Introduction

The GMC Sierra offers handsome looks, a comfortable cab with a smooth ride, and all the capability of the Chevy Silverado. Sierra uses the same chassis and other hardware as the Chevy Silverado, so much of what can be said about one can be said of the other. 

The 2017 GMC Sierra carries over unchanged. This is the third generation of the Sierra, launched as a 2014 model. The Sierra 1500 lineup benefitted from updated technology and fresh styling for 2016. 

Sierra Denali models feature a 6.2-liter V6 with 8-speed automatic and a suspension with real-time damping. 

The GMC Sierra is a comfortable truck. Ingress and egress are easy. The dash features intuitive controls. The Sierra rides more smoothly than most of the other pickups. 

A wide range of body styles, powertrains and trim levels is available. Four-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive are available. 

The base 4.3-liter V6 is for light duty at sea level. The 5.3-liter V8 is rated to tow trailers weighing 11,000 pounds. The 6.2-liter delivers more torque and more towing power. 

The V6 and 5.3-liter V8 come standard with a 6-speed automatic. An 8-speed automatic comes with Sierra Denali, Sierra SLT, and any with the 6.2-liter engine. 

Lineup

2017 Sierra 1500 comes in Regular Cab, Double Cab, and Crew Cab. Crew Cabs are available with 5-foot, 8-inch or 6-foot, 6-inch beds. Double Cabs have the 6-foot, 6-inch bed. Regular Cabs offer 6-foot, 6-inch or 8-foot beds. 

Three engines are available: 4.3-liter V6, 5.3-liter V8, and 6.2-liter V8. Four-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive are offered. 

Sierra comes standard with vinyl upholstery, Sierra SLE upgrades to cloth. Sierra SLT is fitted with leather upholstery, Sierra Denali gets upgraded leather. 

Walkaround

The Sierra distinguishes itself with square shoulders, fender flares and a bulging hood. LEDs surround the headlights for a signature look at night. 

The tailgate is damped, so it doesn't slam down when opened, and a locking tailgate is available. A small step in the rear bumper makes it easy to look in the bed or pluck something out. LED lighting illuminates the bed. 

The Sierra Denali Ultimate features running boards that swing to the rear for access to the bed, a handy feature. 

Interior

The Sierra cabin feels upscale. It's comfortable. The cloth seats offer good support and comfort and the fabric is stain-resistant. Heating and ventilation are available, though we didn't think the ventilated seats offered as much support. 

The steering wheel tilts and telescopes, manually on lower models, electrically on upper lines. Power-adjustable pedals are available. Dual gloveboxes are provided. 

The standard Sierra instrument panel is more detailed than that of the Silverado. Sierra Denali models use a special display. Controls and displays are illuminated in blue with red backlighting that goes nicely with red pointers. The touchscreens work easily, and the Sierra is equipped with 4G LTE for a powerful Wi-Fi hotspot. 

Crew Cabs offer almost as much room in the rear seats as in the front, though headrests are best suited for smaller people. Most rear seats fold up for cargo or dogs. Double Cab rear seats are best for children. 

Driving Impression

The Sierra is smooth and quiet. Under way, with windows closed, we could hear the seat cooling fan, which is not loud. 

The engines can use Regular unleaded gas. Under light engine loads, only four of the cylinders are activated, the others coast, for improved fuel economy. 

Sierra 1500 2WD with 4.3-liter V6 is EPA-rated at 18/24 mpg City/Highway, or 20 mpg Combined. Ram with V6 is comparable. 

The 5.3-liter V8 is rated 15/21 mpg with 8-speed automatic and four-wheel drive. The 6.2-liter V8 matches it with 15/21 mpg. 

Summary

The GMC Sierra 1500 is a great choice among full-size pickups, with its smooth ride, good looks and impressive capability.