2013 GMC Sierra 1500

header-image
$23,590 - $51,935
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on November 3, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Practical utility

Underpowered V6 engine

Updated OnStar 9.0 system

Impressive Towing capabilities

Average cabin quality on the base trim

No major changes

Optional V8 engine

Fuel economy

Comfortable Ride quality

Specs & Features

$32,705

price

315 hp @ 5200 rpm

horsepower

335 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

torque

6-Speed Automatic w/od

transmission

5.3L 8cyl 4WD 6A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The GMC Sierra 1500 has become outdated against the newer rivals in the segment. GMC launches vehicles that are identical to the Chevy counterparts as both are owned by General Motors. The only thing that differentiates them is that GMC offers a more upscale interior and cabin quality. The modern competitors are better in these aspects than the Sierra 1500, but still, it is one of the strong contenders in the segment.

Buying Advice

As the Work Truck is a rugged version of the GMC Sierra, you should go for the SLE trim as it comes with a standard V8 engine and various cabin features. The package also includes exterior chrome accents, chrome grille, and fog lamps. Inside the cabin, you get premium upholstery, an OnStar navigation system, and tinted windows. The suspension package adds better comfort and rides control to the Sierra while towing. The AWD system provides better off-road capabilities.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

With its powerful engines and trailering capabilities, it is quite popular in its segment. 2013 will mark the end of its third generation where GMC is offering it for the last time. The Sierra 1500 Work Truck has a starting price of $23,590 for the Regular cab. It is available in two trim levels with optional AWD and different engines. With its competitive package, it rivals the likes of the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and the RAM 1500.

Features
8.0/10

The 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab is available in two trims levels with 2 wheelbase options. The Work Truck is a basic pickup truck with limited features and options. Still, it is a capable pickup with an amazing towing capacity. You get decent comfort levels and practical cabin space. The SLE trim is focused on styling and convenience with its standard and optional features. It offers similar performance, space, and comfort in a slightly better form.

Trims

Work Truck

SLE

MSRP (RWD)

$23,590

$29,610

MSRP (AWD)

$27,530

$33,115

Key Features

17-inch steel wheels with all-season tires

20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels

 

Cruise control

Premium cloth upholstery

 

Curtain side-impact airbags

OnStar turn by turn navigation

 

Daytime running lights

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

 

SiriusXM radio 

Solar ray deep tinted windows

 

Dark titanium vinyl seat trim

Chrome exterior accents

 

Suspension package with 35mm piston twin tube shocks

Suspension package with 46mm monotube piston suspension

We recommend

As the Work Truck is a rugged version of the GMC Sierra, you should go for the SLE trim as it comes with a standard V8 engine and various cabin features. The package also includes exterior chrome accents, chrome grille, and fog lamps. Inside the cabin, you get premium upholstery, an OnStar navigation system, and tinted windows. The suspension package adds better comfort and rides control to the Sierra while towing. The AWD system provides better off-road capabilities.

Engine and Performance
9.4/10

The 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Work Truck is decently capable on the road. The Vortec 4.3L V6 engine powers the rear wheels with an output of 195hp @ 4,600 rpm. It has a torque output of 260 pound-feet at just 2,800 rpm. The SLE trim upgrades the performance with its Vortec 4.8L flex-fuel V8. This one outputs 302hp of peak power with 305lb-ft torque. Both the engines are mated to a 4-Speed automatic transmission with overdrive. 

Both the engines deliver amazing capabilities as the Sierra 1500 can tow up to 9,800 lbs of trailer weight when equipped properly. With the AWD system, the pickup truck becomes capable in off-road conditions. The base 195hp V6 can do a top speed of 110 mph where it reaches a speed of 60 mph in 9.2 seconds and does a quarter-mile in 16.9 seconds. With the 302hp V8, it gets athletic with its 8.7 seconds of 0-60 mph run and takes 15.8 seconds in the quarter-mile run.

