Used 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Double Cab Review

Name: 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
Brand: GMC

More about the 2017 Sierra 1500

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Double Cab.

5 (66%)

4 (16%)

3 (0%)

2 (0%)

1 (18%)

4.2

6 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

2017 4x4 6.2 liter V8 W/8spd transmission, Nice!

CJJ, Greeley, CO, 11/24/2016

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)

This review did not allow for the proper 6.2 liter 8spd option to be selected as a detail regarding this vehicle which is what I am describing here… I Have a little under 900 miles on this truck, barely breaking it in after trading up from a 2014 GMC 5.3 liter 6spd double cab... The new 2017 with the 6.2L engine and 8 spd tranny is far more drivable under every condition I have … experienced to date… lots of low end torque and power… mountain driving in Colorado is much less an effort for this power train, it always seems to be in the right gear for the task… less clunky and more responsive than the 5.3 w/6 spd… Also, I am getting similar maybe even better gas mileage than the 5.3L 6 spd did… The 6.2L now needs to run on 87-91 octane so a bit of a trade off for fuel expense… I registered approx 27 mpg avg for a 60mph 50 mile run through the hills... 30 mpg one way and 24 mpg returning… some light snow and rain at the time… I have the All Terrain package which is great except for the Rancho shock absorbers which feel mushy at highway speeds... too much disconnect from the road, like the stock 20" wheels and tires are bouncing at times… I much prefer the grip and feel of Bilstein shocks and will change them over after a bit more driving… did the same on my 2014 with a vast improvement in handing and control… it felt much safer to drive under all conditions especially on rough roads, paved, gravel or dirt… almost got a speeding ticket right after changing to the Bilstein shocks on my '14 All Terrain double cab because it felt like I was driving slower than I was used to, when actually I was going 10 mph faster… I do wish the 1500 frame was stiffer with less resonance like the 2500HD… Didn't like 2500 gas powertrain… felt sluggish… The GMC '17 electronics now have a much better user interface for the most part, a more positive touch screen and works fairly well at linking the functions on my IPhone… some distractions, random glitches, possibly user error… there are a few mysteries yet to unfold in that 8" glowing screen on the dash even after studying the manual for an hour… All in all… Yes, I am liking this truck! Is it worth the $$$$ ??? Time will tell... Update! This truck is a great truck! Love the 6.2 liter engine and after upgrading to Bilstein 4600 shocks all around and getting rid of the original Rancho shocks with seemed terribly unsafe at highway speeds on Colorado roads I also got rid of the original factory Goodyear tires and replaced then with Michelin LTX Defenders... OMG what huge improvement all around, way better in snow and ice, quieter, better handling, traction and overall control. Gas mileage remains about the same a surprising 24mpg highway in the mountains running on Premium as recommended by the owners directives in the manual. Still 18-19mpg in town with being a lead foot... I drive more with the torque of this great engine rather than the revs... however when I do stomp on it to pass a lumbering semi... IT CRANKS! Only complaints are the frame resonance which many trucks seem to have and I wish they would just give me a place to plug in an IPAD on the dash and get rid of GMC touch screen which GMC is proud of but doesn't compare in terms of user interface to a newer iPad. Update again... Now with 39,000 miles I can say this is the best truck I have owned to date... The dealer (Auto Nation GMC) has been helpful for things like oil and filter changes, transmission fluid change etc. All normal maintenance items, and one minor recall to reprogram the ABS. Would I recommend this truck to a friend? YES, so long as they were up for getting the 6.2 engine and matching tranny at the added expense at $2495 retail, here in the mountain states there is no substitute for the better tranny and low end torque of this engine... I would also encourage them to update the shocks to Bilstein 4600's as soon as they were able. Far more controlled and surefooted ride than the OEM Rancho suspension... If they drive on twisty roads or in bad weather conditions int eh mountains then they would be far better off with the far better tracking and handling Michelin LTX Defender tires than the OEM versions. I drive the Colorado mountains in very bad conditions often and there is no comparison in snow... These Michelins are not actual snow tires however they perform amazingly well as an all around tire.

