2006 GMC Sierra 1500: Road Test
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2006 GMC Sierra 1500 ▼
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- MSRP: $15,840 -$38,755
- Invoice: $14,969 -$35,479
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Our road test for the 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 GMC Sierra 1500, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 help you decide if a 2006 GMC Sierra 1500 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 4.8 |
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. Hybrid powertrain does not affect acceleration; its engine-restart feature suffers a short delay when driving away from a stop.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | 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. GMC says Hybrid's engine-shutoff feature improves fuel economy by 10 percent vs. conventional V8 counterpart.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
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 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | 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.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are unobjectionable, and rival comparable F-150s for overall quietness.
CONTROLS
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | 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. Engine-hour meter supplements the usual odometer.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | 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 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 5 | 5 | 8 | 5 |
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 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | 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 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 10 | 7 | 6.7 |
Sierra and sibling Chevrolet 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. Competitive pricing ices this Best Buy selection, with Sierra Denali a special confection for well-heeled luxury-oriented power lovers.
Total Score
| 2WD V6 SL reg. cab | 2WD 4.8 V8 SL ext. cab | 4WD 5.3 V8 SLT ext. cab | Denali Crew Cab | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 41 | 56 | 60 | 60 | 50.5 |
Total Score: 54
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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