2005 GMC Sierra 1500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A new flagship body style, more available V8 power, and limited-edition gas-electric hybrid version highlight 2005 for Sierra. This is GMC's version of the Chevrolet Silverado. This report covers the half-ton Sierra 1500 regular-, extended-, and Crew Cab models. Extendeds have rear-hinged back doors that don't open independently of the fronts. Crew Cabs have four conventional side doors. Both include a 3-person rear bench seat and offer a front bench or buckets. Regulars and extendeds offer 6.6- and 8.0-ft Wideside cargo beds or a 6.6-ft Sportside flare-fender box. Crew Cabs use a 5.8-ft Wideside.

Sierra offers Work, base, SLE, and SLT models, plus the top-line Sierra Denali. For '05, Denali is a Crew Cab instead of an extended cab. It comes with all-wheel drive that lacks low-range gearing. Other Sierras offer rear-wheel drive with optional traction control or two 4WD systems: a basic system that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, or GM's Autotrac that can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both systems include low-range gearing.

Regulars come with a 4.3-liter V6 and offer 4.8- and 5.3-liter V8 options. Extendeds have standard V8s with V6 available. The 5.3 is standard for Crew Cabs. Joining the 295-hp 5.3 for '05 is a high-output version with 310 hp; it's available for short-bed 4WD extendeds. Denali uses a 6.0 with 345 hp, a 20 hp increase from 2004. Manual transmission is standard on V6 and 4.8 V8 2WD regular cabs. Automatic transmission is optional on those Sierras and standard on all other versions.

Midyear, a Performance Edition package became available for short-bed 2WD LS/LT extended-cab models. The option includes the Heavy-Duty Trailering package, the Denali 6.0 V8, and 20-inch wheels and tires.

The Sierra hybrid system is available in select states (see price list). It's available on 2WD and 4WD short-bed extended cabs with the 5.3 V8. As in hybrid cars, the gas engine shuts off at stoplights to save fuel, and an electric motor restarts the engine when the gas pedal is pushed. Unlike most hybrids, the electric motor does not help propel the vehicle. The system does include a unique feature aimed at commercial users and picnic tailgaters: a generator that provides 120-volt power for running electrical accessories.

Optional on nonhybrid 4WD SLE and SLT short-bed extendeds is GM's Quadrasteer 4-wheel steering. Quadrasteer tightens the turning radius at low speeds and is designed to improve stability at higher speeds or when towing. All Sierras have antilock brakes. Denalis, along with Performance Edition-, Quadrasteer-, and hybrid-equipped models, have 4-wheel disc brakes. All other Sierras for '05 have front-disc/rear-drum brakes. The optional ZX3 suspension offers two levels of shock-absorber firmness to suit road or load. Hybrid versions have 16-inch wheels; all other models have 17s vs. 16s for '05. Denali offers optional 20-inch chrome alloy wheels.

Also in the 1500 line is the three-quarter-ton 1500HD Crew Cab. The 1500HD has a 300-hp 6.0-liter V8 with a 4-speed automatic transmission and comes in SLE and SLT trim.

OnStar assistance is standard for Denali and SLTs, optional on SLEs. Satellite radio is available, and Crew Cabs offer rear DVD entertainment. The Denali features special interior and exterior appointments, including leather upholstery, chrome grille, and side steps.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty ½-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider ¾- or 1-ton models.

Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.