2005 GMC Sierra 1500 | Review | Buying Guide
There is such an array of Sierra models that it’s often difficult to know where to start. When you factor in three different cab styles, four trim levels (not including the Denali) and three weight classes, the figures reach almost mind-boggling proportions. Needless to say, GMC hasn’t skimped on choice for 2005 with its full-size pickup lineup.
The Sierra 1500 regular cab is the most basic of all the 2005 configurations. It is a two-door model with seating for up to three on one bench. This year, big seventeen-inch wheels and tires are standard on the Sierra 1500 regular cab.
Like last year, there is a Work Truck package is available on all Sierra models. It features a unique front-end appearance that sets it distinctly apart from other trim levels. The regular cab comes with Wideside cargo beds of 6.5 and 8.1 ft, or a flare-fender Sportside bed of 6.5 ft.
Under the Hood
The engine lineup doesn’t change from last year’s set of upgrades. The standard package for the base 1500 regular cab is a 4.3-liter V6 mated to either 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. The engine generates 195 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm.
The first of the two optional engines is a 4.8-liter V8 model with 285 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The second is a 5.3-liter V8. It cranks out 295 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm and only uses 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Sierra comes with rear-wheel drive or with one of two 4WD systems. The base 4WD setup must be disengaged on dry pavement. Optional Autotrac 4WD can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both systems include low-range gearing.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Base work trucks are pretty toned-down in terms of standard equipment, as their name implies. Their mission is fairly straightforward, and it doesn’t involve decadence in any way.
Moving up to the midlevel SLE model brings you such items as rear tinted glass, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated power mirrors, power windows and door locks and remote keyless entry.
An optional trailering package features items such as a heavy-duty hitch platform, an integrated electric brake connection, wiring harness and a high-capacity air cleaner.
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