Models

GMC Sierra 1500

Ford F-150

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

RAM 1500

MSRP

$23,590

$24,070

$23,590

$23,100

Engine

Vortec 4.3L V6 Regular

3.7L V6 Regular

Vortec 4.3L V6 Regular

4.7L V8 Regular/ Ethanol

Transmission

4-Speed automatic w/od

6-Speed automatic w/od

4-Speed automatic w/od

6-Speed automatic w/od

Drivetrain

RWD

RWD

RWD

RWD

Power

195hp @ 4600 RPM

302hp @ 6500 RPM

195hp @ 4600 RPM

310hp @ 5650 RPM

Torque

260lb-ft @ 2800 RPM

278lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

260lb-ft @ 2800 RPM

330lb-ft @ 3950 RPM

0-60 MPH (seconds)

9.2

8.6

9.2

8.4

Quarter mile (seconds)

16.9

15.8

16.9

15.5

Top Speed (MPH)

110

120

110

120

The base engine on the GMC Sierra 1500 is underpowered as compared to the rivals. However, it is quite capable in terms of towing as the peak torque is available at the lower end of the rave band. The RAM 1500 boasts the maximum power from the V8 engine where the Ford F-150 takes the second spot with its V6. As the Silverado 1500 is identical to the Sierra 1500, there's no difference in terms of performance. With its V8 engine, the Sierra becomes more capable and agile. The 302 hp not only delivers better acceleration, but it also outperforms its rivals in terms of towing capacity as it can tow more than the rivals.

Fuel Economy
6.0/10

The GMC Sierra 1500 is quite capable on the road. It will fetch you a decent fuel economy with the available engine options. The base 19hp V6 delivers 15 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the highway, and a combined economy of 17 mpg. The passive 26.0-gallon back barely pushes it behind 500 in terms of highway range. The V8-powered Sierra 1500 may not deliver a similar economy, still, it ain't that bad if you consider the power boost. The 302hp engine provides 14 mpg in the city, 19 mpg on the highway, and a combined economy of 16 mpg. With this one, you have a decent mileage as well where you get 494 miles of maximum range.

Models

GMC Sierra 1500

Ford F-150

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

RAM 1500

MPG City

15

17

15

14

MPG Highway

20

23

20

20

MPG Combined

17

19

17

16

Fuel Capacity (gallons)

26.0

26.0

26.0

26.0

Range (City/Highway/ Combined) in miles

390/520/442

442/598/494

390/520/442

364/520/416

As compared to the power-packed rivals, the GMC Sierra 1500 isn't offering anything special. Even the 302hp Ford F-150 delivers a better fuel economy. Being its counterpart, the Chevy Silverado 1500 has a similar economy. The RAM 1500 comes standard with a 395hp Hemi engine, which delivers an economy similar to the 302hp V6 of the GMC Sierra 1500. 

Interior
9.4/10

With Regular cab, the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 welcomes 3 people inside its practical cabin space. From a rugged cabin with the base trim, the Sierra offers a premium cabin with higher trims. The WT trim has a dark titanium vinyl upholstery where the SLE trim brings in ebony and cashmere interior accents. 

All the functions are placed on the flat dashboard including the column gear shifter. The center stack is filled with numerous controls including the music system and the HVAC. The dashboard has various storage spaces including a huge glove box. The 4 spoke steering wheel wraps itself in leather with the SLE trim. 

The 40-20-40 split-bench seat seats 3 passengers comfortably. You can convert it into a 2 seater by pulling out the armrest from the center. Furthermore, the armrest has storage space and dual cup holders as well. The seats can be reclined manually as per your choice. We get vinyl upholstery with the WT where the SLE offers premium cloth upholstery.

Models

GMC Sierra 1500

Ford F-150

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

RAM 1500

Seating capacity

3

3

3

3

Front row (Headroom/ Shoulder room/ Legroom) inches

41.5/65.2/41.3

41.0/66.6/41.4

41.5/65.2/41.3

40.3/66.0/41.0

Cargo capacity (cubic feet)

60.7

65.4

60.7

57.5

The Regular cab pickups generally offer a similar 3 person seating capacity. In terms of seating space, both GMC Sierra 1500 and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are spacious and comfortable. You have a massive headroom that ensures proper visibility and head clearance from the roof. The legroom is decent as well. However, the Ford F-150 and the RAM 1500 have wider seats as they offer better shoulder room. Highlight Interior features in the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab:

  • First row 3-person bench seat
  • Premium cloth upholstery
  • Cruise control
  • Driver lumbar support
  • Proper visibility
  • Sophisticated dashboard design
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel

How intuitive is the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab's Infotainment?

The 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 WT is pretty basic in terms of infotainment features. To keep you entertained, you have Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM radio with seek-scan whereas a SiriusXM radio subscription is optional. Moreover, a CD player is available with MP3 playback, a USB port, and an input jack.

