2010 GMC Sierra 3500 Review

Overview

The Sierra 3500 HD full-size truck enters into 2010 with a few important new equipment. They are USB connectivity in center console on up level radios, enabling stored audio files to play through the audio system and battery charging for some handheld devices, OnStar 8.2 with long-range remote start and traffic probe and two exterior colors: Storm Gray Metallic and Sheer Silver Metallic. The GMC's ace heavy-duty one-ton pick-up is available in three Cab styles: 2-3 passenger regular cab or 5-6 passenger extended cab, 5-6-passenger crew cab, 1-ton; 2- and 4-wheel-drive heavy duty pickup. The Sierra 3500HD gets more muscular styling with an aggressive grille, headlights, hood, front fenders, and a more aerodynamic raked windshield. The 2010 Sierra 3500 HD Crew Cab 4WD is a 4-door, 6-passenger full size pickup, available in 6 trims, ranging from the Work Truck Long Box SRW to the SLT Long Box DRW.

Power and performance

Power for the 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD comes from the 6-liter V8 engine that generates 360 hp and 375 lb-ft. of torque with a variable valve timing system for efficiency. The sole optional engine is a 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel, good for 365 horses and 660 lb-ft. of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered.

Body and styling

Differentiating the Sierra 3500HD is a distinct front end with a bold GMC badge; large, jeweled headlights; and chrome bumpers with body-color top. The standard Sierra dash is functional and well assembled. It offers storage; a second glove box; locking storage area beneath the center section; accessory switches; radio and ventilation controls; adjustable pedals; and a tilt wheel. Basic Work Truck amenities include a vinyl bench seat; stereo radio with XM satellite; air conditioning; six-speed automatic transmission; a tire pressure monitor; and ABS. Other trims get adjustable front head restraints; center front armrest with storage; full cloth headliner; locking glove box; cab back insulator; dome light with fade; mini overhead console; XM AM/FM/satellite radio; clock, seek-scan single in-dash mounted CD player with MP3 capability; automatic equalizer; TheftLock radio theft deterrent system with fixed antenna; retained accessory power; OnStar emergency "SOS"; Internet access capable tachometer; oil pressure gauge; engine temperature gauge; voltmeter gauge; system monitor; trip odometer; tilt steering wheel; and variable intermittent front windshield wipers.

Safety Features

Active and passive features include side impact bars; fully automatic headlamps with delay-off; pickup cargo box light; oil pressure warning; engine temperature battery warning; low coolant warning; key in ignition warning; low fuel warning, low washer fluid warning; door ajar warning; service interval warning; turn signal on warning; low tire pressure warning; transmission fluid temperature warning; 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS); daytime running lights; center high mounted stop light; driver and passenger airbags; and a Passlock II ignition disable Tracker system.