2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500: Road Test

2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 

  • MSRP: $16,690 - $38,370
  • Invoice: $15,104 - $33,574
CG Rating

36

out of 100

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Our road test for the 2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 includes a full evaluation of the 2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 help you decide if a 2001 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
3 4 3.9

V6 struggles under heavy load; larger V8s furnish good power and are recommended. Automatic transmission is alert, smooth; Tow/Haul mode effective. Available all-surface 4WD and optional traction control for 2WD models- both class exclusives--are terrific advantages. GMC's Sierra C3 sport/luxury model with 6.0-liter V8 is a strong performer.

FUEL ECONOMY

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
2 1 2

Par for the class. In our tests, 13.7 mpg in 1500 4WD extended-cabs with 5.3 V8 and automatic. A 2WD 5.3 Sierra averaged 12.6 with more city driving. We have not had an opportunity to measure fuel economy with a 6.0-liter Crew Cab or 2500.

RIDE QUALITY

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
3 3 3.2

More compliant on 1500s than Ford F-150, though tail stutters over bumps with bed empty, as with any pickup. Harder-sprung 2500s ride more stiffly, but not markedly so. We've not had the opportunity to test the optional Ride Control Suspension under load.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
2 2 3

Good overall balance for a big truck--a match for any rival. Steering accurate, but not as precise as Ford's. Helped by a sport suspension and all-whell-drive system not offered on other models, the GMC-only sport model C3 has exceptional handling for a full-size pickup.

QUIETNESS

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
3 3 3.5

Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable and slightly lower than in comparable Fords.

CONTROLS

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
4 4 6

Gauge location, switchgear placement and feel are top-notch, though wipers deserve their own control rather than being activated by twisting the turn-signal lever. GM is alone in offering an engine-hour meter in addition to conventional odometer.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
5 5 7.7

Roomy, with supportive seats. Integrated safety belts move comfortably with seats. Regular-cab models allow good seat travel, seatback recline, and clearance to rear window.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
0 7 3.7

Extended-cabs have class-leading accommodations, with greater leg clearance and more comfortable seating than any rival extended-cab. Crew Cabs are even more spacious and comfortable, a good match for F 150 SuperCrew.

CARGO ROOM

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
1 3 4.1

Extended-cabs provide fine storage with rear bench seat folded up, though they lack bins, nets, protective flooring. Behind-seat room in regular-cab beats Ford, trails Dodge.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
8 9 7.5

GM pickups lead the pack in 4WD sophistication and traction-control convenience. Factor in new Crew Cabs, performance, comfort, design, and pricing, and Silverado and Sierra are easy Best Buys.

Total Score

2500 2WD reg. cab, 5.3 2500HD 4WD ext. cab, 6.0 Class Average
31 41 44.6

Total Score: 31

Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks

Low Score
31
Average Score
44
High Score
63

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