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2017 GMC Sierra 1500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

GMC Sierra 1500 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • High towing capacity
  • Many engine options to choose from
  • Good gas mileage

Cons

  • Uncomfortable ride on uneven terrains
  • Base trim equipped poorly
  • Poor interior feel on base model

Mileage (EPA estimate)

15 city, 20 highway, 17 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

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All GMC Sierra 1500 years

What is new for the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500?

  • Sierra 1500 trims have been upgraded with Lane Departure Warning and Tow Hitch as standard equipment this year.
  • Blu-ray Video System features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Base trim now comes with Rear View Camera and CD Audio as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500

1. Powerful engine options

A full-size pickup truck really needs some grunt behind it to live up to its full potential, and fortunately, the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 has three powerful engine options to make sure that's the case. As standard, the vehicle comes with a 4.3L V6 engine with 285 hp, which is a strong contender in itself. However, for heavier-duty adventuring, working, or towing, keep your eye out for one of the two V8 engine options: a 5.3L with 355 hp (SLT trim and up) and a 6.2L with 420 hp (optional on Denali and SLT trims).

2. Innovative bed

Depending on the configuration and trim of the vehicle, the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500's bed lengths range from 5-ft-8-inches long, 6-ft-6-inches long, or 8-ft long. There are also a bunch of additional modes and features for the bed, including a corner step rear bumper, which makes it easier to access the cargo box. There are also ergonomic hand grips to make climbing into the bed less difficult and an EZ-lift and lower tailgate to take the effort out of loading.

3. Heightened towing capability

If you're looking for a large pickup truck, you probably prioritize practical things like space, power, and towing capacity. For the 2017 model of the GMC Sierra, the towing capacity has been given a little boost. Now, the Sierra can tow up to an estimated 12,500 lbs when properly equipped, using the 6.2L V8 engine alongside the Max Trailering package.

The 5.3L engine with Max Trailering package isn't far behind, towing up to an estimated 11,100 lbs when fully equipped.
The package also includes sway control, auto-grade braking, trailering camera system integration, and more.

4. Driver-friendly interior

The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 is something of a home away from home if you want it to be, which can be deeply comforting, especially if you use the truck for work. The cab features upscale interior materials, especially with the Denali trim, and comes with all the benefits you'd expect: an eight-inch display, four-speaker audio system as standard (or optional seven-speaker Bose audio system), USB port, and the IntelliLink infotainment system that is extremely straightforward to use. Everything is thoughtfully laid out with easy access to all controls, large dials and switches can be used with gloves, and there are plenty of interior storage areas including generous door pockets, alongside bottle and laptop spaces in the center console.

5. Great front-row seating

Those in the front seat benefit from a versatile space in which to stretch out. The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali trim has the most adaptability, offering 12-way adjustable power seats and adjustable pedals so you can always find the most comfortable driving position. On the space side, standard front headroom is 42.4 inches and front leg room is an incredible 45.3 inches, meaning even very tall adults will remain comfortable.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

CarMax customers love the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500. They like the comfortable interior and spacious design.
3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the GMC Sierra 1500 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks GMC Sierra 1500 4th out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the GMC Sierra 1500

GMC Sierra 1500 features and specs

Base 2WD 2D Regular Cab

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Bed Cover
  • Bed Liner
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Long Bed
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Tow Hitch
  • Vinyl Seats

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

4.3L

Horsepower

285

Torque (ft-lbs)

305

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

26

Wheelbase

119"

Overall length

205.57"

Width

80"

Height

73.97"

Leg room

F 45.27"

Head room

F 42.4"

Front tires

P255/70R17

Rear tires

P255/70R17

Seating capacity

3

Max towing capacity

600/8900 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 FAQ

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