First year of ownership, 2017 SLT Double Cab 6.2L

Steven D., Shelton, CT, 07/11/2018

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)

The performance from the 6.2L V8 is exceptional, torque can be had at any engine speed, the 8-speed shifts a lot better then the 6-speed, which hampered my 2014 SLT with the 5.3L V8. It surprises many how quick the truck is and the passing power is phenomenal. Towing is easy, especially hooking up a trailer with the backup camera. With tow-haul mode engaged, towing is relatively … effortless with the 6.2. Braking, handling, and ride quality are adequate for a full-size truck, but much better than most older trucks. The seats are large and comfortable, especially for highway use. They're not bolstered especially well for sporty driving, and rear seat room is limited with the double cab - the back seat is straight against the cab wall. Ergonomics are excellent - the center console with the bucket seats can fit a laptop or several file folders, the underseat storage accessory is great for holding a few tools, and there are plenty of cupholders and cubbies for front and rear passengers. Technology is great, the active safety tech works well though I've had several false alarms with the emergency braking and forward collision warning, the active lane keeping works well. Navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth are all there, even Wi-Fi, an owner experience app with cool features (MyGMC), OnStar telematics and emergency services, SiriusXM radio, and even a cool little app store with podcasts and other available apps. The infotainment system is easy to use and intuitive. Most buttons are large and placed conveniently, and the infotainment is set up so you don't have to dig through menus to find most features. I love the spray-on bedliner, cargo tie downs, LED bedlights, and bumper-mounted bed steps. They make using the truck easier. The LED headlights are a welcome addition - the standard halogen headlights are not bright enough. I'd recommend springing for the Intellibeam headlights for a little extra visibility at night. In just over 12,000 miles and 1 year of driving, I have had 1 oil change and service around 7,000 miles and have had no issues or reasons to bring it to the dealer, a welcome improvement over my 2014 with its malfunctioning Safety Alert Seat, A/C condenser, a set of tires, and radiator all before being traded in at 39,000 miles. Gas mileage is about 15 on average with the 6.2, I mostly drive on 2-lane backroads and in town. I've gotten over 25 mpg on a 200 mile highway trip before. BOTTOM LINE: No truck or car is without it's compromises, but I have been very happy with my purchase. PROS: Acceleration, utility, technology, ergonomics and large list of creature comforts. CONS: 8-speeds seems too much, although it shifts a lot smoother than the 6-speed in my 2014; interior quality is a little lacking, they keep getting more and more expensive.

2017 GMC Sierra transmission are junk.

Ron Sanford, Northborough, MA, 02/05/2022

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)

My 2017 Sierra 1500 with 65,000 miles is currently in the shop getting a $4000 transmission rebuild. I have never towed or plowed with this vehicle. This shop says they see this all the time with 2017 Silverados and Sierras. Consumer reports gives these transmissions its lowest rating and says they have major and minor failures. There is a class action lawsuit for 8 speed GM …

I LOVE MY TRUCK ITS RIGHT.OUTSIDE

Randy, La Harpe, IL, 08/15/2018

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)

Buu it. Hands down so far the best bow tie vehicle Ive ever owned.It s fast lot of comfort a rollin computer on wheels Hell the only thing it dont do is fly

See all 6 reviews of the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Double Cab

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Edmunds Summary Review of the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Double Cab

Pros & Cons

Pro:Strong combination of fuel economy and power
Pro:Comfortable, quiet cabin
Pro:Compliant ride quality makes it suitable for daily use
Pro:Many available configurations and trims
Con:The six-speed automatic gear ratios are spread too far for towing needs
Con:Cabin not as spacious as those of rivals

Full Edmunds Review: 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab

byJason Kavanagh^{Senior Vehicle Test Engineer
Jason joined Edmunds' testing team in 2006 as a vehicle testing engineer. Jason believes true appreciation of modern cars stems from owning really, really bad old ones.}

What’s new

For 2017, the GMC Sierra 1500 receives only minor updates such as a capless fuel-filler neck, active grille shutters for improved aerodynamics, low-speed automatic braking and a driver monitor system.

Vehicle overview

A jack-of-all-trades and quite good at all of them, the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 has comfort, capability and versatility in equal measure. It's refined and delivers an appealing balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It's a smart choice that will serve you well.

For 2017 the GMC Sierra glides along nearly unchanged. It brings a few minor upgrades such as active grille shutters that reduce aerodynamic drag, a capless fuel-filler neck and some enhancements to the infotainment system. Otherwise, this remains the same trusty and widely competent pickup that it has been for the past few years.

