2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500: Road Test

2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500

  • MSRP: $19,567 - $28,049
  • Invoice: $17,121 - $24,543
CG Rating

37

out of 100

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Our road test for the 2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500 includes a full evaluation of the 2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500 help you decide if a 2000 GMC Classic Sierra 2500/3500 is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
5 6 4.9

We think that the 5.7-liter base V-8 is still one of the best engines in the full-size truck segment. It provides good acceleration, is quiet, and can handle most moderate towing/hauling tasks. The optional 7.4-liter V-8 has ample power for nearly any towing need and is just as refined. However, we doubt that most people will need the extra grunt all the time.

FUEL ECONOMY

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
1 1 1.7

The new engine is not only more potent but also more efficient: We averaged 22.1 mpg versus the 17.2 mpg we got in a test of a '97 model. Premium fuel is required.

RIDE QUALITY

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
2 2 3.4

The newer Ford F-250/350 Super Dutys have better ride quality than GM's full-size heavy-duty trucks, and the more you raise the payload capacity, the more bouncing you'll experience, especially with an empty cargo bed.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
3 3 3.4

In GM's favor, their trucks have standard 4-wheel antilock brakes; the F-250/350 comes with standard rear antilock brakes. Steering and visibility are fine.

QUIETNESS

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
3 3 4.4

Noise levels on the highway are surprisingly low for a full-size truck.

CONTROLS

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
6 6 6.6

The dashboard is well laid out, and the audio and climate controls are easy to use and are mounted high, so they're fairly easy to reach. Two cupholders pop out of the dash, but they're mounted out of easy reach for the driver. The center armrest available with the front bench seat contains a writing surface and lots of space inside.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
8 8 8

The front seats, while flat and unsupportive, provide good comfort on highway trips.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
0 0 2.4

As with all big pickups (sans the new light-duty Silverado and Sierra), the rear seat on extended-cab C/Ks is wide, but the seatback is uncomfortably vertical and there's little knee room.

CARGO ROOM

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
1 3 3.4

Interior storage is better than most of the competition except for the Dodge Ram.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
6 6 6.6

We rate the F-250/350 Super Dutys a step ahead of the Sierra Classic and its Chevy cousin due mostly to their more modern design and better road manners. But these old GM trucks have been improved in these regards of late, and we like the pulling power of their larger V8 engines. Look for replacements for the full-size GM pickups in model year 2001.

Total Score

C2500 reg. cab, 5.7 K2500 ext. cab, 7.4 Class Average
35 38 44.8

Total Score: 35

Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks

Low Score
35
Average Score
44
High Score
61

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