The GMC Sierra 3500HD IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Long Box, equipped with the 6.0-liter V8 engine producing 360 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel drive (4WD) dual rear wheel (DRW) automatic transmission, was a key offering in GMC’s heavy-duty pickup truck lineup from the 2015 to 2019 model years. This variant represented a balance between capability and everyday usability, targeting buyers needing substantial towing and payload capacity without necessarily opting for the highest-output diesel engines. It occupied a mid-to-upper tier position within the Sierra 3500HD range, offering a more accessible entry point into the DRW segment compared to the more expensive diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 3500HD |
| Generation | Sierra 3500HD IV (GMTK2XX) Crew Cab Long Box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.0 V8 (360 Hp) 4WD DRW 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 | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156.5 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 | 16.1 l, 17.01 US qt | 14.17 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 3291 kg, 7255.41 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 5908 kg, 13024.91 lbs. |
| Max load | 2617 kg, 5769.5 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%) | 6078 kg, 13399.7 lbs. |
| Length | 6563 mm, 258.39 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2438 mm, 95.98 in. |
| Height | 1975 mm, 77.76 in. |
| Wheelbase | 4259 mm, 167.68 in. |
| Front track | 1748 mm, 68.82 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1709 mm, 67.28 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 210 mm, 8.27 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 17 m, 55.77 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, 355×40 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×40 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Tires size | 235/80 R17; 265/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 3500HD variant lies the Vortec L96 6.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is a member of the Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. It features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. The L96 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 engine produces 360 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 380 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm. The Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine. This transmission is known for its durability and smooth shifting characteristics, and its gear ratios are optimized for towing and hauling. The 4WD system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive high, and four-wheel drive low.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.0L V8 and 6L90 automatic combination in the Sierra 3500HD provides a noticeable step up in performance compared to smaller engine options. While not as powerful as the Duramax diesel, it delivers ample torque for most towing and hauling tasks. The automatic transmission provides smooth and predictable shifts, making it easy to manage the truck’s power. However, the gasoline engine requires more frequent downshifts when climbing steep grades or carrying heavy loads compared to the diesel. The gear ratios in the 6L90 are well-suited for towing, providing a good balance between acceleration and fuel economy. The DRW configuration enhances stability when towing heavy trailers, and the 4WD system provides excellent traction in challenging conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Long Box configuration offered a spacious interior with seating for five passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and SLT, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on providing a comfortable and practical work environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 3500HD features a heavy-duty chassis designed to withstand the stresses of towing and hauling. The front suspension utilizes coil springs and a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a rigid axle with leaf springs. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The DRW configuration provides increased stability and braking performance when towing heavy loads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.0L V8-powered Sierra 3500HD received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its ample power and smooth-shifting automatic transmission. However, it was often noted that the gasoline engine’s fuel economy was significantly lower than that of the Duramax diesel. Compared to the diesel variants, the 6.0L V8 offered a lower initial purchase price and simpler maintenance requirements. It appealed to buyers who prioritized affordability and ease of maintenance over maximum towing capacity and fuel efficiency. The 6.0L engine was considered a good option for those who didn’t require the extreme capabilities of the diesel but still needed a capable heavy-duty truck.
Legacy
The Vortec L96 6.0L V8 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While not as fuel-efficient as modern engines, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a robust and relatively simple engine. The 6L90 automatic transmission is also known for its durability. In the used car market, Sierra 3500HD models equipped with this powertrain are generally well-regarded for their reliability and capability. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, is essential to ensure the long-term health of this powertrain. These trucks continue to be a viable option for those needing a capable and affordable heavy-duty pickup.
