2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Review





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Used Sierra 1500 for sale
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2022 SIERRA 1500 LIMITED
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*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. See your GMC dealer for details.
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Smooth and quiet ride, agreeable seats, brawny optional V8s, comprehensive standard safety equipment, upscale interior on SLT and Denali models.
Cons
- Large turning circle, bland base interior design, mediocre cabin storage.
What’s new
The 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 with the 5.3-liter V8 receives tweaks that yield incrementally better fuel economy, including a standard six-speed transmission and variable valve timing. The 6.2-liter V8 also gets a standard six-speed. The 6.0-liter V8 has been dropped, but all remaining V8s can now run on E85 as well as gasoline. Side curtain airbags, seat-mounted side airbags and stability control are standard on all models, and USB connectivity is optional on SLE and SLT (standard on Denali).
Edmunds says
Powerful, comfortable and offered in a wide array of body styles and configurations, the 2010 GMC Sierra is a prime choice for a full-size pickup.
Vehicle overview
"Sierra" is the rare automotive name that isn't completely inscrutable. It means "mountain range" in Spanish, and a mountain range has a lot in common with a good pickup truck. Rugged. Tough. Unyielding. See? Every now and again, automakers pick a name that actually makes some sense. And in this case, the vehicle lives up to its billing -- the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the best full-size trucks you can buy.
As ever, the 2010 Sierra is a robust specimen. There are no fewer than three optional V8 engines, and towing and hauling ratings are top-notch. However, drivers are demanding a lot more from their trucks these days than just the ability to do grunt work. To this end, the Sierra offers plenty of standard and available features, including luxuries like a navigation system and a USB jack that are generally associated with passenger cars and SUVs. There are also two interiors, the more upscale of which (SLT and Denali trims only) is sourced from GM's full-size luxury SUVs and features a full center console and good-quality materials.
The base interior, however, which is the interior most Sierras are stuck with, is about as spartan as it gets in this segment. It offers plenty of functionality, but hardly anything in the way of visual interest. Rivals like the Dodge Ram and Toyota Tundra have nicer interiors even in base trim. Other demerits include a lackluster base V6 and a rather cumbersome turning circle.
Competition is stiff in this segment, as evidenced by our latest full-size truck comparison test -- the Ram and Tundra both beat out the Sierra's twin, the Chevy Silverado, even though the GM trucks are still a fairly new design. But the entrants were closely bunched in the scoring column, and we still have a lot of respect for the GM twins. The 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 shares enough characteristics with its namesake that we don't hesitate to recommend it alongside its capable full-size peers.
Performance & mpg
There are four different engines available for the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500. Work trucks have a 4.3-liter V6 (195 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque) as standard. This can be upgraded to a 4.8-liter V8 (295 hp, 305 lb-ft) or a 5.3-liter V8 (315 hp, 338 lb-ft). The SLE trims will have one of the two V8s as standard, depending on style, while the SLT has the 5.3-liter engine as standard.
Available on select models is a 6.2-liter V8 (403 hp and 417 lb-ft). The 6.2 comes standard on the Denali. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard on the two big V8s, while the 4.8-liter V8 and the V6 come only with a four-speed automatic. In 0-60-mph testing, we clocked the related Silverado with the 6.2-liter V8 in a very quick 6.6 seconds. Properly equipped, a Sierra 1500 can tow up to 10,600 pounds.
Buyers have a choice of two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive or, in the case of the Denali, all-wheel drive. The Work and LS trims with 4WD have a traditional floor-mounted selector for the transfer case. All other 4WD trims have Autotrac, which features an automatic setting that shifts into 4WD when wheel slippage is detected.
Fuel economy estimates range from 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined for a crew cab XFE down to 12/19/14 mpg for the Denali AWD.
Safety
Antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum) are standard, with an all-disc setup available via the Max Trailering package on the Denali trim. A stability control system with roll-mitigating technology is also standard across the lineup, as are front-seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags.
