2004 GMC Sierra HD: Road Test

2004 GMC Sierra HD 

  • MSRP: $24,100 - $41,365
  • Invoice: $21,088 - $36,194
CG Rating

50

out of 100

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 2004 GMC Sierra HD includes a full evaluation of the 2004 GMC Sierra HD from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 GMC Sierra HD, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 GMC Sierra HD help you decide if a 2004 GMC Sierra HD is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
3 4.6

Adequate with base 6.0-liter V8, but 8.1-liter V8 and 6.6-liter turbodiesel are noticeably stronger. Six-speed manual transmission standard with 8.1 V8 and turbodiesel has 1st gear positioned in and down from normal pattern, leaving 2nd where 1st is normally located--which takes getting used to--though 1st is typically used only when hauling heavy loads.

FUEL ECONOMY

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
2 2.3

On a test 2500 Crew Cab with the Duramax diesel and automatic we averaged 14.2 mpg in all city driving. A 3500 Crew Cab with same powertrain averaged 13.7. Expect 10 mpg or less with gas V8s. Chevrolet recommends regular-grade fuel for gas engines.

RIDE QUALITY

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
3 3.9

Trucky, to be sure, with considerable bouncing with an empty bed, but not bruising over bumps. Perhaps the best ride among heavy-duty trucks.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
3 3.4

Too big and ponderous to be sporty, but there's little body lean in turns. Brakes suffer a somewhat spongy feel, but stop the truck with little fanfare.

QUIETNESS

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
2 4.5

Wind and road noise are surprisingly subdued. Diesel engine noise intrudes only under full throttle.

CONTROLS

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
7 6.6

Clear gauges, convenient controls--except for the wiper switch, which is awkwardly combined with the turn signal lever.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
9 8.3

Plenty of room, with comfortable seats. Ample seat travel even in regular cabs. High step-up, so entry/exit a chore.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
7 4.5

With sufficient leg space and a nicely reclined seatback, extended cabs offer best-in-class room and comfort, with true three-adult seating. Crew Cabs have even more space, rivaling Ford's version. In all, high step-up hinders entry/exit.

CARGO ROOM

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
7 4.7

Rear seat in extended cab folds up to create a good amount of storage space, though it lacks some of the features of competitors. Behind-seat room in regular cab beats Ford, trails Dodge.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
7 7.1

There's a lot to recommend these GM heavy-duty trucks, including strong engines, high hauling limits, comfortable rear-seat accommodations, and the availability of features such as a rear-seat entertainment system and GM's OnStar system. They should top your list.

Total Score

3500 Crew Cab, turbodiesel auto. Class Average
50 49.9

Total Score: 50

Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks

Low Score
38
Average Score
49
High Score
62

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