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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2008 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Regular Cab

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Regular Cab

Overview

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2008 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Regular Cab Review

By KBB.com Editors

Even though, for several decades, GMC has represented little more than a rebadged Chevrolet, in 2007 GMC made a concerted effort to distinguish itself from its divisional sibling. With the 2008 GMC Sierra HD trucks, GM's engineers have also made a concerted effort to increase the differentiation between the Heavy Duty pickups and their lighter-duty 1500 counterparts.

You'll Like This Car If...

Whether purchasing for commercial construction, agriculture or recreational towing, if your needs are truly "heavy-duty" you'll likely find those needs met with the 2008 GMC Sierra HD, which offers all of the virtues, with few of the vices, normally associated with a "heavy-duty" truck.

You May Not Like This Car If...

The Heavy Duty's principal mission is to haul or tow big and heavy things. If you don't need this sort of vehicle and its "heavy-duty" attributes, you'll probably be happier with something not quite so robust.

What's New for 2008

XM Satellite Radio is made standard on all models, while dual-rear-wheel versions receive new 17-inch wheels. A power driver's seat is now available on Regular Cab models.

Driving the Sierra 3500 HD Regular Cab

Driving Impressions Given the number of drivetrain, cab and chassis variations in the GMC lineup, it's difficult to provide one set of observations regarding drivability. However, everything GMC's engineering team did to...

enhance the driving experience has worked. A more rigid frame, in combination with widened track and retuned suspensions (Z85, standard on 2WD and 4WD models; and Z71, the optional Off-Road suspension), supplies the needed capability without imposing the typical vices of a heavy-duty platform. The ride is composed, handling stable and steering accurate with good on-center feel. With the 6.0-liter gasoline V8, performance might be described as "almost recreational." The Duramax does what diesels do, pulling a lot of load (up to 13,000 lbs.) in an authoritative manner.

Favorite Features

Six-Speed Automatic
This transmission has two overdrive gears to provide relaxed cruising with lower engine speeds and a first gear that's intended to enhance off-the-line response. Of importance to those towing is both Driver Shift Control (tap up and down) and standard Tow/Haul Mode. Though some may wish for an available manual transmission, the six-speed automatic's overall excellence might cure you from wanting to shift your own gears.

Gen-IV 6.0L V8 (Gasoline)
For sheer day-in, day-out driving pleasure the 6.0-liter gasoline V8 is terrific, offering extraordinary response for a vehicle this large.

2008 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Regular Cab Details

Interior

With the 2008 GMC Sierra there are two available interiors. The base and mid-level Sierra HD standard interior is all about functionality, with an instrument panel focused on ergonomic ease, specific door panels offering larger door pulls and handles, a specific center console and two glove boxes. The "luxury" interior of the SLT trim level offers a driving environment straight out of a top-of-the-line Yukon. With a distinct instrument design, large center console and other specific trim elements the end result is decidedly upscale.

Exterior

"Upmarket" might be a kiss-of-death descriptive for a heavy-duty pickup, but it will work for the 2008 GMC Sierra HD. The grille is framed by a large chrome or black surround, with the GMC logo as its centerpiece, and is flanked by large headlamps. Corner lights wrap into the flared front fenders, which complement the bulge atop the hood, and there is a sleeker profile by virtue of a 57-degree windshield angle. Functionally, large door handles are "grab-style" (for ease of operation while wearing work gloves), doors extend over the rocker panels and, on Extended Cab models, the rear doors open 170 degrees.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

For truck-oriented capability few things beat power; GMC's standard 6.0-liter Gen IV V8 delivers 353 horsepower and 373 lb.-ft. of torque, and a six-speed automatic transmission meshes perfectly with the engine's capability. Standard safety features include seat-belt pretensioners, tire-pressure monitoring and OnStar.

Optional Equipment

For many, selecting the diesel is a no-brainer; GM's Duramax turbo-diesel provides plenty of power and is a lot quieter and smoother than diesels of the past. Those carrying lots of random cargo might better organize it with GM's cargo management system, those living in either excessively cold or warm climates will benefit from remote starting on certain trim levels and those wishing to be entertained will enjoy an enhanced DVD system and CD/MP3 audio. Finally, people who worry about getting lost should opt for the available touch-screen navigation system.

Under the Hood

GMC offers two engine choices. Base power is the 6.0-liter gasoline V8 which delivers 353 horsepower and 373 lb.-ft. of torque. Although the EPA doesn't provide a rating for vehicles in this category, past experience suggests GM gasoline engines deliver competitive fuel economy. For those wanting more, the 6.6-liter Duramax provides 365 horsepower and a remarkable 660 lb.-ft. of torque

6.0 liter V8
353 horsepower @ 5400 rpm
373 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

6.6 liter V8 Turbo Diesel
365 horsepower @ 3200 rpm
660 lb.-ft. of torque @ 1600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: N/A

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used GMC Sierra 3500 HD Regular Cab vehicles for sale near you.

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2008 GMC Sierra 3500 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."

3 people out of 4 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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