In government crash tests, the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 earns top five-star ratings for frontal collisions. As of this writing, neither the government nor the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had subjected the newly side airbag-equipped 2010 Sierra to side-impact crash testing.
Driving
The 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 is part of the new breed of big trucks that are actually pleasant to drive. The steering is light but reasonably precise, and the truck's comfortable seats and smooth, quiet ride make long road trips enjoyable. However, the Sierra's turning circle is a little larger than that of most other trucks. Acceleration is sluggish with the base V6 but just fine with even the modest 4.8-liter V8. The 5.3-liter V8 feels brawny, and the 6.2-liter V8 turns the Sierra into a veritable muscle truck. We much prefer the six-speed automatic that comes standard with the two bigger V8s; the four-speed feels past its prime.
Interior
The Sierra's base interior is a little dull relative to the competition. However, the Sierra SLT and Denali feature a unique upscale dash and door panel treatment with a full center console and attractive wood grain and metallic accents, although you'll pay a stiff entry price for this privilege. The rear seat in crew cab models is quite comfortable, and the seat cushions can be folded upward for a nearly flat load floor. Interior storage is adequate, but some might take issue with the smallish cupholders and the haphazard organization of the center console box.
2010 GMC Sierra 1500 models
The 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 is a half-ton full-size pickup that's available in three body styles: standard cab, extended cab and crew cab. Standard cabs can be had with a standard bed (6-foot, 6-inch) or long bed (8-foot). Extended cabs can have a short (5-foot, 8-inch), standard or long bed. In the interest of maneuverability, crew cabs come only with the short bed.
Regular cabs can be had in base Work or nicely equipped SLE trims, while the extended and crew cabs are also available in the plush SLT trim. There's also an SL trim and a top-of-the-line Denali trim for crew cabs only. The Work trim comes with the basics, including air-conditioning (extended- and crew-cab versions), a trip computer, OnStar, vinyl seating, a tilt steering wheel, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, a CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The SL adds full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and adjustable lumbar support for the driver.
Moving up, the SLE also offers premium cloth seating (with a lockable compartment and a power outlet built into the center cushion of the split front seat), an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The premium SLT adds a premium interior design with a full center console and upgraded materials, rain-sensing wipers (with heated washer fluid), a Bose audio system with a six-CD changer, leather seating, remote engine start, an exclusive dash design with wood and metallic accents, 12-way power/heated front seats and rear audio controls. Sierra Denali models trump the SLT with a unique powertrain, on-road-biased suspension tuning, special wheels, exterior styling enhancements, a heated steering wheel, a turn-by-turn navigation feature for OnStar and USB connectivity (optional on SLE and SLT).
Depending on the Sierra ordered, notable available options include a variety of towing packages, the Z71 Off-Road package (skid plates, an off-road suspension and a locking rear differential), the All-Terrain package (similar to the Z71 but with special interior and exterior enhancements) and the XFE (extra fuel economy) trim variant for the two-wheel-drive 5.3-liter V8 crew cab (which features aerodynamic enhancements and lightweight aluminum components that improve fuel economy).
Other options include 20- and 22-inch wheels, a rear back-up camera, upgraded audio systems, Bluetooth, a navigation system with real-time traffic reports, a rear-seat entertainment system, heated power-folding outside mirrors, a sunroof, a power-sliding rear window, a cargo management system, rear park assist and the "EZ Lift" tailgate that requires only about half the effort (compared to the standard tailgate) to open and close.
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*The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. See your GMC dealer for details.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500.
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
New Truck
Livwir,03/29/2010
SLE 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
Z60 package with 5.3L V8 and 3.42 rear gear. Z60 chorme package really stands out on a black truck. It has great get up and go power, the 6 speed transmission takes some getting use to. The 20" rims and tires plus chrome, I get "Good looking truck" comments a lot. The steering wheel control are great, love the blue tooth(hands free phone). I have leather bench seat, the center fold down … is just the right height & size with plenty of storage. Everyone that rides in the center complain about the seat beat release.
