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2000 GMC Sierra 1500 Full Review
Date Published: 4/08/08
2000 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
A standard fourth door for extended-cab models is Sierra's big news for 2000. GMC's half-ton full-size pickup comes in SL, SLE, and top-line SLT trim levels. Like Chevy's near-identical Silverado 1500, Sierra offers regular and extended cabs with 6.5- or 8.1-foot Wideside cargo beds. A factory-installed tonneau cover is a new Wideside-bed option. A 6.5-foot flare-fender Sportside bed is also available. The driver-side rear door was a $330 option and supplemented a standard passenger-side rear door. The driver-side door became standard at midyear with a corresponding $330 increase in extended-cab base prices. These doors are hinged at the back and do not open independently of the front doors.

A 4.3-liter V6 is the base engine, with available V8s of 4.8 and 5.3 liters. Both V8s gain 15 horsepower for 2000. Manual and automatic transmissions continue, the latter with a "Tow/Haul" mode that reduces shifting under heavy loads. Maximum towing capacity increases for 2000 by 700 pounds, to 11,200 pounds. Sierra's optional Autotrac 4-wheel drive can be used on dry pavement, automatically engaging the front axle when rear-wheel slip is detected. It also has locked-in 4WD high and low ranges. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Sierra's performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Silverados.
Competition
With the advent of crossover vehicles the segment has become less defined. Once the domain of work-related heavy-duty pickups, buyers are now demanding that their full-size trucks do double duty. Our Best Buys remain the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra. These trucks offer a wide range of powertrain combinations, plenty of luxury accommodations, and ample towing power--though the GM twins are the only ones to offer full-time 4WD.

The big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models feature for feature but can't match their ride comfort or civility.
News
Details on the entire 2001 Sierra line weren't available for this report, but GMC has confirmed that it will offer a new upscale model. Called Sierra C3, it's a half-ton extended-cab with the same powertrain as the revised '01 Yukon Denali/XL Denali, which means a 6.0-liter Vortec V8, 4-speed automatic transmission, and a full-time all-wheel-drive system with no separate transfer case or low-range gears. The 6.0-liter V8, which has so far been available only in heavier-duty Sierra models, makes 325 horsepower; the most power available in other half-tons is 285 from a 5.3-liter V8. Other no-cost C3 features include 17-inch alloy wheels with Michelin LTX tires, larger 4-wheel antilock disc brakes, heavy-duty towing package with 7-pin trailer harness and integrated hitch receiver, heated door mirrors with built-in "puddle" lamps, fog lamps, and a few styling touches that may also show up on other 2001 Sierras. Additional C3 standards inside include heated power front buckets with electric lumbar and bolster adjustments and driver-side position memory; 2-tone leather upholstery; a fold-down 3-place rear bench seat; 6-speaker audio with 6-disc in-dash CD changer, steering-wheel controls, and separate rear-seat controls; trip computer; compass and outside temperature displays; HomeLink remote door opener; GM's OnStar communications/assistance system, and child-seat anchors front and rear. Exterior colors are limited to pewter metallic, onyx black and polo green metallic. GMC's initial press announcement doesn't specify the number of doors, but we assume the C3 will be available in the standard 3-door cab configuration and optional 4-door version as other Sierra 1500s.
2000 GMC Sierra 1500 Road Test
Pros Cons
Optional full-time 4WD Fuel economy
Acceleration (V8s) Ride
Instruments/controls Rear-seat entry/exit (extended cab)
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
4 5 6 4.9

We like the 5.3-liter V8 best, but the 4.8 handles most light-duty chores just fine.
Fuel Economy

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
2 2 2 1.7

Fuel economy isn't so fine. We averaged just 13.6 mpg with an automatic 5.3-liter extended-cab 4x4.
Ride Quality

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
3 4 4 3.4

Ride quality is good for a big pickup, but the usual empty-bed tail jitter can occur over bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
2 3 4 3.4

The automatic's Tow/Haul mode and Sierra's optional adjustable suspension are welcome features, however, since 70 percent of big-pickup buyers haul or tow at some point. Brakes offer a firm feel and progressive pedal action, while steering is precise despite too much power assist.
Quietness

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
5 5 5 4.4

Road, wind, and engine noise are not objectionable.
Controls

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
7 7 7 6.6

Sierra follows Silverado with gauges and controls that are best in class for design, feel, and location. We also like the engine-hour meter that supplements the usual mileage odometer.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
7 9 9 8

All models have roomy and supportive front seats with handy integrated safety belts that are always comfortably positioned. However, drivers with thick forearms will have trouble squeezing between the door panel and seat to reach the adjustment controls.
Room/Comfort (rear)

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
0 5 5 2.4

GM's big extendeds also soundly trounce rivals for rear leg clearance and boast a contoured rear bench seat with reclined backrest that provides almost sedanlike comfort.
Cargo Room