The SLE trim gets most of these features as standard with the SLE preferred package. There's an OnStar turn-by-turn navigation system with a 6-month subscription for your assistance. As standard, we have a 4 speaker audio system for music. The SLE trim gets an optional Bose premium audio system. Highlight Infotainment features in the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab:

  • AM/FM radio
  • SiriusXM radio
  • CD player
  • OnStar turn by turn navigation
  • Bose premium speakers

Exterior
9.4/10

As GMC is the premium vehicle division of General Motors, GMC is one step up in terms of design and quality. The Sierra 1500 is identical to the Silverado 1500 where GMC adds tons of chrome to the exterior of its trucks. Also, we have huge GMC badging all over the truck which replaces the Chevy logo.

If we talk about the base Work Truck trim, the only difference between the Sierra 1500 and Silverado 1500 is the front grille and a bigger bumper. Its split headlamps design looks amazing with colored trim signals and daytime running lamps. The SLE trim adds a chrome surround grille and bumpers with front fog lamps.

Both the trims are available in 9 premium color options. The WT truck rides on 17-inch steel wheels with all-season tires. On the SLE trim, you can either avail the similar steel wheels with chrome lugs and caps or you can opt for the 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels. However, the 20-inch wheels are not available with the off-road package.

Models

GMC Sierra 1500

Ford F-150

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

RAM 1500

Curb weight (lbs)

4,436

4,685

4,460

4,729

Length (inches)

205.6

213.2

205.6

209.0

Width (inches)

80.0

79.2

79.9

79.4

Height (inches)

73.6

74.8

73.6

74.6

Ground clearance (inches)

8.2

8.8

8.2

8.7

Wheelbase (inches)

119.0

125.9

119.0

120.5

The GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab is available in two wheelbase options where you get two different cargo bed sizes. The base trim has a 78.7-inch cargo bed with its 119.0-inch wheelbase. If you want better space, you can avail the 97.8-inch cargo bed with a 133.0-inch wheelbase. 

As compared to the rivals, the GMC Sierra 1500 Regular cab is comparatively lighter. In terms of standard length, both the Ford F-150 and the RAM 1500 are a few inches longer. To make it stand out, GMC has made the Sierra 1500 wider. Even with a good enough ground clearance, the Sierra 1500 ain't that tall. Highlight Exterior features in the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab:

  • Split headlamps with DRL
  • Chrome exterior accents
  • 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels
  • All season tires
  • Fog lamps

Safety
7.1/10

The GMC Sierra 1500 is constructed with reinforced steel. The steel safety cage ensures the integrity of the passenger compartment and is made to withstand collisions by absorbing the impact energy. The NHTSA has rated the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 with 4 Stars for its safety. Also, it has received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS.

With 6 standard airbags that work with a rollover sensor, the Sierra 1500 protects the passengers inside its cabin. With that, you get StabiliTrak stability control with traction control, trailer sways control, Proactive roll avoidance and hill start assist. There's a tire pressure monitoring system as well. All the safety features are offered as standard. Standout Safety features in the 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab:

  • Reinforced steel safety cage
  • 6 standard airbags
  • Trailer sway control
  • Hill-start assist
  • Tire pressure monitoring system

Final Verdict

The GMC Sierra 1500 is similar to the Chevy Silverado 1500 in every aspect. GMC distinguishes by giving their trucks more appealing exterior and premium interiors. Also, you have better standard and optional features. With the two available engine options, it delivers exceptional off-road and towing capabilities. The cabin quality and features improve as we move up the trim. The GMC Sierra feels outdated compared to its rivals, but it is still a great choice in the segment. 

Trims

    Work Truck
    $23,590 onwards
    • 17-inch painted steel Wheels
    • AM/FM stereo
    • Manual front air conditioning
    • Vinyl Seat trim
    SLE
    $29,610 onwards
    • 17-inch x 7.5-inch styled steel wheels
    • Driver Lumbar support
    • Premium cloth Seat trim
    • Siriusxm AM/FM/Satellite
    SL
    $32,020 onwards
    • Engine: 4.8L 8cyl 4WD 4A
    • Horsepower: 302 hp @ 5600 rpm hp
    • Torque: 305 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 8 sec
    • Top Speed: 112 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 15 mpg
    XFE
    $36,440 onwards
    • Engine: 5.3L 8cyl RWD 6A
    • Horsepower: 315 hp @ 5200 rpm hp
    • Torque: 335 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7.7 sec
    • Top Speed: 107 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 18 mpg
    SLT
    $37,325 onwards
    • Engine: 5.3L 8cyl 4WD 6A
    • Horsepower: 315 hp @ 5200 rpm hp
    • Torque: 335 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7.5 sec
    • Top Speed: 116 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 17 mpg
    Base
    $41,555 onwards
    • Engine: 6.0L 8cyl 4WD 4A
    • Horsepower: 332 hp @ 5100 rpm hp
    • Torque: 367 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 7.3 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 21 mpg
    Denali
    $46,430 onwards
    • Engine: 6.2L 8cyl AWD 6A
    • Horsepower: 403 hp @ 5700 rpm hp
    • Torque: 417 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 6 sec
    • Top Speed: 107 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 14 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$31,045- $50,740

