The GMC Sierra 1500 aims to blend the strong payload and hauling figures of a full-size pickup with a premium SUV's style and opulence. While it shares its underpinnings with the popular Chevy Silverado, the Sierra is for those who want a bit more individuality -- and the option for more luxury in a truck.
What's New For 2015
Redesigned for 2014, the 2015 Sierra gains enhancements in the form of an eight-speed automatic for 6.2-liter models, magnetic ride control for the Denali, available spray-on bedliner for all models, Siri Eyes Free for the infotainment system and optional 4G LTE hotspot that's new across the GM lineup this year.
Choosing Your GMC Sierra 1500
Sierras come in regular, double and crew cabs, with a standard (6 1/2-foot), long (8-foot) or short (5 3/4-foot) bed for the crew cab only. Those cross-shopping the Sierra with the Silverado should note the GMC's higher price is reflected in slightly higher feature content. Many options, however, are bundled into packages that differ from what Chevrolet offers, so prices can rise a little more quickly. A 4.3-liter V6 is standard on SLE and SLT, but the 5.3-liter V8 is a very common option. Of consideration may be the 6.2-liter V8 offered on SLT and the plush Denali level, which boasts 420 horsepower and upgrades the transmission to eight speeds over the others' six.
Base
The base Sierra comes in all of the available body configurations, in either two or four-wheel drive. It also includes the V6, six-speed automatic, 40/20/40 front bench seat, AM/FM radio with 4.2-inch color display and USB/AUX inputs and four cargo tie-down hooks in the bed. The 5.3-liter V8 is an option. A Convenience Package adds power windows, remote keyless entry, 110-volt outlet, backup camera and heated power mirrors. A trailering package, spray-on bedliner, tonneau cover and off-road tires are among the other options.
SLE
Also available in every body/bed configuration, SLE adds a 17-inch alloy wheels, backup camera, power features, 8-inch color display for the radio, trip computer and an assisted tailgate opening. The Preferred Package includes a 10-way power driver's seat, fog lights and dual-zone automatic climate control. Driver Alert Package adds lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring, among other passive assists. The 5.3-liter V8, trailering package, bedliner and navigation are also options. The Off-Road suspension package adds a bigger front stabilizer bar and bigger gas-charged shocks, as well as a transfer case shield and hill descent control.
SLT
Adding more luxury features, SLT comes in double or crew cab format with a standard 5.3-liter V8. It also gets leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-locking rear differential, trailering package, 18-inch alloy wheels and a 110-volt outlet. An upgraded towing package is available, as well as the 6.2-liter V8 and the Off-Road Suspension Package.
Denali
The top-trim Denali comes as a crew cab only, loaded up with a special grille and light treatment, 20-inch chrome wheels, magnetic ride control, wood accents, heated steering wheel and Bose audio system with navigation. The 6.2-liter V8 is available, as is four-wheel drive, the Driver Alert package and 22-inch wheels.
Sierras have better equipment and a slightly better warranty than what's available from Chevy, but otherwise they're the same. Check the discounts, because a Sierra that's the same price or less than a Silverado could be the better value. That said, the Denali with its new eight-speed automatic may be among the most luxurious pickups ever -- and worth the splurge.