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 models

The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 is available in four trim levels: base, SLE, SLT and Denali. They are available in various cab and bed configurations.

The base is available only with a regular or a double cab and is sparsely equipped, though options are available. We recommend buyers look to the SLE trim level at a minimum because it has features beyond just what you'd find in a work-only truck. The version that strikes the best balance between amenities and functionality is the SLT trim level, while the range-topping Denali's luxury will appeal to buyers who want it all.

Configurations are as follows: Regular cabs are offered with a 6.5- or an 8-foot bed, double cabs come only with a 6.5-foot bed, and crew cabs are available with a 5.8- or a 6.5-foot bed. Be aware that not all trim levels are available with all configurations. All cab configurations are available with four-wheel drive.

Base Sierras are fairly bare-bones, which is fine if you're looking for a work truck. It comes with a 4.3-liter V6 (285 horsepower, 305 pound-feet of torque), though a 5.3-liter V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft of torque) is optional. For any kind of regular use, you'll want more creature comforts than the base Sierra delivers as standard.

The SLE trim level adds a backup camera, an upgraded infotainment unit, 17-inch aluminum wheels, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with an optional telescoping column.

Stepping up to the SLT, our trim level of choice, nets you the 5.3-liter V8 engine, towing hardware, power-folding and heated mirrors, and heated leather seats. The SLT's standard V8 engine paired with the available eight-speed automatic forms our preferred Sierra powertrain. A 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque) becomes an option at the SLT level. Parking alerts become available, too, and they're terrifically handy in a full-size pickup.

At the top of the range is the Denali, which comes with most of the features available on lower trim levels and has all of the available driver assistance features. It adds exclusive Magnetic Ride Control dampers, 20-inch wheels and unique interior appointments.

Driving

3.5

The powertrain in the Sierra Denali is nothing short of impressive. With 420 horsepower, 460 lb-ft of torque and an eight-speed transmission, the truck is never short on grunt. But the brakes and the steering show considerably less advancement. The 22-inch wheels do it no help either.

Acceleration

4.5

There's stout performance from this 6.2-liter V8, so much so that the eight-speed automatic might seem a little much, but together they make for arguably the best powertrain in the class. Power is plentiful at any engine speed, even though peak torque of 460 lb-ft is achieved at 4,100 rpm.

Braking

3.0

Around town, the Sierra's brakes are friendly and capable. Panic-braking tests revealed a confident and stable truck with little dive, impressive for its size though braking distances were a little on the long side at 141 feet. GMC offers a brake upgrade, which is a curious option we've never tested.

Steering

3.0

Pinpoint accuracy and feedback are not its strong suits. Like the brakes, the steering is easy and gives you enough confidence to pilot this truck around town. Though it's accurate enough, the weighting never changes, leaving the driver feeling wholly disconnected from the front wheels.

Handling

2.5

The 22-inch wheel and tire package doesn't help the Sierra's cause. The tires' low-rolling resistance and all-terrain construction leave the Sierra with a lack of grip. The truck feels stable, but the tires howl in protest if asked to turn. The ESC is conservatively tuned if not a bit clumsy.

Drivability

4.5

The Sierra makes having this much capability and power easy to handle. Key among the highlights is the transparent powertrain calibration. You rarely find yourself without enough power, and the system is quick to respond if you need more. Guiding this truck through most environments is a breeze.

Off-road

3.0

Four-wheel drive (high and low) can be selected via a knob on the dashboard. There's an active electronic transfer case and hill descent control, but the off-road prowess of our test truck is muted by the silly 22-inch wheels and power side steps. A Z71 package is available for more capability.

Comfort

3.0

The Sierra has the basics down with decent ride control, comfortable seats, and low road and wind noise. But the optional 22-inch wheel and tire package does its best to erase most of those gains. The climate control system also failed to keep the cabin cool during a stint in extreme heat.

Seat comfort

3.0

While they are wide and accommodating, there's nothing particularly special about the seats in the Sierra Denali. There's little support offered for anything other than highway cruising. The seats do benefit from being both heated and cooled.

Ride comfort

3.0

With its Magnetic Ride Control, the Sierra Denali does a fairly impressive job of delivering above-average ride quality on smooth roads. Over rougher pavement the 22-inch wheels simply become too much to handle. The ride degrades noticeably, and the steering column shimmies and shakes constantly.

