The 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

3.5

The powertrain in the Sierra Denali is nothing short of impressive. With 420 hp, 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 one of the best powertrains 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

Around town, the Sierra's brakes are friendly and capable. Panic-braking tests revealed a confident, 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

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 wheels and tires don'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. Stability control 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.

comfort

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

While the seats are wide and accommodating, there's nothing particularly special about them 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

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

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

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

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

There are no real ergonomic gaffes in the Sierra Denali. Most controls fall readily to hand; the exceptions are 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 into 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

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

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 sight-line 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

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 for personal and professional needs.

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

The 5-foot-9 short 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 aid front of the bed access.

child safety seat accomodation

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.

technology

The Denali is brimming with modern technology. From the easy to use and fast-acting 8-inch touchscreen to the comprehensive safety suite to the Wi-Fi hotspot, this Sierra is a truck for modern times.

audio & navigation

3.5

The 8-inch touchscreen display gives clear and quick access to most functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, but the GMC's native system isn't wanting for much except perhaps better navigation graphics. The Bose audio system is loud enough but could have offered a bit more clarity.

smartphone integration

Whether pairing via Bluetooth or connecting through Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, connecting a device is straightforward. Once a Wi-Fi connection is established, the truck automatically connects to your device upon startup.

driver aids

3.5

The Sierra isn't lacking for much. There's a forward collision warning system, a driver's seat that vibrates for various alerts, low-speed automatic braking, lane keeping assist and automatic high-beam control. The stability control system has been bolstered with rollover mitigation technology.

voice control

The GMC's voice controls could prove frustrating from time to time, and with many controls so close at hand, they're almost unnecessary. Of course both the Apple and Android options are available and have better voice recognition.

Features & Specs

	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)	4dr Double Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A)	SLE 4dr Double Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl 6A)	SLT 4dr Double Cab SB (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
Starting MSRP	$41,855	$36,710	$45,780	$32,730	$38,010	$42,530
MPG	19	19	18	20	20	19
Seating	6	6	6	6	6	6
Transmission	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic	6-speed shiftable automatic
Fuel	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	gas	flex-fuel (FFV)	flex-fuel (FFV)	gas
Horsepower	285 hp @ 5300 rpm	285 hp @ 5300 rpm	355 hp @ 5600 rpm	285 hp @ 5300 rpm	285 hp @ 5300 rpm	355 hp @ 5600 rpm

See all 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Double Cab 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.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5/5
Driver5/5
Passenger5/5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5/5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5/5
Driver5/5
PassengerNot Rated

Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5/5
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover4/5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover17.9%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
G
Good

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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.

If you would like to know more about the current Ford F-150, read Edmunds' long-term road test of a 2018 Ford F-150 on our Long-Term Road Tests Page.

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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.

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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.

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