The GMC Sierra 3500HD III, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2011 to 2014, represented GMC’s heavy-duty pickup truck offering within the GMT900 platform generation. This variant, configured with a Regular Cab, Long Box, a 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower, a four-wheel-drive system, and a single rear wheel (SRW) setup paired with an automatic transmission, occupied a significant position in the American truck market. It catered to buyers needing substantial towing and payload capacity for work or recreational purposes, bridging the gap between the lighter-duty Sierra 1500 and the even more capable Sierra 4500HD.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 3500HD |
| Generation | Sierra 3500HD III (GMT900, facelift 2011) Regular Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD SRW Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 130.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.3 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 | 5967 cm3, 364.13 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 | 15.5 l, 16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2763 kg, 6091.37 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 4854 kg, 10701.24 lbs. |
| Max load | 2091 kg, 4609.87 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2138 l, 75.5 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg, 13000.66 lbs. |
| Length | 5715 mm, 225 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2032 mm, 80 in. |
| Height | 1966 mm, 77.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3369 mm, 132.64 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218 mm, 8.58 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.7 m, 44.95 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 | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 373×34 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 3500HD variant lies the Vortec L96 engine, a 6.0-liter (364 cubic inches) V8. This engine is a member of the Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The L96 utilizes a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. It features a 9.6:1 compression ratio and employs multi-port fuel injection for precise fuel delivery. The overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain, while not as sophisticated as overhead cam designs, is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) was incorporated to improve fuel efficiency and low-end torque. The engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 515 Nm (379.84 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission offered smooth shifting and helped optimize the engine’s powerband for both towing and everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6L80E automatic combination in the Sierra 3500HD delivered a capable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The emphasis was clearly on work capability. Acceleration was adequate for daily driving, but the truck’s substantial weight (2763 kg / 6091.37 lbs) limited its responsiveness. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for towing, providing ample low-end torque for hauling heavy loads. Compared to the available Duramax diesel engine, the 6.0L V8 offered less torque and lower fuel economy, but it was significantly less expensive to purchase and maintain. Compared to a manual transmission equipped version, the automatic offered convenience, but at the cost of some driver control and potentially slightly reduced fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2011-2014 Sierra 3500HD with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. The Regular Cab configuration meant a focus on functionality over luxury, with a spartan interior featuring vinyl or cloth upholstery. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, power seats, a navigation system, and various towing packages. Trim levels, such as Work Truck (WT), SLE, and LT, offered progressively more features and refinements. The WT trim was the most basic, geared towards commercial use, while the LT trim offered a more comfortable and well-equipped interior.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 3500HD’s chassis was designed for heavy-duty use. It featured a fully boxed frame for increased rigidity and durability. The front suspension utilized an independent torsion bar setup with double wishbones, providing a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, optimized for load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The front brakes measured 355×40 mm, while the rear brakes were 373×34 mm. The robust braking system was essential for safely stopping the truck and its potential heavy loads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0L V8-powered Sierra 3500HD received generally positive reviews for its capability and value. Critics acknowledged its strong towing capacity and relatively affordable price point compared to diesel-powered alternatives. However, the V8’s fuel economy was a common criticism, especially when compared to the Duramax diesel. In terms of reliability, the L96 engine was generally considered dependable, although some owners reported issues with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which deactivated cylinders under light load to improve fuel economy. Compared to the Ford Super Duty and Ram 3500, the Sierra 3500HD offered a competitive combination of features, capability, and price.
Legacy
The 2011-2014 GMC Sierra 3500HD with the 6.0L V8 and automatic transmission remains a popular choice in the used truck market. Its robust construction and proven powertrain make it a reliable workhorse for those needing substantial towing and payload capacity. While fuel economy isn’t its strong suit, its lower purchase price and simpler maintenance requirements compared to diesel models continue to appeal to many buyers. The L96 engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be a durable and long-lasting powerplant, ensuring that these trucks continue to provide years of service.
