2021 GMC Sierra 1500
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Overview
The GMC Sierra is the best-selling truck in the GMC family, and it's not hard to see why. Not only is it big and bold, it also holds bragging rights for the most powerful gasoline V8 in its class. Throw in a number of available options uncommon in its segment, including lane-departure warning and auto high-beam dimming, and the GMC Sierra 1500 quickly proves that it has enough brains to go along with its brawn.
Performance
With six available engine options, there’s a GMC Sierra 1500 for everyone, so whether your needs involve commuting or heavy lifting, the 2021 Sierra 1500 can fit your needs. The first option is a 2.7-liter turbocharged engine that produces up to 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque. This powerful, yet efficient powertrain is perfect for the driver that wants to drive their pickup truck every day, thanks to its convenience and fuel economy. If you need powerful torque numbers to haul and tow, the 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine might be the right option for you. With up to 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, this engine can help you get the job done. Another great option for a truck you plan to commute with is the 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V6 engine. It produces 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque, which is plenty of power to get you going but modest enough to keep your fuel costs down.
There are two more options for drivers who prefer the performance of a V8. You can choose a 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 that produces up to 383 pound-feet of torque and 355 horsepower. There are two different fuel-saving technologies available with this engine: Dynamic Fuel Management and Active Fuel Management™. No matter which one you choose, you’ll enjoy great efficiency with great power. For the power-hungry drivers, an available 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 engine offers up to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. These are numbers you’d expect from a heavier duty pickup, but the Sierra 1500 is the best of both worlds when equipped with this engine.
Drivers won't need to worry about rear-wheel slippage when hauling; in fact, the Eaton Locker automatic locking system for the rear differential locks down the rear wheels when it senses any slippage—the result is better traction, safety, and control.
The standard engine will provide a lot of power for light towing and general tasks, while the V8 is powerful with a transmission that's smooth and mild. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, with four-wheel drive available for drivers who want extra traction for heavy weather or off-road conditions. A feature available for the Denali line is Magnetic Ride Control, which monitors the conditions of the road and maintains a smooth ride by changing the suspension automatically. Needless to say, the Sierra's ride is luxurious and comfortable, with accurate steering and responsive handling—a good balance of feedback and weight.
Additional specs include a 12,100-pound towing capacity and a maximum payload of 2,240 pounds;* this strength means towing and hauling is easy with the transmission's tow/haul selection that maintains gears longer. A rear-view camera makes it simple to hook up a trailer.
Key Features
Six-Function Multipro™ Tailgate
When GMC crafted the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, the automaker knew that the drivers of this pickup truck would have a high demand for functionality and luxury. GMC made it a priority to add both to this model, starting with the available six-function Multipro™ Tailgate. This tailgate can function as a conventional tailgate by simply opening it like any other. When the tailgate is being used as a conventional tailgate, there is also a load stop, which makes it easy to keep objects inside the bed of the truck with the tailgate down. A section of the tailgate drops for easy access deeper into the truck bed. To easily climb into the truck bed, simply fold out the full-width step. An inner gate load stop keeps things in the bed with the tailgate partially down, and an inner gate work surface gives you a convenient place to get some work done while you're onsite at a job.
Design
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 has a well-equipped, quiet cabin, with comfortable seats and an easy-to-use entertainment system; the upper trim levels are even more elegant and luxurious. The voice-control system results in convenience, as well as safe driving. The rear seats fold down for additional storage.
There is ample storage in the cabin, and the Denali line features lots of chrome trim for an extra luxurious look. GMC's Sierra cabin is excessively quiet, keeping road noise out and providing a good environment for music or talking on a hands-free phone, and all buttons and knobs are prominent and large, making it easy to dial in the settings on the infotainment system.
Safety
As in the past, safety is a priority with GMC. The Sierra's safety features include driver airbags, side head airbags, side airbags, passenger airbags, rear head airbags, daytime running lights, front tow hooks, 4-wheel ABS, traction control, turn signal mirrors, Electronic Stability Control, and 4-wheel disc brakes.
For even more safety features on the road, you'll find that GMC has brought safety and technology together using cameras, sensors, and radar to protect you on the road. An available bed view camera allows you to keep an eye on anything in the bed and an available auxiliary trailer camera will give you an extra eye on your trailer. Lange Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alter, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front and Rear Park Assist, and Hitch Guidance are all available to make hauling, towing, and commuting safer than ever.
Bottom Line
The 2021 GMC Sierra continues the tradition of rock-solid reliability, smooth ride, high performance, and comfortable surroundings. With a number of trim levels, from a well-equipped SLE model to the luxurious Denali line, there is a Sierra 1500 for every budget and taste.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive of the GMC Sierra 1500, be sure to contact or visit Darrell Waltrip Buick GMC at 1440 Murfreesboro Rd, Franklin, TN 37067.
* Requires properly equipped vehicle. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
** Starting at price for 2021 Sierra 1500 SLE. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. See your GMC dealer for details.
Image Credit: GMC