2004 GMC Sierra 1500: Road Test
Archived Review
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $19,545 -$41,905
- Invoice: $17,688 -$36,667
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to GMC Sierra
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 includes a full evaluation of the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 help you decide if a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 4.6 |
The V6 doesn't cut it, but V8s have good power for most situations. Automatic transmission is alert and fuss-free, and its Tow/Haul mode optimizes performance with heavy loads. Denali's muscular 325-hp V8 delivers quick standing starts, swift passing. We have not yet tested the new 1500-series Crew Cab.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2.3 |
Test 4WD extendeds with 5.3 V8 and automatic transmission averaged 13.7-16.2 mpg. Test Denalis averaged 13.3-14.5 mpg in city/highway mix. All engines use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.9 |
Generally softer than Ford F-150, though still stiff and bouncy on uneven surfaces. As with any pickup, the tail will stutter some over bumps with an empty bed.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 3.4 |
All models show fine overall balance, though steering feels rather lifeless. Traction control and Autotrac 4WD are both important aids on even moderately slick surfaces. Quadrasteer gives carlike maneuvering ease, especially in tight spots, and enhances high-speed tracking and towing stability.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable and slightly lower than in comparable F-150s.
CONTROLS
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
Clear instruments. Controls conveniently placed, movement pleasingly smooth. Windshield wipers operate via turn-signal lever; a separate control would be better. Only GM furnishes an engine-hour meter to supplement the usual odometer.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.3 |
Tall and wide, with lots of seat travel and backrest recline even in regular cabs. Supportive seats have integrated safety belts that are always comfortably positioned and easy to reach.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Good leg clearance and comfortably angled seatback make GM's extended cabs the most accommodating among full-size pickups. Crew Cab passenger compartment identical to 2500-series Crew Cab; it's spacious and comfortable, a good match for F-150 SuperCrew and better than Dodge Ram Quad Cab.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
Extended and crew cabs have ample inside storage with rear bench seat folded up.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 10 | 7 | 7.1 |
Sierra and its Silverado cousin boast top-flight powertrains, cabs and beds to fit most any need, hospitable interiors, and the advantage of 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. And no other big pickups offer 4-wheel steering. Factor in competitive pricing, and these Chevy and GMC trucks are easy Best Buys.
Total Score
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | 55 | 57 | 57 | 49.9 |
Total Score: 52
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
