A Truck for All Seasons: Finding a Used GMC Sierra 1500

December 10th, 2021 by

A grey 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali driving on a highway in the mountains.

Like so many others all over the country, you might be in the market for a used truck. But not just any truck. You want something tough, dependable, and a vehicle that you can trust to go the extra mile. The situation seems simple to rectify. All you need to do is go to Guntersville Chevrolet, your local used GMC dealer, and ask one of our courteous and professional staff members, “Can I find any used Sierra 1500s here?” In theory, it all seems so simple, but then you remember that there were certain years and trims that caught your eye when they were brand new. Now, it’s the perfect time to buy one used for a slightly lower price.

The 2017 Sierra 1500 Denali Crew Cab

If anyone ever thought you had to sacrifice sophistication to get hard work done, then this is the model to prove that assumption wrong. When it comes to posh surroundings with powerful insides, this is the perfect amalgamation of both. That year, all Sierra and Silverado 1500’s were equipped with a 6.2L V-8 which was capable of 420 hp and an astounding 460 lb-ft of torque. 22” aluminum wheels highlight the truck’s high-class aesthetic, whereas a towing capacity of up to 12,500 lbs makes for handling the big jobs that life decides to throw your way. The 2017 Sierra 1500 also received higher than average safety ratings across the board. Quite possibly the highest rated full-size pickup in terms of safety, five airbags and traction control will give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll be safe.

A stylish leather interior takes the comfort normally reserved for luxury sedans and makes it ready and available. Don’t let the boisterous size of the Sierra 1500 fool you – this was the year where GMC equipped their fleet with Teen Driver Technology, allowing younger drivers to learn good driving habits with a little help from their vehicle. What better way to prepare the next generation for maneuvering around a big truck?

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab

It’s time to kick it old school. If the 2022 Sierra is the stylish new kid on the block, then the 2012 Regular Cab is the grizzled veteran who’s been through the trenches and will put up a sizable fight. Considered by many truck enthusiasts to be one of the best years for the Sierra, the 2012 model was the first to introduce StabiliTrak, which has been a GM staple in their various truck lines ever since.

A towing capacity of over 10,000 lbs and a 6.2L V-8 with active fuel management showed the industry that this truck came to do the hard jobs that required a lot of capability. Coming across one of these models remains a worthy investment even after a decade of service. Don’t take our word for it; this is the year the Sierra out-performed that Ford F-150.

A black 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 towing a golf cart on a trailer.

2014 GMC Sierra 1500

Slightly younger than the 2012 model, 2014 was a year where the GMC Sierra earned favorable reviews and was considered by several automotive experts as better than the average full-size pickup. 2014 saw the Sierra retaining its signature look on the outside that has always been exceptional in terms of aesthetic and craftsmanship. Inside, the interior took elegance up a notch with seats that were high in comfort and amenities that cater to the whims of almost any driver.

Beneath the 2014’s aluminum hood lay a 5.3 Liter EcoTec3 V-8 with a six-speed automatic transmission. While not as boisterous as some of the other motors GMC has equipped their vehicles with, this incarnation of the 16-valve V-8 still packed a considerable amount of power. Reaching 0-60 in 7 seconds and pushing forward 355 hp, this Sierra got up to 23 MPG on the highway, not too shabby for a full-sized beast.

2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD

If you’re apprehensive about buying a used GMC that might be the same age as some of your children, then the 2020 2500HD might be one of the best options available to you. Much like 2012, 2020 was one of the best years for the GMC Sierra in terms of quality and performance. 2020 was a period of rebirth for the Sierra, and GMC broke the mold in terms of crafting a new chapter in the Sierra’s storied history. A sleek new redesign gave the Sierra an aesthetic that reeked of intimidation and power, but it’s what was under the hood that set a bold new standard.

A 6.6L Turbo Diesel V-8 allowed drivers to move the earth and shake perceptions of strength to their very foundations. 910 lb-ft of torque and 445 hp allowed for a towing capacity of well over 18,000 lbs. A 10-speed automatic transmission allowed for smoother acceleration, and an available pro-grade trailer package utilized 15 different cameras to make sure that whatever you transported made its way to your destination with you, all in one piece. Independent front suspension ensured a smooth ride in the most tumultuous of conditions, and the HD AT4 trim was specifically made for the off-road enthusiast whose sense of adventure knew no limitations.

A black 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 parked in an empty lot at a used GMC dealer.

2018 GMC Sierra 1500

Before the GMC Sierra entered its second renaissance year, the 2018 model started the ball rolling towards the glorious rebirth of the worlds’ most dependable full-size pickup. A stylish interior and an unbelievably high tow rating made sure that many took notice. While there weren’t any landmark redesigns that other models are notable for, the above-average rating from critics and consumers made many gravitate towards GMC that year.

Available with a 5.3L and 6.2L V-8 and 22” wheels, this was the type of marriage of style and substance that so many drivers crave. A maximum towing capacity of 12,500 lbs means you’ll be able to tow to your heart’s content. A six-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive makes for a ride with smooth acceleration and more efficiency when carrying that heavy workload.

2010 GMC Sierra 1500

One of the best-selling models for full-size pickup trucks in 2010, this is one Sierra that’s retained its value and pedigree remarkably well. Standing on a pair of shimmering chrome wheels, it’s easy to see why this was the year that GMC stood taller than the competition. A 4.8L V8 engine provides the perfect median between unshakable power and economic performance. Flexible fuel capability paired with a two-tiered suspension system (forward independent and rear multi-leaf) and an available 6-speed automatic transmission makes for a smooth ride that won’t drain your funds at the pump.

When it comes time to do the job right, you’ll still have over 10,000 lbs of maximum towing capacity and 302 hp to tackle those big jobs during the week and play extra hard on the weekend. Electronic stability and traction control make for a balanced drive that will keep you safe and sound when you’re traveling through the woods to grandmother’s house.

With such a wide variety of trims and years to choose from, you might find it difficult to choose the perfect used GMC Sierra. Not to worry, no matter what you get behind the wheel of, you’ll have no trouble towing the heavy-duty load behind you.

Posted in Used GMC Dealer