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
1 5 5 3.4

Interior storage is class leading and the rear compartment is as large an any in the full-size class.
Value within Class

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
6 7 7 6.6

There's no more comfortable extended-cab pickup than the new Silverado or Sierra. Ford, Dodge, and Toyota field formidable rivals, however, giving buyers of full-size trucks a wide range of fine choices.
Total Score

SL reg. cab 2WD, V6 SL ext. cab 2WD, 4.8 V8 SLT ext. cab 4WD, 5.3 V8 Class Average
37 52 54 44.8
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks

Low Score
35
Average Score
44
High Score
61
2000 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/19/2000
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
2WD SL regular cab, short bed $16,300 $14,752 $690
2WD SL regular cab, long bed $16,600 $15,023 $690
4WD SL regular cab, short bed $19,377 $17,536 $690
4WD SL regular cab, long bed $19,677 $17,808 $690
2WD SL extended cab, short bed $22,589 $19,765 $690
2WD SL extended cab, long bed $22,889 $20,028 $690
4WD SL extended cab, short bed $25,651 $22,445 $690
4WD SL extended cab, long bed $25,951 $22,707 $690
2WD SLE regular cab, short bed $20,014 $17,512 $690
2WD SLE regular cab, long bed $20,314 $17,775 $690
4WD SLE regular cab, short bed $23,076 $20,192 $690
4WD SLE regular cab, long bed $23,376 $20,454 $690
2WD SLE extended cab, short bed $24,979 $21,857 $690
2WD SLE extended cab, long bed $25,279 $22,119 $690
2WD SLT extended cab, short bed $24,979 $21,857 $690
2WD SLT extended cab, long bed $25,279 $22,119 $690
4WD SLE extended cab, short bed $28,041 $24,536 $690
4WD SLE extended cab, long bed $28,341 $24,798 $690
4WD SLT extended cab, short bed $28,041 $24,536 $690
4WD SLT extended cab, long bed $28,341 $24,798 $690
Price note: SLT models require a Marketing Option Pkg.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
SL regular cab
Powertrain
4.3-liter V6 engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth split bench seat, AM/FM radio, digital clock, cupholders, tachometer, engine hour meter, passenger-side visor mirror, cargo box light, intermittent wipers, automatic headlights, carpeting, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, dual outside mirrors, chrome front bumper, painted rear step bumper, Wideside body, 7-lead trailering harness.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Front tow hooks, full-size spare tire, 235/75R16 tires, 4WD models add: part-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, 245/75R16 tires.
SL extended cab adds to SL regular cab:
Powertrain
4.8-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Rear-hinged rear doors, reclining front seat, folding rear bench seat, swing-out rear quarter windows.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4WD models add: part-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, 245/75R16 tires.
SLE regular cab adds to SL regular cab:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, AM/FM/CD player, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Chrome rear bumper.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Chrome steel wheels, 4WD models add: part-time 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, 245/75R16 tires.
SLE extended cab/SLT adds to SLE regular cab:
Powertrain
4.8-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Rear-hinged rear doors, reclining front seat, folding rear bench seat, swing out rear quarter windows.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
4WD models add: part-time 4-wheel drive (SLE), Autotrac full-time 4-wheel drive (SLT), 2-speed transfer case, 245/75R16 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Marketing Option Pkg.
SL
$625
$538
Chrome grill surround, chrome rear step bumper, bodyside moldings, painted alloy wheels.
Commercial Group
SL regular cab w/cloth seat
$995
$856
SL extended cab w/cloth seat (credit)
$-100
$-86
SL regular cab w/vinyl seat
$713
$613
SL extended cab w/vinyl seat (credit)
$-382
$-329
4-speed automatic transmission (regular cab), cloth or vinyl split bench seat. Deletes carpeting, seat recliners (extended cab), armrests, map pockets.
Convenience Group
SL regular cab
$1,397
$1,201
SL extended cab
$1,377
$1,184
Air conditioning, cruise control, power door locks, AM/FM/cassette.
Convenience Plus Group
4WD SLE
$1,030
$886
Dual power front seats, automatic day/night rearview mirror, active transfer case (4WD).
Marketing Option Pkg. 1SD
2WD SLT
$1,750
$1,505
4WD SLT
$2,125
$1,828
Leather upholstery, 6-way power front seats, AM/FM/CD player, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside temperature indicator, active transfer case (4WD), 255/70R16 tires (2WD), alloy wheels.
Comfort Group
SLT
$775
$667
Heated bucket seats, AM/FM/cassette/CD player.
Snow Plow Prep Pkg.
4WD regular cab short bed w/automatic transmission
