust valves. This combination provides a good balance of low-end torque and high-end power. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis, sending power to the rear wheels via a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission (10L80). This transmission offers a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both improved acceleration and enhanced fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 paired with the 10-speed automatic delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The 10-speed transmission is generally smooth and responsive, making good use of the engine’s torque curve. The wide gear ratios allow the engine to stay within its optimal power band more frequently. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Sierra, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and convenience over outright performance. The automatic transmission’s programming is geared towards smooth shifts and fuel efficiency, rather than aggressive downshifts. The Crew Cab Short Box configuration offers a good balance between interior space and maneuverability, making it suitable for both daily commuting and work-related tasks.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2022 Sierra 1500 V Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L Automatic typically came standard with features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE and Elevation, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included a power sunroof, a bed liner, and various towing packages. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth on base models, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and well-organized, with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 V utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration is optimized for carrying heavy loads and providing a comfortable ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The front brakes measure 330x30mm, while the rear brakes are slightly larger at 345x20mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 V 5.3L Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and capable powertrain. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size truck, with the AFM system helping to improve efficiency during highway driving. Compared to the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra 1500 offered a slightly more refined driving experience and a more upscale interior. However, some critics noted that the Sierra’s styling was less bold than its competitors. The 5.3L V8 offered a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra performance of the 6.2L V8 or the fuel efficiency of the Duramax diesel.
Legacy
The L84 5.3L V8 and 10L80 automatic transmission combination has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While some early versions of the 10-speed transmission experienced minor issues, these were largely addressed through software updates. In the used car market, the 2022 Sierra 1500 V 5.3L Automatic holds its value well, thanks to its reputation for reliability and capability. The GMTT1XX platform represents a significant step forward in terms of technology and refinement for the GMC Sierra 1500, solidifying its position as a competitive player in the full-size truck segment.
