2018 GMC Sierra 1500
What’s new
- The 7-inch touchscreen is now standard
- A rearview camera is now standard
- Part of the third Sierra 1500 generation introduced for 2014
Pros
- Strong combination of fuel economy and power
- Comfortable, quiet cabin
- Compliant ride quality makes it suitable for daily use
- Many available configurations and trims
Cons
- Cabin not as spacious as some rivals
- Standard six-speed automatic gear ratios aren't maximized for towing
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which Sierra 1500 does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
3.5 / 5The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 doesn't get any big changes this year, but it didn't really need any. The Sierra, which shares its design with the Chevy Silverado, is highly capable when it comes to towing and is an all-around impressive and luxurious truck.
Available with three different engines and with multiple body and bed configurations, the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 is as customizable as any full-size truck on the road today. In the right configuration, it can tow more than 12,000 pounds. Yet the Sierra is also available with a long list of luxury and safety features and is very easy to live with on a daily basis. There are some drawbacks with the Sierra, including the slightly underwhelming base powertrain (a 4.3-liter V6 that we recommend replacing with one of the optional V8s) and the somewhat dated interior. But overall it's a strong offering from GMC in a highly competitive class.
Trim levels & features
The 2018 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 relatively sparsely equipped, though a few options are available. We recommend buyers look to the SLE trim level at a minimum because it has features beyond 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 standard bed (6 feet 7 inches) or an extended bed (8 feet); double cabs come only with the standard bed; and crew cabs are available with a standard bed or a short bed (5 feet 9 inches). Be aware that not all trim levels are available with all configurations. All cab configurations are available with four-wheel drive.
The base Sierra comes with a 4.3-liter V6 (285 horsepower, 305 pound-feet of torque), a six-speed automatic transmission, 17-inch steel wheels, automatic xenon headlamps, power locks, a locking tailgate, power windows, air conditioning, cruise control, a rearview camera, a tilt-only steering wheel, Bluetooth, a 7-inch touchscreen interface, USB connectivity and a six-speaker sound system.
The Sierra Convenience package adds remote keyless entry, a remote-locking tailgate, heated power mirrors, a 110-volt AC outlet and LED cargo box lighting. The Elevation Edition includes those items plus special 20-inch black alloy wheels, LED foglights, body-color exterior trim and OnStar communications (with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot).
The SLE trim level adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a damped tailgate, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen.
Many more options are available on the SLE. The SLE's Convenience package adds rear parking sensors, a rear window defogger, a sliding rear window and power-adjustable pedals. The Preferred package adds remote start, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel (V8 only), an power-adjustable driver seat and dual-zone automatic climate control. The SLE Value package adds the same items plus trailering equipment and a rear locking differential. Other options include leather upholstery, a full center console, a power-adjustable front passenger seat and wireless smartphone charging.
Stepping up to the SLT, our trim level of choice, nets you the 5.3-liter V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft), an eight-speed automatic transmission, power-folding and heated mirrors, leather upholstery and heated front seats. A 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft) is optional. Other options for the SLT include front and rear parking sensors, a power-sliding rear window, a heated steering wheel, full LED headlights, a spray-in bedliner, navigation, a sunroof and a seven-speaker Bose audio system.
GMC offers an Enhanced Driver Alert package for the SLE and SLT. It includes driver assistance features such as a forward collision warning system with low-speed automatic emergency braking as well as lane departure warning and intervention.
Available on the SLT crew and double cabs are two different off-road-focused packages called the All-Terrain and All-Terrain X. The All-Terrain package adds a few features mentioned above plus some exterior styling changes, an off-road suspension featuring Rancho shocks and an underbody shield. The All-Terrain X package is similar in theme but lacks the off-road suspension.
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 adaptive suspension dampers, 20-inch wheels and unique interior appointments.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects.
The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Crew Cab Short Bed (6.2L V8 | 8-speed automatic | 4WD | 5-foot-9 bed).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current GMC Sierra 1500 has received some very minor revisions, including the addition of optional upgraded brakes. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's GMC Sierra.
Driving
3.5Acceleration
4.5Braking
3Steering
3Handling
2.5Drivability
4.5Off-road
3Comfort
3Seat comfort
3Ride comfort
3Noise & vibration
4Climate control
2Interior
3Ease of use
4Getting in/getting out
2.5Driving position
3Roominess
3Visibility
3.5Quality
2Utility
3.5Small-item storage
3.5Cargo space
4Child safety seat accommodation
3Towing
4Hauling
4Technology
4Audio & navigation
3.5Smartphone integration
4Driver aids
3.5Voice control
3Top consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Sierra 1500 safety features:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Sounds an alarm and flashes a light when the system detects a possible front crash.
