2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel

　　

2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Review

byJosh JacquotCorrespondent

　　Josh Jacquot is an automotive journalist at zzdcar.

　　With one major exception, the GMC Sierra 1500 continues largely unchanged into 2024. In service of the long-range and low-end grunt required in overlanding applications, GMC made the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel the standard engine on its off-road-focused AT4X trim Sierra 1500. That engine has also been improved for 2024, and it now makes more horsepower and torque than last year. Otherwise, there are a few minor equipment tweaks with retractable assist steps and active exhaust offered on certain trims.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 10A) 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 $3.94 per gallon for diesel in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$225/mo  for Sierra 1500 AT4

　　Sierra 1500 AT4

　　AT4 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 10A) (Most Popular) - $66,100 MSRPAT4 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.6 ft. SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 10A) - $66,400 MSRPAT4X 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB 5.8 ft. SB (3.0L 6cyl Turbodiesel 10A) - $79,200 MSRP

　　vs

　　$233/mo

　　Avg. Large Truck

　　The Sierra 1500 is available with four engines, two- or four-wheel drive, and a variety of cab and bed combinations across eight trims levels. Like all light-duty trucks the Sierra is designed to serve every possible use case for a light-duty truck. That means it's available in a huge spectrum of versions, starting with a stripped-down Pro trim with 17-inch wheels and a cloth and vinyl interior. The top of the range is the full-luxe Denali Ultimate, which comes with 22-inch wheels, speakers in its tailgate, and available semi-automated driving.

　　We don't think the Sierra is the best value among light-duty trucks, but it holds its own in most areas. Read our Expert Rating for all the details.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.7

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

7.5/10

　　How does the Sierra 1500 drive? Our test truck came as a crew cab with four-wheel drive and the optional 6.2-liter V8. At our test track, it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which is quick for a full-size truck. The 10-speed transmission shifts quickly and promptly. Maximum braking performance is also impressive, though a lack of brake pedal feel can make it hard to come to smooth stops in routine driving.

　　We're less fond of the Sierra's handling capability. It leans over a lot and generally feels ponderous as you drive around turns. The feel from the steering wheel is also a bit numb. Off-road capability is average for a full-size truck. There's also a Traction Select system, which allows additional wheelspin and smoother initial throttle response in low-traction scenarios.

　　

Comfort

7.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Sierra 1500? The Sierra's front seats aren't quite as plush as those in the F-150 and Ram 1500, but they're comfortable and good for long trips. The ride is relatively smooth on the highway, and the truck absorbs most small impacts well. But the truck can get bouncy when you drive on roads that have a lot of bumps and dips.

　　The climate system can easily heat and cool the cabin, but operating it can be a little tricky because a lot of the control buttons are small. We really like the heated split front seats — offering separate settings for the seatback and seat cushion — a GM-exclusive feature. Engine noise is nicely muted until you get hard on the throttle, at which point it becomes a bit unpleasant but not offensive.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below