The GMC Sierra 1500 V, specifically the Double Cab 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 North American 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 larger 6.2L V8 or the Duramax diesel engine. This particular combination targeted buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the higher price tag of the top-tier models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 V (GMTT1XX, facelift 2022) Double Cab |
| 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 | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 226.1 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 | 2295 kg (5059.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3220 kg (7098.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 925 kg (2039.28 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5080 kg (11199.48 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 |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sierra 1500 variant is the 5.3L 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), a cylinder deactivation system that shuts down four cylinders during light-load cruising to improve fuel economy. The engine employs an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and efficiency across the rev range. The 10-speed automatic transmission (likely the 10L80) is a key component, offering a wide gear ratio spread for both towing and fuel efficiency. This transmission is electronically controlled and features a sophisticated shift strategy designed to maximize power delivery and smoothness.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 paired with the 10-speed automatic delivers a respectable driving experience. While not as quick as the 6.2L models, the 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and towing. The 10-speed transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for both low-end torque for hauling and higher gears for efficient highway cruising. Compared to manual transmission equipped Sierras, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers may find the automatic less engaging than a manual. The Double Cab configuration provides a comfortable ride, though the leaf spring rear suspension can feel somewhat firm when unloaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2022 Sierra 1500 Double Cab 5.3L V8 typically came standard with features like a touchscreen infotainment system (usually 8-inch), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the SLE or Elevation, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a larger touchscreen, and advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a premium audio system, a power sunroof, and various towing packages. Interior materials were generally durable and functional, reflecting the truck’s work-oriented nature.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust platform for hauling and towing. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration prioritizes load-carrying capacity over ultimate ride comfort. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power steering, offering a comfortable and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 Automatic was generally well-received by critics and consumers. It offered a good balance of power, fuel economy, and capability at a competitive price point. Compared to the smaller 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the 5.3L V8 provided significantly more power and towing capacity. However, it was less fuel-efficient. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offered a lower price of entry but sacrificed some performance. Reliability has been generally good, with the L84 engine proving to be a durable powerplant. However, some owners have reported issues with the AFM system, such as oil consumption.
Legacy
The 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L V8 Automatic represents a solid and dependable full-size pickup truck. The L84 engine, coupled with the 10-speed automatic, provides a capable and relatively efficient powertrain. On the used car market, these trucks hold their value reasonably well, particularly those in good condition with a well-maintained service history. The combination of capability, comfort, and technology makes this Sierra 1500 a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and reliable workhorse.