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.67

Horsepower

322 hp @ 4400 rpm

Torque

380 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

Capacity

3

Read Review

$31,045- $47,785

Gasoline

7.6

397 hp @ 3000 rpm

765 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

3

Read Review

$23,590- $51,490

Gasoline

7.77

195 hp @ 4600 rpm

260 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm

3

Read Review

$23,590- $51,935

Gasoline

7.63

403 hp @ 5700 rpm

417 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm

6

Read Review

$44,035- $46,935

Gasoline

8.58

411 hp @ 5500 rpm

434 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm

6

Read Review

$29,550- $46,665

Gasoline

7.2

360 hp @ 5400 rpm

380 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

3

Read Review

$24,070- $53,300

Gasoline

7.98

360 hp @ 5500 rpm

278 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

3

Read Review

$29,420- $52,675

Gasoline

6.9

383 hp @ 5600 rpm

400 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

3

Read Review

$29,550- $50,010

Gasoline

7.87

360 hp @ 5400 rpm

380 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

3

Read Review

$30,105- $53,990

Gasoline

7.29

383 hp @ 5600 rpm

400 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

-

Read Review

2013 GMC Sierra 1500 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    8.2 sec16.2 sec110 mph
    6.4 sec-169 mph
    2013 RAM 2500

    Ranked #2

    6.6 sec--
    6.8 sec15.3 sec-
    7.1 sec-162 mph
    7.1 sec-162 mph

    2013 GMC Sierra 1500 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      15 mpg20 mpg17 mpg26 gal.390/520 mi.
      17 mpg23 mpg19 mpg26 gal.442/598 mi.
      15 mpg20 mpg17 mpg26 gal.390/520 mi.
      12 mpg18 mpg15 mpg36 gal.-
      11 mpg16 mpg13 mpg26 gal.286/416 mi.
      ---36 gal.-

      2013 GMC Sierra 1500 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        205.6 in.80 in.73.6 in.7.7 in.119 in.
        2013 RAM 3500

        Ranked #1

        231 in.78.9 in.77.9 in.9 in.140 in.
        2013 RAM 2500

        Ranked #1

        231 in.78.9 in.73.3 in.7.6 in.140.5 in.

        2013 Ford F-350 SuperDuty

        Ranked #2

        227.6 in.104.9 in.76.5 in.-137 in.

        2013 Ford F-250 SuperDuty

        Ranked #2

        227.6 in.79.9 in.76.6 in.8.5 in.137 in.
        225 in.80 in.77.6 in.9.1 in.133.7 in.

        2013 GMC Sierra 1500 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          60.7 cu.ft.101.1 cu.ft.60.7 cu.ft.
          75.5 cu.ft.101.5 cu.ft.323.1 cu.ft.
          75.5 cu.ft.157.2 cu.ft.103.3 cu.ft.
          9.1 cu.ft.39.7 cu.ft.55.4 cu.ft.
          6.9 cu.ft.76.5 cu.ft.65.5 cu.ft.
          2013 RAM 3500

          Ranked #4

          --69.5 cu.ft.

          2013 GMC Sierra 1500 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            60.7 cu.ft.60.7 cu.ft.60.7 cu.ft.79 ft.
            2013 RAM 3500

            Ranked #2

            69.5 cu.ft.-69.5 cu.ft.82 ft.
            323.1 cu.ft.75.5 cu.ft.323.1 cu.ft.98 ft.
            103.3 cu.ft.75.5 cu.ft.103.3 cu.ft.98 ft.
            12 cu.ft.12 cu.ft.12 cu.ft.98 ft.
            57.3 cu.ft.60.7 cu.ft.60.7 cu.ft.79 ft.

            2013 GMC Sierra 1500 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Gooseneck/5th Wheel Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              9100 lbs.-1940 lbs.4436 lbs.
              2013 RAM 2500

              Ranked #1

              18350 lbs.-3170 lbs.5464 lbs.
              17800 lbs.10200 lbs.3670 lbs.5615 lbs.
              17800 lbs.10200 lbs.3685 lbs.5615 lbs.
              14500 lbs.-4625 lbs.-
              14200 lbs.9600 lbs.7222 lbs.6178 lbs.

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