2003 GMC Sierra HD: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Sierra HDs share a restyled front end with their lighter-duty Sierra 1500/2500 siblings, and also add optional satellite radio and rear-seat entertainment system for 2003. This report covers mainstay 3/4-ton 2500HD and 1-ton 3500 pickups, though chassis-cab and chassis cutaway models are also offered. Sierra HD is similar to Chevrolet's Silverado HD.

Both HD Sierra series are available with rear-wheel drive or 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. An electronic-shift transfer case (replacing a manual lever) is optional on SLE and SLT models. Both 2500HD and 3500 come in a choice of regular cab, an extended cab with rear-hinged back half-doors, and a Crew Cab with four full-size front-hinged doors. All can be ordered with front bucket seats or a 40/20/40 split bench. The extended and Crew Cab include a three-person rear bench. The 3500s come only with an eight-foot cargo box; 2500HDs offer a 6.5-foot box as well. All 3500s have dual rear wheels on each side.

All models have standard dual dashboard airbags and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes; some offer GM's OnStar assistance system. Base engine is a 6.0-liter V8. Optional are an 8.1-liter V8 and 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8. The base engine teams with 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic with Tow/Haul mode. The two larger engines have a 6-speed manual or optional Allison 5-speed automatic with Engine Grade Braking, an electronic feature that makes an automatic downshift when descending steep slopes. Sierra HDs offer a PRO Professional Package that includes a special console/storage bin, electric warmer/cooler for food and beverages, and rubber floor covering. Newly optional on SLE and SLT models for '03 are satellite radio, a rear-seat entertainment system for Crew Cabs, and power-extending camper mirrors.

COMPETITION

With the advent of crossover vehicles, this 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 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 and convenient 4-wheel steering.

Big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models in most aspects but can't match their ride comfort or civility. We also like the expensive Toyota Tundra. What it lacks in brute strength, it more than makes up for with refined road manners.