2023 GMC Sierra 3500HD Performance

Performance means something different when you talk about a heavy-duty pickup truck, and in this regard, the Sierra 3500HD doesn't disappoint. It has access to a decent amount of grunt from the gas engine, but the turbo-diesel with 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque is where it's really at. This gives the truck steady and nearly effortless acceleration, even when towing a heavy load, allowing the GMC Sierra 3500HD to go from 0-60 mph in an impressive 6.5 seconds, according to independent tests. However, its top speed is severely limited to just 98 mph.

As with most trucks, the Sierra has no trouble going off-road, with unlimited access to 4x4 drive and more than enough ground clearance and power to tackle most climbs. It also gets hill-descent control and other features to make this easier. And yet, it feels just as home on the road or the highway, where it can leave many other cars in its dust, though it may end up being passed by them on the highway. When properly equipped, the Sierra can tow a maximum load of up to 36,000 lbs.

Every model of the Sierra 3500HD gets a 6.6-liter V8 gasoline engine as standard. It produces a respectable 401 hp and 464 lb-ft, which is enough to move the heavy vehicle and pull a moderate load about. It won't wow you with performance, but it feels adequate around town, so long as you respect its limits. This engine is mated to a mediocre six-speed heavy-duty automatic transmission.

However, if you want more from your pickup, then the 6.6-liter V8 turbo-diesel is the way to go. It develops 445 hp and a whopping 910 lb-ft of torque. This unlocks the maximum potential of the truck, so long as you stick with a lighter overall body configuration. The diesel powertrain gets the much smoother and more intuitive 10-speed automatic transmission, and the while the Pro, SLE, and SLT can be had with rear-wheel drive, there is no restriction on the four-wheel drivetrain that is standard on upper trim levels.

Nobody buys a heavy-duty pickup for its superior fuel economy, which is why the EPA doesn't even bother to evaluate these vehicles. For that kind of information, you need to rely on real-world feedback from owners. In this light, the Sierra 3500HD seems to manage mpg figures of around 13-15 mpg with combined driving with the diesel powertrain. The gas unit is only slightly less efficient. On the plus side, the truck has a fuel capacity of 36 gallons, so you can still travel a fair distance between pricey refuels.