When it comes to full-size pickups, the best available is the GMC 1500; until . When it comes to names, you have to wonder why GMC uses numbers like 1500. What has Sierra made over the years, and why does it name its models with numbers like 1500, 2500, and 3500?
What has the GMC Sierra 1500 looked like over the years?
The GMC Sierra 1500 rolled off the production line in 1999 and was launched as an extended and regular cab model, according to the GMC Sierra 1500. A crew cab version came later for 2005. The first few models were powered by three engine options, including a 4.3-liter V6, a 4.8-liter V8 making 255 horsepower, and a 5.3-liter V8 making 270 horsepower.
The 2004 model year added a hybrid version, which was offered with a starter-generator and torque converter that helped save fuel and introduced a portable power-assist unit. In 2007, the truck was redesigned with a new list of engine options. This time you can choose a 4.3-liter V6, 4.8-liter V8, 5.3-liter V8, and a 6.0-liter that produces 367 horsepower.
A few EcoTec3 engines came to the lineup in 2014, though. Also, this model year saw front-hinged rear doors on the Extended Cab versions. Fuel economy at that point was 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. The 2017 model has undergone some changes, but it turns out that it is. I have witnessed many issues with the brakes, fuel system, in-vehicle electronics, and power equipment.
What does the number 1500 mean on Sierra?
Years ago, the numbers we see on trucks meant something to buyers. For example, you might see the numbers 1500, 2500, and 3500 after a pickup model name such as Sierra. The number 1,500 indicates that the truck in question has a payload of 1,000 pounds, otherwise known as a half-ton. If you see 2,500, that means the pickup’s payload figure was 1,500 pounds, or three-quarters of a ton, and so on.
However, times have changed, and payload capacities have increased with the added technologies and features some automakers have put into their truck lineups. Also, the half-ton truck wasn’t as popular as its larger counterparts, so it rendered this version useless for many drivers.
The problem was, however, that the automakers didn’t bother changing their way of naming the pickup trucks in the lineup. , for example, it remains the same despite having a payload capacity of 2,270 pounds, making it a one-ton pickup truck.
Nowadays, auto makers use it to represent what class of truck the vehicle is in. The 1500 indicates a light truck, while the 2500-3500 stands for heavy-duty pickup trucks, according to .
What does the truck offer today?
The MultiPro tailgate, previously exclusive to Denali trims, continues to be offered. It is now offered for all trim levels. The GMC 1500 now comes with a six-cylinder Duramax diesel engine that can get up to 30 mpg combined. It’s optional on all models, except for the AT4, its latest all-terrain vehicle, where it gets it as standard.
With the addition of the second Denali livery, Denali Ultimate, you get the Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system standard. All other trim levels have the feature available. The Ultimate Edition also includes Alpine umber leather textures and Vader Chrome trims.
Sierra 1500 offers premium features, such as the infotainment system. You get a 13.4-inch touchscreen that gives you access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Basically, Sierra, which shares many of the elements, offers slightly more high-end items, like its 15-inch display.
We’ve seen the GMC Sierra 1500 in the pickup market for at least two decades, and it’s seen many changes along the way. The latest version adds some new features that will please many truck owners. But the most interesting part is the story behind the numbers we see on trucks like the Sierra 1500.