4.63 out of 5 stars
2010 GMC 6.2 liter extended cab pickup
danlaur,10/03/2010
SLE 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
This is the best pickup that I have owned. the pros are: 1. power 2. towing capability 3. looks 4. comfort 5. build quality Cons are: 1. fuel mileage
3.38 out of 5 stars
Very good but could be better
nibs,03/30/2013
SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
Just turned 36k on my MY10.
I've the SLT, aluminum 5.3 engine, external oil cooler, Z71 package.
10K of the milage has been done while towing a 12ft enclosed trailer with a sled and gear in the in it.
No issues towing but the transmission is clunky.
There is squeaking from the doors.
The seats could be plusher and have more power settings.
I'd like to have the option to be able extend … the steering wheel as well.
I do not like the hard plastic.
I like that the Sierra is not a tank of a truck like the Ford, Dodge and Toyota.
Fuel economy is ok but I think it could be better.
The edge of my rims seem to have deteriorated and that should not have happened so soon.
4 out of 5 stars
Awesome truck!!! With a catch...
Brian Franklin,05/05/2017
SLE 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
I have been a die hard fan of Honda my entire life (owning 9 in the past 11 years). After realizing I needed a truck for my business I began my search, and felt wrong buying a truck that wasn't "American". I opted for the 2010 Sierra forgetting one thing.... ITS GM!!! The Sierra is an incredibly classy looking truck, with tons of power under the hood, and an unbelievable feeling of … satisfaction when you're the on behind the wheel. However, I have replaced the following -FUEL PUMP, $950 -Power Steering System, $1150 -Front Suspension including axle, $2300 -Brake pads and rotors on all four brakes: $1100 New leaf springs, $785..... Long story short I have spent almost $7,000 in repairs on my truck and have been fighting corporate GM the entire time. The most frustrating part is, I drive it like a baby, its washed weekly, and waxed once every 3 months. There is no excuse for the quality of build with this truck, but if you want a really big truck with tons of capability, the Sierra is for you. But honestly?? Get something not American...
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5PassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestAcceptable
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintAcceptable
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
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More about the 2010 GMC Sierra 1500
Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Overview
The Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 is offered in the following submodels: Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, Sierra 1500 Regular Cab, Sierra 1500 Extended Cab. Available styles include SLE 4dr Extended Cab 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLE 4dr Extended Cab 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Denali 4dr Crew Cab AWD 5.8 ft. SB (6.2L 8cyl 6A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab 8 ft. LB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLE 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD 8 ft. LB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLE 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), Work Truck 4dr Extended Cab 6.5 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A), SLT 4dr Extended Cab 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab 4WD 8 ft. LB (4.3L 6cyl 4A), SLE 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab 8 ft. LB (4.3L 6cyl 4A), SLE 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), Denali 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (6.2L 8cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Extended Cab 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 8 ft. LB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab 6.5 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A), Work Truck 2dr Regular Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A), XFE 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Work Truck 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SL 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SL 4dr Extended Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), SL 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A), and SL 4dr Extended Cab 6.5 ft. SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A). Pre-owned GMC Sierra 1500 models are available with a 4.8 L-liter flex-fuel (FFV) engine or a 5.3 L-liter flex-fuel (FFV) engine or a 6.2 L-liter flex-fuel (FFV) engine, with output up to 403 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 comes with rear wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 4-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic, 6-speed shiftable automatic. The Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 5 yr./ 100000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500?
Price comparisons for Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 trim styles:
- The Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE is priced between $13,300 and$15,988 with odometer readings between 131702 and168779 miles.
- The Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 Work Truck is priced between $19,990 and$19,990 with odometer readings between 55344 and55344 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500S are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 for sale near. There are currently 3 used and CPO 2010 Sierra 1500S listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $13,300 and mileage as low as 55344 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2010 GMC Sierra 1500.
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Should I lease or buy a 2010 GMC Sierra 1500?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
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