2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Review

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Review The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 full-sized pickup is available in standard, extended and crew cab configurations with 3 different bed sizes (depending on configuration). Regular cabs offer base Work or SLE trims and extended/crew cabs are also available in the SLT trim; the SL trim falls in between the Work/SLE models and are only available in the Crew, the same as the Denali. Even the Work trim is well equipped, but optional packages and upper trims add everything a buyer could want or need.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

With a wide range of body styles and trim levels, combined with its more than capable performance, the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 competes well against its newer competitors.

What’s New For 2012:

While the GMC Sierra 1500 only received minor changes, they were great improvements; the first being a trailer sway control as part of the stability control system. The other update was to the navigational system and it is now hard-drive based.



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What is the Predicted Reliability:

In an initial quality study conducted by J.D. Power and Associates based upon owner reported issues, the GMC Sierra 1500 received an impressive 4.5 out of a possible 5 for overall initial quality, with a full 5 for features and accessories mechanical/design quality, a 4 for body and interior design quality, and a 3.5 for powertrain/body interior mechanical quality.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

In government crash tests the NHTSA gave the GMC Sierra 1500 an overall safety score of 4 Stars out of 5, with 5 Stars for side crashes and IIHS gave the Sierra a high score of “Good” for frontal-offset crash protection with a 2nd highest score of “Acceptable” in side-impact tests. The Sierra 1500 comes equipped with safety equipment including stability control, antilock brakes (front disc/rear drum), front/ side and side curtain airbags. 4-wheel disc brakes are available in the Max Trailering Package.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Powerful V8 engine options
+ Quite, smooth ride with comfortable seats
+ Excellent capabilities

Cons
– It’s a big truck so has a large turning circle
– V6 isn’t powerful
– In-cabin storage limited

Head-To-Head Competition:

The GMC Sierra 1500 has a slightly lower starting price than the RAM 1500 and Ford F-150, though has the higher max payload capacity at 1940lbs compared to the RAM with 1507lbs and the F-150 rated at 1710lbs. Max towing capabilities are the same for the Sierra and RAM 1500 at 9100lbs, with the F-150 back at 8300lbs. The GMC’s V6 generates 195hp, compared to the RAM’s slightly more powerful V6 rated at 215hp; the F-150’s V6 produces 302hp. All three offer a 3year/36,000 mile warranty.

What Others Are Saying:

"GM’s full-size pickup trucks (Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra) are aging in the face of newer trucks from Dodge and Ford. Despite this, the GM twins are still compelling because of their excellent engines, tasteful styling, and spacious interiors." – Car and Driver

"The crew cab provided ample interior space for both front and rear passengers and for hauling groceries. As I was in the process of moving, I filled the bed with my large items and hauled them to my new place. The added height from the off-road suspension option worked well for setting and picking items up when loading and unloading." – AutoWeek

Read more about the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, at the GMC manufacturer site.


 

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