Noise & vibration

4.0

The cabin is generally well isolated from tire and wind noise, even over rough roads. The exhaust noise is a subdued burble, and wind noise is minimal considering the shape and size of the truck. Vibrations could only be felt through the steering wheel on rougher roads.

Climate control

2.0

The functionality of the controls is hard to fault, but we found the airflow and performance in hot weather to be subpar. The driver's air vent placement is poor, delivering most of the air to your hands. During one stint in 95-plus degree heat, the Sierra was unable to cool the cabin adequately.

Interior

2.0

Most of the interior is a study on how to do a truck interior correctly. Switches are big and easy to use, access is good, and there's plenty of space. Some options proved to be more annoying than helpful, and the inexplicable misalignment of the center of the steering wheel is a nagging annoyance.

Ease of use

4.0

There are no real ergonomic gaffes in the Sierra Denali. Most controls fall readily to hand with the exceptions being the unusually small power rear window and sunroof rocker switches located on the headliner mounted console. Screens and menus are clear and easy to navigate.

Getting in/getting out

2.5

The usually easy entry to a Sierra is upset by the optional power step rails. The truck isn't high enough to make them of any use to passengers over 5-foot-5, and their auto deployment caught out many a taller driver. Curiously, a driver's front roof pillar grab handle is optional at this price.

Driving position

3.0

Twelve-way power seats, adjustable pedals and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel make it easy to get situated, but the off-center steering column spoils the driving position. You either lean against the door to center the wheel in your chest or accept the mildly infuriating misalignment.

Roominess

3.0

As with any full-size crew-cab truck, there's ample room for both front and rear passengers. Up front, hip and shoulder room are generous, and rear seat passengers will find no room to complain about space.

Visibility

3.5

All in all the Sierra has good visibility. Even with the big square hood, the only sightline restrictions come from the large base of the front roof pillars and the much too small outside rearview mirrors. The backup camera is clear and has a good field of vision.

Quality

2.0

At first glance the build quality is up to par with that of other luxury trucks in the segment. But upon closer inspection, the notion of anything being very luxurious disappears. Many interior plastics feel similar to those on the back of a television, and the fake wood trim is a poor choice.

Utility

3.5

If you can't haul a lot or store a lot, you're not doing the full-size truck game right. The Sierra Denali excels at both and proves useful on a personal as well as a professional level.

Small-item storage

3.5

Like any good full-size truck, there's a ton of space inside the Sierra. The center console has room for cans, oversized drink bottles, multiple phones and a laptop. There's plentiful door pocket storage as well, but door pockets are all the rear passengers will get.

Cargo space

4.0

The 5-foot-8 bed came lined and proved easy to access. Intrusions from wheelwells are minimal, and the bed height isn't as high as that of some other trucks in this class. Rear bumper steps are a help as are the power side steps, which can be adjusted to assist in front of the bed access.

Child safety seat accommodation

3.0

The LATCH anchors are easy to get to, and with the power side steps deployed, reaching in to hook up a car seat is much easier on your back.

Towing

4.0

GMC rates the 6.2-liter V8 4x4 Sierra to tow 11,700 pounds. That's competitive with the F-150 and more than a Ram 1500. The Denali comes with trailer sway control as well as a trailer brake controller. The NHT trailering package upgrades the rear axle, rear springs, shocks and cooling systems.

Hauling

4.0

The 6.2-liter V8 gives the 4x4 Sierra Denali 2,120 pounds of payload capacity. That puts it behind the F-150 (both the EcoBoost V6 and 5.0-liter V8 versions) but well ahead of the Ram 1500.

Edmunds Insurance Estimator

The Edmunds TCO^® estimated monthly insurance payment for a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 in Ohio is:

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Used 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Double Cab Review

Most helpful consumer reviews

2017 4x4 6.2 liter V8 W/8spd transmission, Nice!

First year of ownership, 2017 SLT Double Cab 6.2L

2017 GMC Sierra transmission are junk.

I LOVE MY TRUCK ITS RIGHT.OUTSIDE

Edmunds Summary Review of the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Double Cab

Which Sierra 1500 does Edmunds recommend?

Full Edmunds Review: 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab

What’s new

Vehicle overview

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 models

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Towing

Hauling

Edmunds Insurance Estimator

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