2005 GMC Sierra 1500: Road Test
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2005 GMC Sierra 1500 ▼
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- MSRP: $18,190 -$41,735
- Invoice: $16,462 -$36,518
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Our road test for the 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 includes a full evaluation of the 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 GMC Sierra 1500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 help you decide if a 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 4.7 |
V8s have good power for most situations. The V6 doesn't cut it. Automatic transmission is alert and fuss free, and its Tow/Haul mode optimizes performance with heavy loads. Models with the Performance Edition package and similarly powered Sierra Denali deliver quick standing starts and impressive passing power. Hybrid powertrain does not affect acceleration; its engine-restart feature suffers a short delay when driving away from a stop.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab w/Quadrasteer | 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 Denali averaged 12.5 mpg. All engines use regular-grade fuel, and GMC says Hybrid's engine-shutoff feature improves fuel economy by 10 percent vs. conventional V8 counterpart.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
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 w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 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 w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.3 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable and lower than in comparable Dodge Rams.
CONTROLS
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
Clear gauges, mostly convenient controls with smooth, "quality" feel. Windshield wipers operate from 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 w/Quadrasteer | 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 w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 4.8 |
Good leg clearance and comfortably angled seatback make GM's extended cabs the most accommodating among large pickups. Crew Cab rear seat even more 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 w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 4.9 |
Extendeds and Crew Cabs have ample inside storage with rear bench seat folded.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 10 | 7 | 7.1 |
Sierra and sibling Silverado boast top-flight powertrains, models 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. Competitive pricing ices the cake, with Sierra Denali a special confection for well-heeled luxury-oriented power lovers. Our verdict: Best Buy.
Total Score
| 2WD V6 Base reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 Base ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab w/Quadrasteer | Sierra Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 41 | 56 | 60 | 58 | 50.3 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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