GMC Sierra 2500HD Review

2008 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE Regular Cab Shown

Though "HD" has become common parlance, rest assured that the HD part of "GMC Sierra 2500HD" does not, in fact, involve plasma or LCD TVs. In this case we're talking the old-fashioned meaning of HD: "Heavy Duty." As GMC's 3/4-ton full-size pickup, the 2500HD is a true workhorse meant for big-league power, towing and hauling capabilities.

Current GMC Sierra 2500HD

The current Sierra 2500HD is much improved over the past version in terms of cabin materials and build quality. Where there was once an abundance of lackluster design, hard plastic and uneven panel gaps there's now richly grained upholstery, softer materials and precise fitments.

The GMC Sierra 2500HD is available in regular-, extended- or crew-cab designs, with a long or short wheelbase, and with rear- or four-wheel drive. The extended- and crew-cab body styles are offered in four trim levels: Work Truck, SLE1, SLE2 and top-line SLT. The regular cabin can only be had in Work Truck and SLE1 trims.

Standard on all Sierra 3/4-ton pickups is a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 353 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The burly Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that puts out 365 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque is optional. Its standard Allison six-speed automatic is well-suited for towing and hauling large loads.

When comparing General Motors' previous-generation heavy-duty pickups to those from Ford and Dodge, GM's trucks came out on top and we have no reason to doubt a similar outcome today. In our experience, the Sierra is now more competent, refined and easier to drive. Although multigenerational brand loyalty may dictate what heavy-duty pickup you take home, sticking with (or switching to) the GMC Sierra 2500HD is a solid decision.

Past GMC Sierra 2500HD

The previous-generation Sierra 2500HD was sold from 2001-'06 and lived on one more year as the "Classic" for 2007. There was a heavy-duty package available for the light-duty Sierra 2500 in 1999 and 2000. That light-duty Sierra 2500 has been discontinued. In terms of updates, there were changes made to the exterior and interior styling for 2003, with further exterior tweaks for 2005. These trucks came in Work Truck (after '03), SL, SLE and SLT trim levels.

The standard engine was a 6.0-liter V8 that made 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. There were two optional engines: an 8.1-liter gasoline V8 producing 340 hp and 455 lb-ft and a 6.6-liter turbodiesel producing 300 hp and 520 lb-ft. This diesel was upgraded in 2006 for more power and refinement and fewer emissions. It made 360 hp and a whopping 650 lb-ft of torque. These engines carried over for the Classic. A five-speed manual transmission was standard with the 6.0-liter V8, with a four-speed automatic optional. The 8.1-liter V8 and diesel engines came with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic (which became a six-speed for 2006).

As with the current GMC Sierra 2500HD, we were always impressed by this generation's powerful engine lineup and substantial towing and hauling abilities. It was a reasonably comfortable truck for everyday use, but don't expect the plush ride of its light-duty siblings. Any of the three available engines will provide swift acceleration and ample towing power, but the diesel V8 is probably the best choice for those who tow heavy loads -- especially the more powerful 2006 Duramax. Our principal beef concerns the shoddy interior design, materials and build quality. GMC improved it gradually during its lifespan, but it was never quite up to snuff.

The previous-generation GMC Sierra 2500 ran from 1988-'98 with a significant refresh for 1995. It was known as the Sierra 2500 Classic for 1999 and 2000. Strengths of these pickup trucks include strong, durable powertrains, while weaknesses center on sketchy build quality and materials within the cabin.

SELECT A SPECIFIC GMC SIERRA 2500HD MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.