- Lane Keep Assist
- Detects when the vehicle is drifting from its lane and gently steers it back toward the middle.
- Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking
- Automatically applies the brakes when the system detects a likely front crash at low speeds.
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GMC Sierra 1500 vs. the competition
2018 GMC Sierra 1500
2018 Ford F-150
GMC Sierra 1500 vs. Ford F-150
The 2018 Ford F-150 is the Sierra's chief competitor in the full-size pickup market. The F-150 is available in more trims with a greater range of engines, making it a more customizable vehicle than the Sierra. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly workhorse, a luxury cruiser or an off-road adventurer, there's an F-150 in the lineup for you.
GMC Sierra 1500 vs. Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is the old man in the light-duty class, with roots that stretch back to the 2007 model year. It has some strengths, including a standard V8 and competitive pricing. However, the mandatory V8 means the Tundra isn't as fuel-efficient as rivals with standard V6 engines, and the Tundra's engine is even thirstier than competing V8s. The interior is showing its age, while the ride is noticeably less refined than others in the class.
GMC Sierra 1500 vs. GMC Sierra 2500HD
The GMC Sierra 2500HD is the heavy-duty version of the Sierra 1500 light-duty pickup, so it's more concerned with ultimate towing and hauling capabilities than passenger comfort. Properly configured with the available diesel-powered V8, the Sierra 2500HD can tow considerably more than the 1500. It's more expensive, though, and it's possible a 1500 will still easily meet your needs.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 for Sale
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See your car's valueThe GMC Sierra is essentially a rebadged version of the Chevrolet Silverado, and though there are certainly differences in trim as well as price, the trucks are identical from a functional standpoint. Both are good pickups, and choosing between them is a matter of personal taste. At its heart, though, the Sierra is the same hard-working truck we've come to know and respect.
The Sierra can be had with three different engines, all designed to deliver strong low-end torque, which is exactly what a pickup truck needs to get those heavy loads moving. The base engine is a 4.3-liter V6 rated at 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque. An optional 5.3-liter V8 offers 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. For those who want as much muscle as possible, GMC offers a big 6.2-liter V8 that delivers 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It turns the Sierra into one of the fastest-accelerating full-size pickups you can buy. All engines feature an automatic transmission and rear- or four-wheel drive.
GMC offers a wide selection of bed and cab options. Regular-cab trucks can be had with a standard (6-foot-7-inch) bed or a long (8-foot) bed. Extended cabs come exclusively with the standard bed, and the four-door crew cab can be paired with either a short (5-foot-9-inch) bed or a standard bed. All cabs are nicely finished with broad, soft seats that offer good long-distance comfort, though overall cab space isn't as generous as in some competing trucks. We like the quality of the interior and the easy-to-learn control layout, though we wish the side mirrors were bigger.
The Sierra is a pleasant truck to drive on a daily basis. The steering is reasonably responsive for a pickup truck, and the ride is quiet and smooth, if not quite best in class. Big trucks will always be ponderous on a curvy road, and the Sierra 1500 is no exception, but overall its responses are good. The 4WD models get a low-range transfer case, and when equipped with the Z71 suspension package and more aggressive tires, the Sierra 1500 is a capable off-roader.
GMC offers the Sierra in four trim levels: base, SLE, SLT and Denali. We think most noncommercial buyers will be happy with the SLE or the SLT, which have more of the amenities we like to see for daily driving. For those who want it all, the Denali trim turns the Sierra 1500 into a proper luxury truck. Edmunds can help find the perfect 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 for you.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Overview
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 is offered in the following submodels: , , . Available styles include SLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A), SLT 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Double Cab 4WD SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Denali 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A), 4dr Double Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), Denali 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 8A), SLE 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLE 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLE 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 4dr Double Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLT 4dr Double Cab SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), 4dr Crew Cab 4WD 6.5 ft. SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), SLE 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A), and 4dr Crew Cab 5.8 ft. SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A).
What do people think of the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2018 Sierra 1500.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Sierra 1500 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Edmunds Scorecard
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2018 GMC Sierra 1500?
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $42,695. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $5,583 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,583 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$37,112.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is13.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $38,245. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $6,206 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,206 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$32,039.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is16.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $30,490. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $5,982 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,982 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$24,509.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is19.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 18 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab LB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A)
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $36,170. The average price paid for a new 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is trending $4,758 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,758 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$31,412.
The average savings for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) is13.2% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2018 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) 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 for sale near. There are currently 431 new 2018 Sierra 1500s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $30,390 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $12,846 on a used or CPO 2018 Sierra 1500 available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2018 GMC Sierra 1500s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new GMC Sierra 1500 for sale - 6 great deals out of 15 listings starting at $16,830.
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Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2018 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.
Check out GMC lease specials
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Related vehicle information
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Information
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