2010 GMC Sierra 1500: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 GMC Sierra was slated to receive a new turbodiesel V8 engine, but its introduction has been indefinitely delayed due to GM's precarious financial position. Otherwise, the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 lineup sees a few changes. This large pickup truck continues to offer regular-, extended-, and crew-cab body styles. It shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Extended cabs retain their rear-hinged back doors that don't open independently of the fronts. Regular cabs continue to seat up to three passengers, while extendeds and crews seat up to six. Three bed lengths are available. The 5.8-foot short bed is offered only on the crew cab; 6.6- and 8.0-foot beds are offered on the regular and extended cabs.

Available engines, depending on cab and bed configuration, are as follows: a 195-hp 4.3-liter V6; 302-hp 4.8-liter V8; 315-hp 5.3-liter V8; and 403-hp 6.2-liter V8. For 2010, all conventional Sierra V8 engines are capable of running on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. V6 and 4.8 V8 models use a 4-speed automatic transmission. All 5.3 and 6.2 versions use a 6-speed automatic. Some rear-drive crew-cab Sierras with the 5.3-liter V8 and 6-speed automatic can be equipped as the XFE, which stands for Xtra Fuel Economy. XFE versions have specific wheels and tires, along with other mechanical and aerodynamic treatments. GM claims an increase in fuel economy of up to 7 percent over non-XFE Sierras. Unique to the Sierra lineup is the luxury-themed Denali crew cab. Denali uses the 6.2-liter V8 and has specific exterior and interior trim. Maximum towing capacity is 10,700 pounds.

The 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid has a 6.0-liter V8 engine that pairs with an electric motor for 332 hp total. It can run on one or both of its power sources, depending on driving demands, and requires no plug-in charging. The Hybrid has a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and a maximum towing capacity of 6100 lb.

Rear-wheel drive is standard across the board. Two 4-wheel-drive systems are offered: A part-time setup that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, and GM's Autotrac that can. Both include a low-range gear for off-roading. All-wheel is available on the Denali. Sierra offers several different suspensions. The Z83 and Z85 setups are designed for ride comfort. The Z60 is a street performance suspension, and the Z71 is for off-road use. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Available features include a navigation system, remote engine start, a wireless cell-phone link, and "luxury inspired" interior trim. This report is based on evaluations of the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicles 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 half-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider three-quarter- or one-ton models.

Our Best Buys are the Dodge Ram 1500 and Ford F-150. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra. New or significantly redesigned models in the class include the Dodge Ram 2500/3500 and Toyota Tundra.