2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500: Road Test
2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 ▼
- MSRP: $17,988 - $43,385
- Invoice: $16,288 - $37,962
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Our road test for the 2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 help you decide if a 2002 GMC Sierra 1500/2500 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4.6 |
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 Denali sport/luxury model with 6.0-liter V8 is a strong performer.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2.1 |
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
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.5 |
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
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.1 |
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-wheel-drive system not offered on other models, the GMC-only sport model Denali has exceptional handling for a full-size pickup.
QUIETNESS
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4.3 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable and slightly lower than in comparable Fords.
CONTROLS
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
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)
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 8.5 |
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)
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 8 | 0 | 5 | 4.4 |
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
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 1 | 5 | 5 |
Extended-cabs provide fine storage with rear bench seat folded up, though they lack bins, nets, and protective flooring. Behind-seat room in regular-cab beats Ford, trails Dodge.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 6.7 |
GM pickups lead the pack in 4WD sophistication, and are unique in offering traction control with 2WD and the convenience of 4-wheel steering. Factor in competitive performance, comfort, design, and pricing, and Silverado and Sierra are easy Best Buys.
Total Score
| Sierra Denali | 1500HD crew cab 4WD | 2500 reg. cab 2WD, 5.3 | 2500 ext. cab 4WD, 6.0 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 60 | 41 | 50 | 48.9 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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