2000 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
zzdcar' Expert Review
by the zzdcar Experts
What’s new
After a complete redesign last year, GMC's Silverado-based pickup finally gets a fourth door on the extended cab. There's also more power on tap from the 4.8- and 5.3-liter engines, increased trailer ratings and standard programmable automatic door locks. New factory appearance items, such as wheel-lip flares and a soft tonneau cover, are now available on some models.
zzdcar says
If you want power, the Sierra's got it. But if high-quality materials and solid build quality are also a priority, you might want to check the offerings from Ford and Toyota, as well.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota$234/mo for Sierra 1500 SL
Sierra 1500 SL
SL 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) (Most Popular) - N/A MSRPSL 3dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSL 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSL 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSL 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSL 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSL 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSL 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSL 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSL 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSL 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSL 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLT 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLT 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 3dr Extended Cab LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 3dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSLE 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSLE 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSLE 3dr Extended Cab SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A) - N/A MSRPSLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRPSLE 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M) - N/A MSRP
vs
$233/mo
Avg. Large Truck
Vehicle overview
Thanks to the myriad of improvements that came with the introduction of the '99 Sierra, GMC's full-size pickup now moves to the refinement stage for 2000. Employing unique, three-piece frame construction, Sierras come in either 1500 (half-ton) or 2500 (three-quarter-ton) series.
Perhaps the biggest draw for GMC's big pickup is a first-class engine lineup. The base Vortec 4.3-liter V6 has been upgraded this year to improve durability, emissions and fuel economy. It now features a roller timing chain and rocker arms, extended-life spark plugs and coolant and a new oil-level sensor. But more impressive are the three V8s, two of which tout power increases this year thanks to new camshafts. The Vortec 4800 V8 (standard on 1500 Series extended-cab models) makes 270 horsepower (up from last year's 255). And the 5.3-liter V8 gains 15 horses (now at 285) and 10 more pound-feet of torque (to 325). Both engines enjoy a long, flat torque curve for sustained hauling performance. You can also opt for a 6.0-liter V8 with 300 horsepower.
Each truck is available with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. As usual, there is a variety of configurations to choose from, including the regular or extended cabs, short or long beds, Wideside or Sportside box designs, two- or four-wheel-drive versions, three trim levels (SL, SLE or SLT) and a dizzying array of options. As a premium truck brand, GMC says it is designing vehicles geared more toward on-road purposes. In other words, if you want a dirt-crunching, rock-hopping vehicle made by GM, Chevy would be the place to shop.
For 2000, the roomy extended cabs get a fourth-door for better rear-seat access, and with improved V8 power and a new rating system methodology, all Sierras enjoy higher trailer-towing ratings than last year. Inside, you'll find ample storage areas, including a center armrest that is large enough for a laptop computer or a six-pack of soda, depending on your priorities. Reduced-force airbags (with passenger-side on/off switch) are standard, plus several safety and convenience features have been revamped, including locking and illuminated entry functions.
The Sierra boasts far too many features to list here, but suffice it to say that GMC has a very competitive product compared to its Ford and Dodge rivals. But because GMC is set on segmenting itself as the premium truck division that caters to upscale truck buyers, prepare yourself for price creep to start forcing less-affluent young cowboy types to shop elsewhere.
2000 Sierra 1500 Highlights
Type: Regular CabExtended CabExtended CabTrim: SLSLESLTSL
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $234/month |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
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