The GMC Sierra 2500HD IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a 4WD automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in GMC’s heavy-duty truck lineage. Produced from 2015 to 2019, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the Sierra 2500HD lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and technology aimed at buyers needing serious towing and hauling capacity without the expense of the diesel options. It was part of the fourth generation of the Sierra HD series, designated GMTK2XX, which brought substantial improvements in interior refinement, ride quality, and available features compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 2500HD |
| Generation | Sierra 2500HD IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp, 118.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 4200 rpm, 379.84 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Vortec L96 |
| Engine displacement | 5965 cm3, 364.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm, 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 16.1 l, 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3036 kg, 6693.23 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4491 kg, 9900.96 lbs. |
| Max load | 1455 kg, 3207.73 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2162 l, 76.35 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6305 kg, 13900.15 lbs. |
| Length | 6563 mm, 258.39 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2045 mm, 80.51 in. |
| Height | 1980 mm, 77.95 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4258 mm, 167.64 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208 mm, 8.19 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 17.1 m, 56.1 ft. |
| 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/70 R18; 265/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 2500HD variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine, a staple in GM’s truck and SUV lineup for many years, is a cast-iron block, aluminum-head design known for its durability and relatively simple architecture. It utilizes a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system. The L96 produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 380 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm, providing ample power for towing and hauling. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The transmission paired with the L96 is the Hydra-Matic 6L80E, a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and reliability, and its gear ratios are optimized for both on-road driving and heavy-duty work.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6-speed automatic combination in the Sierra 2500HD delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the available diesel options or even the 6.2L gasoline engine. While lacking the sheer torque of the Duramax diesel, the 6.0L provides adequate power for most towing and hauling tasks. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, making it a comfortable choice for daily driving. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of engine braking as a diesel or the responsiveness of a manual transmission. The gear ratios are tuned for maximizing towing capacity, which can result in slightly higher engine speeds at highway cruising speeds. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 6.0L offers a more affordable entry point into the heavy-duty truck segment, but with a trade-off in overall performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 6.0L V8 automatic configuration was available across several trim levels of the Sierra 2500HD, including the base Work Truck (WT), SLE, and SLT. Standard features on the WT trim typically included air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The SLE trim added features like cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, and an upgraded audio system. The SLT trim, the most luxurious option, included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and additional convenience features. Optional extras available across all trims included a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 2500HD features a robust chassis designed to handle heavy loads. The front suspension utilizes a coil spring, double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring configuration. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The front brakes measure 350x40mm, while the rear brakes are 360x34mm. The braking system is adequately sized for the truck’s weight and intended use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0L V8 Sierra 2500HD was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its affordability, comfortable ride, and ample power for most tasks. However, it was often criticized for its fuel economy, which was significantly lower than that of the diesel options. Compared to the Duramax diesel, the 6.0L offered a lower purchase price but higher operating costs due to fuel consumption. The 6.2L V8 offered a performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 6.0L V8 automatic configuration appealed to buyers who prioritized affordability and comfort over outright performance and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 engine, paired with the 6L80E automatic transmission, has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain combination. While not as fuel-efficient as newer engine technologies, it remains a popular choice in the used truck market. These trucks are often sought after by buyers looking for a capable and affordable heavy-duty truck. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The GMTK2XX Sierra 2500HD with the 6.0L V8 represents a solid and dependable workhorse that continues to provide value to its owners today.
