Overview & Reviews

For more than two decades, the GMC Sierra 3500HD has been GMC's most capable full-size pickup. Thanks to its stiffened suspension, sturdy frame, powerful engine choices and available dual-rear-wheel axle, the heavy-duty Sierra has been a consistent go-to choice for those with big towing and hauling needs.

But just how heavy duty it is has continued to improve over the years. Although today's Sierra looks pretty similar inside and out to the truck that debuted back in 2007, the frame, suspension components and engines were overhauled in 2011. As such, the Sierra 3500HD is getting a little long in the tooth in terms of design and interior creature comforts, but is the leader in the areas that really matter in this class.

Current GMC Sierra 3500HD
The GMC Sierra 3500HD is available in regular, extended or crew cab designs. Rear-wheel or four-wheel drive is offered, as is a dual-rear-wheel axle. The extended cab and crew cab body styles are offered in four trim levels: Work Truck, SLE, SLT and top-of-the-line Denali. The regular cabin can only be had in Work Truck and SLE trims. Moving up through the ranks obviously adds more style and features, culminating in the Denali.

Standard on all Sierra 3500HD pickups is a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The burly Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that puts out 397 hp and 765 lb-ft of torque is optional. Its standard Allison six-speed automatic is well-suited to towing and hauling large loads.

The Sierra 3500HD is arguably the most competent, refined and easy-to-drive heavy-duty pickup on the road. Although multigenerational brand loyalty may dictate which heavy-duty pickup you take home, sticking with (or switching to) the Sierra 3500HD would no doubt be a solid decision if you want a full-size heavy-duty truck.

Used GMC Sierra 3500HD Models
The present-generation GMC Sierra 3500HD debuted for the 2007 model year. Originally, the 6.0-liter gasoline V8 produced 353 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.6-liter diesel V8 was good for 365 hp and 660 lb-ft. The gasoline engine's current output arrived for 2010.

It's also important to note that for 2011 the Sierra received an all-new frame along with new suspension components (for greater towing capacity and a smoother ride), a more potent turbodiesel engine cranking out 397 hp and 765 lb-ft (previously 365 hp and 660 lb-ft) and the debut of the ultra-plush Denali trim level.

Previous to the current truck, there were two past generations of the Sierra 3500. They were still known as the 3500 but lacked the "HD" moniker.

User Reviews:

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  GMC Sierra - 2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  By Jack - March 2 - 2:06 pm

  The GMC truck is a great truck to own. Ive had it for a few months now and so far its been a good experience. Its the first time Ive had a truck with four-wheel drive and with the winter weve had, I dont know how I managed without it! The handling is excellent for a vehicle its size. Gas mileage is acceptable for this type of vehicle (3500 HD). I would certainly buy another GMC vehicle again and recommend it highly.

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  The new diesel is "wow" - 2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  By Brian - July 4 - 2:06 pm

  This non dually 3500 with the new diesel is a blast and very man like. I just purchased a 2006 3500 dump for my construction business. I love the fuel economy and the way it pulls my big trailers I didnt care for the new body style so I found a new 06. I added a pickup this month and all they had were 07 & 08. I bought the 08. Holy cow is the power different. This truck is sharp and can pull a trailer. It gets worked on job sites and I pile the mile on. Good fuel economy and pretty comfortable for a 3500. I will buy more as I update my fleet from Ford to GMC.

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  New 2007 3500 HD - 2007 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  By 8CarFan - January 1 - 12:03 am

  I bought the top model, 3500 HD, crew cab, 4wd, dually with all options. The Duramax is strong and the Allison tranny shifts smooth. Great power with acceptable mileage. The interior is a complete overhaul from the Classic models. The navigation system is addictive and the integrated brake controller is a step in the right direction. Very quiet and great driving. I rate overall a 9 out of 10. No one is perfect.

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  Dont need a Diesel ! - 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  By usapatrick - March 16 - 7:51 pm

  We shopped Ford and GMC. Bought the GMC because of build quality. Smokes the Ford in body gaps, paint, noise, warranty. Did the math on a diesel, no way for $8000. You dont see daylight for 500,000 miles. Pull a 24 enclosed with a car with the cruise control on in trailer tow mode. Absolutely love this truck. My local dealer found it for me. The paint is incredible, the interior is extremely quiet and comfortable with the leather bucket seats. The 40,000 mile warranty over the Ford has an untold value that could mean thousands. Installed headers & exhaust, K&N, Bosch Iridium plugs & Tayler 10.4 wires etc. No effect on warranty! Didnt even look at the Chevy as we own a10 GMC. Both Z71s.