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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab

Overview

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2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab Review

By KBB.com Editors

Long regarded as the twin of the Chevrolet Silverado, the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 offers more differentiation from its General Motors stable-mate in looks, while sharing the same basic architecture and engine choices. Exclusive to the GMC Sierra line, though, is the Denali trim level that brings with it a variety of power and luxury features. Looking to extend their leadership in the pickup truck segment, GM engineers and designers have created a new breed of pickup, one offering an improved chassis, more precise steering and not one but two quieter, more upscale interiors. The Sierra also delivers segment-leading fuel economy thanks to the new line of Active Fuel Management-equipped V8 engines and the introduction of the 2-Mode hybrid model.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you need the hauling and towing capabilities of a full-size pickup truck, you can have them while at the same time contributing to the environment via a V8-engine lineup that offers Active Fuel Management technology and Flex-Fuel E85 capability.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you have trouble making up your mind, you might be boggled by the number of trim levels, cab sizes, bed lengths and even instrument panels. Rising fuel costs might also have you looking to a smaller, V6 powered truck.

What's New for 2009

All Sierra's benefit from enhancements to the OnStar and XM NavTracffic systems, while models fitted with the 5.3-, 6.0- and 6.2-liter engines gain a new six-speed automatic transmission. An E85-compatible 6.2-liter V8 is also now available on SLT and Denali trims.

Driving the Sierra 1500 Regular Cab

Driving Impressions Sufficient power and surprising ride comfort are two hallmarks of the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500. Riding on a fully-boxed frame for more chassis stiffness, with coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion...

steering, the big pickup truck is surprisingly nimble and easy to maneuver. Our lengthy test drive took us over rough, washboard gravel roads, yet the Sierra's cabin retained library-like calm and quiet. We found it hard to choose between the "pure pickup" interior and the "luxury-inspired" interior, because both were handsome and functional. While the available 4.3-liter V6 is no doubt adequate, the Sierra can also be equipped with a variety of V8 engines, most with 5.3-liter displacement, while the Denali and SLT offer a 6.2-liter variable-valve-timing engine. Power delivery with each V8 engine we tested was more than ample, though we have to admit we liked the pure power of the 6.0-liter and 6.2-liter V8s. The StabiliTrak electronic stability control system is welcome standard equipment on all V8 trims.

Favorite Features

OnStar 8.0
The latest OnStar system includes available Bluetooth connectivity and a Turn-by-turn navigation with Destination Download on models equipped with DVD-based navigation.

Active Fuel Management
The Active Fuel Management system available in four different V8s cuts the operation of four cylinders when they are unneeded and enhances fuel economy.

2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab Details

Interior

The 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 benefits from GM's extensive reworking of both full-size pickups and full-size SUVs, and among the benefits are two distinct interiors. The work truck and SLE trim levels feature the "pure pickup" interior that features larger controls – designed to accommodate gloved hands – and a double glovebox. The SLT trim level features the same "luxury-inspired" interior also used in GMC's SLT-trim Yukon and Yukon XL full-size sport utilities. Both attractive instrument panels are mounted low and far forward for an increased feeling of spaciousness. The same can be said of the back-seat area in the crew cab models, which offers ample room and comfort. Its elevated stadium-style rear seat has a 60/40-split design and folding center armrest, and it can be easily folded up with one hand to provide an uninterrupted load floor.

