2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD Review

The Sierra, and its twin the Silverado have been on the full-size truck market since 1962. The latest generation came out in 2007. It was the first full redesign since 1999. With last year's update, the Sierra 2500 HD received a major boost in interior quality. Also, heavy-duty V8 engines options are available offering 355hp or the turbodiesel with 365 hp and 660 lb-ft f torque.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The GMC Sierra 2500HD is a powerful, competent truck. It's surprisingly light on its feet, handling as well as its little brother. It has top-notch towing and hauling capacity. If you need this kind of power, don't hesitate to give the Sierra 2500HD a spin.

What's New For 2008:

XM Radio is now standard. A power driver seat is now available on regular cab models. Two new colors are available: Dark Crimson Metallic and Sonoma Red Metallic.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$26,595

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
3

Gas Mileage:
NA/NA

Engine:
6.0L V8

Horsepower:
360@5400RPM

Torque:
380@4200RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
34

Fuel Type:
diesel

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/100000

Rust Warranty:
72/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Sierra 3 stars for overall quality. Problems with the last generation included transmissions popping out of gear, and vehicle shake. It was recalled 16 times. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available for the 2500. The Sierra 1500 received 5 stars in government crash tests. Anti-lock brakes are standard. Parking assistance and adjustable pedals are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Powerful
+ Smooth ride
+ Nice interior quality

Cons
- Limited safety features
- Typically mediocre domestic pickup reliability
- No real innovation

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD is nearly identical, with the same powertrain and features. The Dodge Ram 3500 ST includes air conditioning and can haul more, but costs a few thousand more, has 20 less hp, and lacks navigation. The Ford F-350 SD costs the same, but lacks a CD player ,navigation, and has 50 less hp.

What Others Are Saying:

"If you want the capability of a big pickup with the least sensation of driving a big pickup, the Sierra HD deserves consideration. In a world run amuck for ever-larger trailers and powerplants, it's a sensible alternative for anyone who needs to haul stuff but doesn't want a special driver's license to do it." - The New York Times

"GM's Heavy Duty pickups (Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD) resemble their half-ton kin, but everything underneath is beefed up to haul more payload and tow up to 13,000 pounds. A Silverado 1500 won our last pickup comparo, and the HD version is more rugged but just as refined, so it too is at the top of its class." - Car and Driver

"Most buyers will and should opt for the Duramax diesel paired to the six-speed Allison automatic. It's one monster of a motor, delivering 365 hp and 660 lb.-ft. of torque. It's the strongest heavy-duty diesel engine you can buy. And it moves these trucks like muscle cars... On the road or off, the GM heavy-duty pickups make tackling any job easy. And it's this effortless capability that makes them our favorites." - Popular Mechanics

Read more about the 2008 GMC Sierra 2500HD at the GMC manufacturer web site.

Published on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 - Email to a friend

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