2008 GMC Sierra 1500

Is the 2008 GMC Sierra 1500 Right for You?

What Is It & Who Is It For?

The 2008 GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup that seats up to 6 people. It’s meant for drivers who want the capability and cargo versatility of a full-size pickup with a comfortable interior for passengers. There’s a choice of three bed lengths and three cab styles. Buyers also have a choice of either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).

What Makes It Unique?

In the competitive truck segment, the GMC Sierra 1500 differentiates itself from the rest with its upscale interior, especially in the Denali trim.

Sierra vs. Other GMCs

In GMC’s truck lineup, the full-size Sierra sits between the smaller GMC Canyon and the larger Sierra 2500HD and Sierra 3500HD. It offers a happy medium with higher towing and payload ratings than the Canyon, but lower ratings than the heavy-duty trucks.

Sierra 1500 vs. Competition

Full-size trucks are a popular and competitive segment with lots of options from which to choose:

• Ford F-150: Its biggest competitor.

• Chevrolet Silverado 1500: More affordable pricing.

• Ram 1500: Lower reliability ratings.

• Toyota Tundra: Fewer configuration options.

Is the 2008 Model Year Right for You?

Changes for 2008

• Standard SiriusXM satellite radio

2008 GMC Sierra 1500s vs. Older Sierra 1500s

GMC completely redesigned the Sierra 1500 for the 2007 model year. Prior model years will have different features, but any Sierra 1500 model from 2007 to 2013 will look similar and have similar features. You could save money by choosing a different model year of the Sierra 1500.

You can find used GMC Sierra 1500s with Carfax’s used car listings. Each used car comes with a free Carfax vehicle history report.

Research the Sierra 1500 from other model years

Which 2008 GMC Sierra 1500 Trim Is the Best Value?

The original starting prices for each trim, including MSRP and the destination charge:

• Work Truck: $17,590

• SL: $25,190

• SLE1: $25,215

• SLE2: $29,175

• SLT: $31,605

• Denali: $39,060

We recommend the SLE1. It has a wide range of configurations with options including a heavy-duty trailering package that gives it added capability.

Find a used GMC Sierra 1500 SLE1

Those who aren’t interested in the extra features of the SLE1 or who simply want a truck that gets the job done would do well to look at the Work Truck. It’s available in multiple configurations and is more affordable for tighter budgets.

2008 GMC Sierra 1500 Performance

Engine Options

The Sierra 1500 has multiple engine options:

• 195-horsepower 4.3-liter V6 engine paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission with RWD or 4WD

• 295-horsepower 4.8-liter V8 engine paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission with RWD or 4WD

• 315-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 engine paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission with RWD or 4WD

• 367-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 engine paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission with RWD or 4WD

• 403-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission with RWD or 4WD

Compared with the class? The Sierra 1500’s range of engine options are comparable to others in the class. The transmission has fewer gear options than the Toyota Tundra, but the Sierra 1500 has better fuel economy than the Ford F-150.

Fuel Economy

• 4.3-liter RWD/4WD: 17/15 EPA-estimated combined mpg*

• 5.3-liter RWD/4WD: 17/16 mpg

• 4.8-liter: 16 mpg

• 6.2-liter RWD/4WD: 15/14 mpg

• 6.0-liter: 15 mpg

*The EPA uses a mixture of highway and city driving for its combined estimate.

Compared with the class? The Sierra 1500’s fuel economy is above average for its class.

2008 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Ratings & Features

This generation of the GMC Sierra 1500 (2007 – 2013)) has excellent crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Key Standard Features

• Driver and front passenger airbags

• Daytime running lights

• Antilock brakes

Key Optional Features

• Side curtain airbags

2008 GMC Sierra 1500 Interior

Cabin Storage and Features

• Front cupholders

• Dual-zone automatic climate control: Optional

• Cabin storage areas: Glovebox, center console, door pockets

Compared with the class? Expected for the class.

Cargo Space

• Maximum tow rating is 10,500 pounds

• Maximum payload rating is 1,964 pounds

Compared with the class? When it comes to capability, the Sierra 1500 is average for its class.

Seating Space

Compared with the class? The Sierra 1500 has seating space typical for the class.

2008 GMC Sierra 1500 Warranty

• 3 years / 36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. Covers many parts and systems, but does not include consumables such as brakes, tires, wiper blades, shocks or struts.

• 5 years / 1000,000 miles powertrain. Covers major engine and transmission components.

• 6 years / 100,000 miles corrosion perforation. Protects against rust.

• All warranties are measured from the date the first owner purchases the car. They are transferable to used car buyers.

Compared with the class? Typical for the segment.