Exterior

While the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 does share the "strong, silent-type" handsomeness of the Silverado, it also offers a distinct front end, front and rear fenders and hood. An upscale look is highlighted by narrow gaps between body panels, enabled by the new version's significantly stiffer frame. The grille with prominent GMC logo is complemented by large "jeweled-appearance" headlights. The pickup box is taller than in the previous version of the Sierra and, at the same time, better integrated. The stamped-in rear fender flares are designed to give the truck a muscular look. Standard wheels are 17 inches in diameter, while 22-inch wheels are also available. Easy entry into the rear seat/storage area of extended-cab models is accommodated by new rear access doors that open 170 degrees. Power-operated rear-side windows lower completely into the access doors.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 is offered in five trim levels from basic to sinfully luxurious. The base model is the WT (work truck), and then, ascending the food chain, the SLE, SLT and Denali. In fact, the Sierra Denali is virtually a distinct model unto itself and includes as standard a 6.2-liter all-aluminum V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Cloth seats are standard on WT and SLE models, and leather seating is available on SLE models. SLT models include standard leather seats, the "luxury" instrument panel, 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat, six-disc audio system with Bose speakers, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and heated windshield washer system. The crew-cab SLT version is even more luxurious with rain-sensing windshield wipers and a rear-seat audio system. Even the base trim level includes a four-speed automatic transmission, tire pressure monitoring system, power rack-and-pinion steering, anti-lock brakes (ABS), air conditioning, tinted glass, full instrumentation, XM Satellite radio and two auxiliary power outlets. StabiliTrak stability control is standard on all models except those with the 4.3-liter V6 engine.

Optional Equipment

The multiplicity of trim levels should allow you to fine-tune your Sierra to the equipment level you want, but options abound as well. Convenience features offered on SLE and SLT models include touch-screen navigation/sound system, power-operated moonroof, rear backup camera and a power-sliding rear window. New for the Denali trim are heated and cooled front seats. Sierra offers five distinct suspension systems, each tailored to suit specific driving requirements. They include Z83 for a solid, smooth ride, Z85 for enhanced handling and trailer towing, Z71 for enhanced off-road capability, Z60 for street performance with 20-inch wheels and NHT for maximum towing capacity.. A choice of two- and four-wheel-drive models, various cabs and bed lengths and a variety of axle ratios are also offered.

Under the Hood

The 4.3-liter V6 and 4.8-liter V8 should be more than adequate in work truck applications, but for dual-use work and pleasure driving we recommend stepping up to at least the 5.3-liter V8 engines, some with cast-iron blocks and some with aluminum. For those with a need for towing capacity, the 6.0-liter with Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing and the 6.2-liter in the Denali are good choices, although they are expected to suffer a trifle in fuel economy.

4.3-liter V6
195 horsepower @ 4600 rpm
260 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/20 (2WD), 14/18 (4WD)

4.8-liter V8
295 horsepower @ 5600 rpm
305 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/19 (2WD), 14/18 (4WD)

5.3-liter V8 Flex Fuel
315 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
338 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 11/15 (2WD, E85) 14/20 (2WD, gasoline), 10/14 (4WD, E85), 14/19 (4WD, gasoline)

5.3-liter V8
315 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
338 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/20 (2WD), 14/19 (4WD)

6.0-liter V8
367 horsepower @ 5600 rpm
375 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4300 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/19 (2WD), 13/18 (4WD)

6.2-liter V8
403 horsepower @ 5700 rpm
417 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4300 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/19 (2WD, gasoline), 10/14 (2WD, E85), 12/19 (4WD), 9/14 (4WD, AWD, E85), 12/19 (AWD)

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2009 GMC Sierra 1500 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.9

Out of 10

Based on 664 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.0/10

Quality

9.0/10
Reliability

9.3/10

Performance

9.2/10
Comfort

9.2/10

Styling

9.1/10

Best value for the money.

By Rodney20 (PA) on Wednesday, April 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 70,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Value, classic looks, low ownership cost, reliable"

Cons: "interior styling lags behind Ford F150"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Other than the interior styling (which I think Ford is light-years ahead of all other manufacturers), I have absolutely no gripes about this truck. I test drove the F150, Titan, Ram, and Tundra. The only truck I imediately nixed after driving was the Tundra (after driving the Tundra, I was completely disappointed and cannot understand the infatuation Toyota loyalists have with that truck...way over-hyped and over-priced, and if you don't believe me, drive one and then drive/price any of the other four...unless you are a Toyota apologist, you will be disappointed). The only truck that I actually liked better than the Sierra was the F150. However, considering I could get a comparably equipped Sierra for a few thousand $$ less, the Sierra was definitely the better value. So far, I've had absolutely no problems...even the original tires lasted over 60,000 miles. My family has owned a number of different makes and models of vehicles in the past, including Chevy, Ford, Dodge, Honda, Toyota, Hyundai. A client of mine encouraged me to check out GMC, as he runs GMC's for his business and routinely gets 300,000+ miles out of his work pick-ups. Definitely glad I did check out the Sierra. One of the best vehicles (car/truck/van) I have ever owned. Will definitely buy again if I can get another reasonable deal."

