The GMC Sierra 1500 V, specifically the Double Cab configuration powered by the 3.0 Duramax turbodiesel engine producing 277 horsepower, represents a significant offering in the full-size pickup truck segment. Introduced with the GMTT1XX platform facelift in 2022, this variant aimed to provide a balance of capability, fuel efficiency, and refinement for the North American market. It slots into the Sierra 1500 lineup as a mid-range option, appealing to buyers seeking diesel torque without the higher price tag of the Denali or AT4 trims. Production for this specific configuration was limited to the 2022 model year.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX, facelift 2022) Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 Duramax TD (277 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2022 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 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 | 20.7 l (21.87 US qt | 18.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2295 kg (5059.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3220 kg (7098.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 925 kg (2039.28 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83.3 l (22.01 US gal | 18.32 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 20.5 l (5.42 US gal | 4.51 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5988 kg (13201.28 lbs.) |
| Length | 5891 mm (231.93 in.) |
| Width | 2063 mm (81.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2478 mm (97.56 in.) |
| Height | 1921 mm (75.63 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3745 mm (147.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 200 mm (7.87 in.) |
| Approach angle | 18.6° |
| Departure angle | 24.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.3° |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab with the 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel engine and 10-speed automatic transmission was a key component of GMC’s strategy to offer a diverse range of powertrain options within its popular full-size truck lineup. Built on the GMTT1XX platform, which received a significant refresh in 2022, this variant aimed to appeal to customers prioritizing fuel economy and towing capacity. The Double Cab body style provides a useful blend of passenger space and bed length, making it suitable for both work and family use. This configuration was positioned as a step up from the base gasoline engines, offering increased torque for hauling and towing, while remaining more accessible than the higher-trim level options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 is the GM LM2 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The LM2 features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. The engine boasts a robust 15:1 compression ratio and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with the engine is a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission (specifically the 10L80) designed to optimize gear ratios for both fuel economy and performance. This transmission allows the engine to operate within its peak efficiency range more frequently. The transmission’s wide ratio spread also aids in towing and hauling heavy loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 277 horsepower and 623 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.0L Duramax engine provide a noticeable improvement in towing and hauling capabilities compared to the base gasoline engines. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2L V8, the diesel offers a broader, flatter torque curve, making it feel strong and capable in everyday driving situations. The 10-speed automatic transmission contributes to a smooth and refined driving experience, with quick and precise shifts. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing ample power for merging and passing. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Sierra, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and convenience, though it may sacrifice some driver engagement. Fuel economy is a significant advantage of this powertrain, offering substantial savings over the gasoline alternatives, particularly during highway driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2022 Sierra 1500 Double Cab 3.0 Duramax typically came standard with features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and basic safety features like automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels, such as SLE and Elevation, added features like heated seats, upgraded audio systems, and more advanced driver-assistance technologies. Optional extras included a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a trailering package. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth or leatherette, depending on the trim level. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500’s chassis features an independent coil spring front suspension and a traditional leaf spring rear suspension. 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, with larger rotors at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a comfortable ride, even when the truck is loaded. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering. The rear leaf springs are designed to handle substantial payloads without compromising ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0L Duramax-equipped Sierra 1500 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. The engine was praised for its strong torque output and excellent fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy compared to gasoline engines. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the Duramax offered superior fuel economy and towing capacity, but less overall horsepower. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the Duramax provided comparable towing capacity but less peak power. The Duramax variant was often seen as a sweet spot for buyers who prioritized efficiency and capability over outright performance.
Legacy
The LM2 3.0L Duramax engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While long-term reliability data is still accumulating, early reports suggest that the engine is generally robust and requires minimal maintenance. On the used car market, the 2022 Sierra 1500 Double Cab with the 3.0L Duramax holds its value relatively well, due to its desirable combination of fuel efficiency, capability, and refinement. The GMTT1XX platform refresh in 2022 also contributes to its continued appeal. This variant represents a significant step forward in diesel truck technology, offering a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline engines.
