Intro: The styling of GMC's full-size pickup, the Sierra 1500, is set-off by a bold, horizontal front grille flanked by stacked dual headlight clusters, and pronounced wheel openings. Six body configurations are available including single, extended, and crew cabs as well as multiple bed lengths.
Wheel and tire options start with 17-inch painted steel, equipped with all season black-wall radials on the base model, all the way up to 20-inch chrome aluminum wheels, optional on the uprated Denali trim.
Performance: There are four engine choices for the 2011 Sierra 1500, ranging from a 4.3-liter V6 that generates 195 horsepower and 260 pound feet of torque, all the way up to a 6.2-liter Vortec V8, putting out 403 horsepower and 417 pound feet of torque. Power is sent through either a 4 or 6-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels or available 4-wheel drive with low range. The Sierra Denali routes power to full-time all-wheel drive with no low range.
When properly equipped, this rugged pickup can haul over 1,750 pounds and tow as much as 8,450 pounds.
Fuel Economy: Here are the highest and lowest EPA estimates for fuel economy:
Features: The Sierra comes well-appointed. Even the entry level Sierra 1500 includes such interior features as air conditioning and an AM/FM, MP3-compatible CD player with multiple speakers. The Sierra can also be outfitted with leather appointed power seats, high-end audio, in-dash navigation and DVD systems.
While the base 1500 comes with a disc front and drum rear antilock braking system, all other models in the Sierra line-up come with 4-wheel antilock discs supported by a wide variety of electronic braking safety features.
Safety: Other standard safety features include, StabiliTrak, stability control system with Proactive Roll Avoidance and traction control. Dual-stage airbags for front passengers, head curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear outboard seating positions with rollover sensor.
Pricing/Warranty: Base MSRP for the 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 is $20,850. A top-level all wheel drive Denali model will start at $46,645. The Sierra is backed by a 5-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Summary: From basic "Work Truck" to top of the line luxury...GMC has all the bases covered with its full size 2011 Sierra pick-up truck.