Finding the Right Used Truck: Should You Pick a GMC Sierra 1500?

As modern consumers, we like to do our research. These days, looking up information on our next big purchase is as easy as breathing. We can search for manufacturer information, research data, and read countless reviews from those who’ve used a product before us. The mission then becomes not getting overwhelmed by just how much information is readily available. Since buying your next vehicle is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make, it’s key to find a way to research what you need without getting lost in the weeds.

When it comes time to shop the used market for your next truck, you’re bound to be full of questions. What brand should you buy? Which used models are the most reliable and worth your investment? Is that make and model considered to be a “good truck?” The GMC Sierra is a great truck. It has proved its worth with longevity and a reputation for being strong and dependable, but don’t just take our word for it. In an effort to put some of that research overwhelm at bay, we’ve compiled some of the research for you. These are GMC Sierra models that have clocked some years and mileage and are now ready to find their next home with you. If you’re wondering if the Sierra 1500 is a good truck, let this be your roadmap. If it’s a good fit, we’ve got a used GMC Sierra 1500 for sale that’s ready to go.

Getting to Know the GMC Sierra 1500

Today’s automotive market offers plenty of options as far as trucks. They come in many varieties, with designs revolving around specific tasks such as towing, hauling, off-roading, performance, or efficiency. When GMC designed the Sierra 1500, they knew it had to be a well-rounded truck that’s versatile; great for working hard and playing hard. The first GMC Sierra rolled off assembly lines in 1999 as a replacement for the General Motors’ C/K lineup.

When the 1500 debuted, it was immediately available as a regular cab and an extended cab model with a four-door configuration. The original truck came with either a 4.3L V6, a 4.2L V8, or a 5.3L V8. In 2005, GMC added a crew cab option. Consumer interest pushed GMC to add more high-end features like Dynamic Brake Propositioning, a four-wheel steering system, and a hybrid powertrain. They launched the Sierra Denali in 2002 to include all the best available features in one model. The evolution continued as new generations of the Sierra 1500 continued to be in high demand.

In 2007, the Sierra 1500 came out with an entirely new platform. Taking many capability ques from the Chevy Silverado, this new generation of the truck featured much faster powertrain options that range from 295 to 403 horsepower for the Denali trim. This new GMT900 platform received a full redesign of the exterior, frame, suspension, and interior. By 2009, GMC released a hybrid powertrain equipped with a 6.0L V8 and two electric motors. The popularity of the hybrid swayed GMC to start using EcoTec3 engines by the 2014 model year.

Now in its fourth generation, the GMC Sierra 1500 encompasses the capabilities that make a pickup truck great. It’s available in several trim levels that allow customers to pick and choose which features are a priority. The trims include familiar favorites like the SLE, SLT, Elevation, AT4, and the high-end Denali. The powertrains have evolved to be smaller yet more powerful and more efficient. The Sierra 1500 has also kept up with modern technology and includes all the latest in technology that allows it to do the most, like the 13,200 lb maximum towing capacity of the 2022 model.

Used Models to Consider Buying

2007 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali

People shopping in the used market want guidance for which years are good investments. If you’re looking to save money, going with an older model is the best route, as vehicles with slightly outdated tech and higher mileage are going to be priced lower than their newer counterparts. As far as the Sierra 1500 is concerned, the 2007 model year is a great starting point. As previously mentioned, the 2007 Sierra got a total makeover from the previous model, and since you’re already saving so much, you may as well spring for the Denali trim.

The third generation of the Sierra 1500 starts with the 2007 lineup. The new platform elevates the truck by enhancing its appearance, increasing fuel efficiency, and fitting it with overall better engines. The newly minted T900 platform came with four available engines paired with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. This five-passenger version has a large crew cab and a domineering exterior design featuring a large windshield and rugged grille. The Denali trim from 2007 included a 6.2L VVT V8 with an output of 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque. It’s outfitted with a six-speed automatic transmission with Overdrive and Tow/Haul Mode, as well as an all-wheel drive system. The 2007 Denali interior lives up to the quality reputation of the trim, with an automatically dimming rearview mirror, heated seats, leather upholstery, and seat memory. These features are still highly sought after today, making the 2007 an excellent choice for an older used model.

2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali

For something with more efficient powertrain options, the 2014 model year has a lot to offer drivers. Once again, the Denali is a great way to go since you’re saving tons on a vehicle that’s already nine years old. At the time of its release, the 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 full size was the most powerful and well-designed truck in GMC’s 110-year history. This was the first year to include the all-new EcoTec3 engine, advanced infotainment with the IntelliLink connectivity, and the highest grade of interior finishes. GMC redesigned the doors for 2014, adding front-hinged doors onto the Extended Cab models that greatly improved passenger comfort when getting into the truck from a tight parking spot.

The 2014 Denali included improved materials throughout the cabin and refined the storage spaces for ultimate convenience. This Denali was built with safety and driver assistance that’s still used in today’s models, including Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, StabiliTrak, and Front and Rear Park Assist. The outside mirrors include chrome caps, power-folding, driver-side auto-dimming with integrated turn signal indicators, and puddle lamps, and are heated and power-adjustable. The EZ Lift and Lower tailgate makes using it a functionality dream come true. Finally, when properly equipped, the towing capacity is a staggering 9,500 lbs.

Other Things to Consider

You can’t go wrong shopping for a used GMC Sierra 1500. The 2007 and 2014 models are just a couple examples of the quality features included in these trucks from very early on. The third and fourth generations of the Sierra 1500, all the way up to last year’s 2022 lineup, include inspiring features that help drivers tackle work, daily commuting, long trips, and off-roading. GMC has consistently upgraded the Sierra 1500 to include the best in safety, entertainment, and capability. Whether you’re using your truck to tow and haul or taking it out to explore the world around you, there are so many qualities that make the Sierra 1500 a quality truck. GMC built it with great attention to detail, so you can feel confident you’ll have a vehicle that will last you for years to come.

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