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Poor performance and fuel mileage.

By LL (TX) on Wednesday, April 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 13,000

10 2.0

overall rating 2 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 2/10
Value: 2/10
Reliability: 2/10
Quality: 1/10
Performance: 1/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 5/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"Lost 6mpg as compared to 2007 model equiped same. Extremely low oil pressure. Excessive tire wear and vibration thru out vehicle. DEALER SAYS JUST DRIVE IT."

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I own a 2013-no real changes from 2012

By SanJuanWilly (CO) on Tuesday, April 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,400

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Plenty of horsepower and torque"

Cons: "sits up rather high"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I love this truck. I think its only drawback is that it sits up rather high. I think it could be a little lower to the ground. Mine is a 2013 SLT crew cab regular box Duramax 4 wheel drive. Plenty of power to pull our 29 1/2 ft fifth wheel. I love driving this rig, and plan on keeping it for quite a while (I still have my 2002 Duramax with 275000 miles as a work vehicle) I would recommend this truck to anyone who tows a trailer."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Best truck value there is!

By Or Vett 50 (OR) on Sunday, March 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 54,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Towing, reliability, durability, mileage, COMFORT"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This truck was purchased to meet the following needs: - It had to tow an 8000# travel trailer in mountain terrain. - It had to have 4 wheel drive and off road capability. - It had to have enough back seat area for 4 dogs, 1 large, 1 medium and 2 small. - It had to be COMFORTABLE! I have a bad back and can't tolerate cheap seats. - Fuel mileage was secondary, but 19 mpg highway and 12 mpg towing is quite good. This truck has exceeded all my expectations. It tows a trailer effortlessly. It is driven in 4WD almost daily when I take my dogs to the beach. When driven on long trips, it is exceedingly comfortable, especially with the leather heated seats. I have ridden in many vehicles, some over $100K Europeans. None have as comfortable seats. It has had absolutely zero unscheduled maintenance. One of the best surprises was that it has only depreciated about $3000 from what I paid almost 4 years ago."

5 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Best

By Dennis (NY) on Friday, March 22, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,169

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Everthing"

Cons: "cant drive it 24X7"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have a SLT Z71 black on black loaded with lots extras she has the 5.3 V8 I am getting great MPG my average is 17.8 does it have a fault yeah it has a few have to reach to adjust the radio,the interior is a little dated but I look forward to driving this truck to work everyday"

2 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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Buyers remorse on getting the hybrid

By Hybrid (IL) on Saturday, March 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,500

10 1.0

overall rating 1 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 1/10
Value: 1/10
Reliability: 5/10
Quality: 5/10
Performance: 1/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 4/10

Pros: "Nice idea"

Cons: "Hybrid tech doesn't work in the cold during short"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I ordered and bought this truck to be my winter driver. I picked it up in May and only drove it a couple hundred miles during the warm weather and the hybrid tech seemed to work just fine . As I put my other vehicles in storage and the weather got cold, the hybrid tech only kicks in after driving for 15 minutes or more, which is an issue since I only live 5 minutes from work. So the main reason on buying this truck and giving up on several options because of the hybrid, doesn't even work during conditions for which I bought it for. Because of the hybrid, I couldn't order a rear sliding window, storage under the rear seats, heated seats, bigger wheels, interior choices were limited just to name some. And i ordered every option and highest package possible except for a sunroof. Advertised mpg is 21, but only getting 17. After knowing all of this I would have ordered a different truck or even a different make of truck. This rating is so low just because the sole reason of purchasing this truck in a hybrid is completely useless for my driving needs. The truck does perform well in snow as far as traction so at least that is good. Hybrid also causes you to give up towing capacity, but 99% of the time for me I'm not towing large loads."

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