$285
$245
4WD regular cab short bed w/manual transmission or Trailering Equipment
$190
$163
Larger front springs, heavy-duty automatic transmission cooler, heavy-duty alternator, electrical supply/connections and mounting equipment, emergency lights.
Off-Road Chassis Pkg.
4WD SLE
$395
$340
Includes larger springs and shock absorbers, jounce bumpers, stabilizer bars, high capacity air cleaner. Requires 265/R16 all-terrain tires or LT245/75R16C on/off-road tires.
Firm Ride/Heavy Duty Suspension Pkg.
SLT
$0
$0
Third door, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, AM/FM/CD player, tachometer, deep-tinted glass, alloy wheels. NA with 4.3-liter engine, bucket seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, fog lights.
Special Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$285
$245
Trailer hitch platform, 7-wire trailering harness, heavy-duty auxiliary transmission oil cooler. Requires 4.8-liter or 5.3-liter engines and automatic transmission, Firm Ride/Heavy Duty Suspension.
Powertrain
4.3-liter V6 engine
regular cab
$0
$0
4.8-liter V8 engine
regular cab
$695
$598
5.3-liter V8 engine
regular cab
$1,495
$1,286
extended cab
$800
$688
Requires automatic transmission.
5-speed manual transmission
regular cab
$0
$0
Requires 4.3-liter V6 or 4.8-liter V8.
4-speed automatic transmission
regular cab
$1,095
$942
Locking differential
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$285
$245
Autotrac full-time 4WD
4WD SLE
$375
$323
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning
SL
$825
$710
AM/FM/cassette
SL regular cab
$170
$146
SL extended cab
$150
$129
AM/FM/cassette/CD player
SLE/SLT extended cab
$100
$86
Requires bucket seats. 4WD SLE requires active transfer case.
Cellular telephone prep
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$50
$43
Bucket seats
SLE, SLT
$425
$366
Includes floor and overhead consoles.
6-way power front seats
SLE
$480
$413
Rear defogger
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$175
$151
NA w/sliding rear window. SL requires air conditioning.
Automatic day/night rearview mirror
SLE
$175
$151
Includes compass and outside temperature indicator.
Heated power mirrors
SLE, SLT
$42
$36
Requires rear defogger.
Cruise control
SL
$240
$206
Power door locks
SL
$162
$139
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sportside body
SL short bed
$895
$770
SLE/SLT short bed
$795
$684
SL includes chrome rear step bumper.
Chrome rear step bumper
SL
$100
$86
Tonneau cover
Wideside
$240
$206
Fog lights
SLE, SLT
$140
$120
Fender flares
4WD
$180
$155
High visibility extended mirrors
SL
$60
$52
SLE, SLT (credit)
$-38
$-33
Deep-tinted glass
regular cab
$50
$43
extended cab
$107
$92
Requires sliding rear window or rear defogger.
Sliding rear window
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$125
$108
Two-tone paint
SLE, SLT
$250
$215
Camper wiring provisions
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$25
$22
Engine block heater
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$35
$30
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Skid plates
4WD
$95
$82
Heavy-duty transmission oil cooler
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$95
$82
Requires automatic transmission.
Heavy-duty air filter
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$25
$22
Trailer wiring provision
SL extended cab, SL regular cab, SLE extended cab/SLT, SLE regular cab
$25
$22
Requires Trailering PKg.
Ride Control Suspension Pkg.
2WD SLE
$420
$361
2WD SLT
$325
$280
Alloy wheels
SLE
$110
$95
SL
$310
$267
Chrome steel wheels
SL
$0
$0
Requires Marketing Option Pkg.
235/75R16 white-letter tires
2WD SL, 2WD SLE
$125
$108
245/75R16 white-letter tires
4WD
$125
$108
245/75R16 all-terrain tires
4WD
$105
$90
245/75R16 all-terrain white-letter tires
4WD
$230
$198
LT245/75R16 on/off-road tires
4WD
$161
$139
LT245/75R16 on/off-road white-letter tires
4WD
$286
$246
255/75R16 tires
2WD SL, 2WD SLE
$170
$146
255/75R16 white-letter tires
2WD SL, 2WD SLE
$295
$254
265/75R16 all-terrain tires
SLE/SLT 4WD
$240
$206
265/75R16 all-terrain white-letter tires
SLE/SLT 4WD
$365
$314
2000 GMC Sierra 1500 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification GMC Sierra 1500 reg. cab short bed GMC Sierra 1500 reg. cab long bed GMC Sierra 1500 ext. cab short bed GMC Sierra 1500 ext. cab long bed
Wheelbase, in. 119.0 133.0 143.5 157.5
Overall Length, in. 203.2 222.1 227.5 246.6
Overall Width, in. 78.5 78.5 78.5 78.5
Overall Height, in. 71.2 71.0 71.2 70.8
Curb Weight, lbs. 3956 4066 4289 4511
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. -- -- -- --
Standard Payload, lbs. 2145 2334 1911 1689
Fuel Capacity, gals. 26.0 34.0 26.0 34.0
Seating Capacity 3 3 6 6
Front Head Room, in. 41.0 41.0 41.0 41.0
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3 41.3 41.3 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. -- -- 38.4 38.4
Max. Rear