Main Navigation beebs
Skip to main content

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

GMC Sierra 1500 highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • High towing capacity
  • Many engine options to choose from
  • Good gas mileage

Cons

  • Uncomfortable ride on uneven terrains
  • Base trim equipped poorly
  • Poor interior feel on base model

Mileage (EPA estimate)

15 city, 20 highway, 17 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year
Mileage

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

All GMC Sierra 1500 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each GMC Sierra 1500 generation from 2013 to 2026

What is new for the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500?

  • Sierra 1500 trims have been upgraded with Lane Departure Warning and Tow Hitch as standard equipment this year.

GMC Sierra 1500 photos

5 reasons to buy the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500

1. Powerful engine options

A full-size pickup truck really needs some grunt behind it to live up to its full potential, and fortunately, the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 has three powerful engine options to make sure that's the case. As standard, the vehicle comes with a 4.3L V6 engine with 285 hp, which is a strong contender in itself. However, for heavier-duty adventuring, working, or towing, keep your eye out for one of the two V8 engine options: a 5.3L with 355 hp (SLT trim and up) and a 6.2L with 420 hp (optional on Denali and SLT trims).

2. Innovative bed

Depending on the configuration and trim of the vehicle, the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500's bed lengths range from 5-ft-8-inches long, 6-ft-6-inches long, or 8-ft long. There are also a bunch of additional modes and features for the bed, including a corner step rear bumper, which makes it easier to access the cargo box. There are also ergonomic hand grips to make climbing into the bed less difficult and an EZ-lift and lower tailgate to take the effort out of loading.

3. Heightened towing capability

If you're looking for a large pickup truck, you probably prioritize practical things like space, power, and towing capacity. For the 2017 model of the GMC Sierra, the towing capacity has been given a little boost. Now, the Sierra can tow up to an estimated 12,500 lbs when properly equipped, using the 6.2L V8 engine alongside the Max Trailering package.

The 5.3L engine with Max Trailering package isn't far behind, towing up to an estimated 11,100 lbs when fully equipped.
The package also includes sway control, auto-grade braking, trailering camera system integration, and more.

4. Driver-friendly interior

The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 is something of a home away from home if you want it to be, which can be deeply comforting, especially if you use the truck for work. The cab features upscale interior materials, especially with the Denali trim, and comes with all the benefits you'd expect: an eight-inch display, four-speaker audio system as standard (or optional seven-speaker Bose audio system), USB port, and the IntelliLink infotainment system that is extremely straightforward to use. Everything is thoughtfully laid out with easy access to all controls, large dials and switches can be used with gloves, and there are plenty of interior storage areas including generous door pockets, alongside bottle and laptop spaces in the center console.

5. Great front-row seating

Those in the front seat benefit from a versatile space in which to stretch out. The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali trim has the most adaptability, offering 12-way adjustable power seats and adjustable pedals so you can always find the most comfortable driving position. On the space side, standard front headroom is 42.4 inches and front leg room is an incredible 45.3 inches, meaning even very tall adults will remain comfortable.

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 garners praise for smooth handling, strong engine performance, and comfort. Common pros include power, quiet cabin ride, and interior space. Fuel economy and transmission response are noted cons. Customers value its reliability and styling but find maintenance costs and high pricing drawbacks.
3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the GMC Sierra 1500 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks GMC Sierra 1500 4th out of 19 among Fullsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the GMC Sierra 1500

GMC Sierra 1500 features and specs

SLE 2D Regular Cab 2WD

Standard Features

  • Power Locks
  • Power Windows
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS Brakes
  • Cloth Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Rear View Camera
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Rear Defroster
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Parking Sensors
  • Remote Start
  • Cloth Seats
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Bed Liner
  • Long Bed
  • Tow Hitch
  • Bed Cover
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Navigation System
  • Apple CarPlay

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

4.3L

Horsepower

285

Torque (ft-lbs)

305

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

26

Wheelbase

119"

Overall length

205.57"

Width

80"

Height

73.97"

Leg room

F 45.27"

Head room

F 42.4"

Front tires

P255/70R17

Rear tires

P255/70R17

Seating capacity

3

Max towing capacity

600/8900 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2017 GMC Sierra 1500 FAQ

The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of between 8600 and 12000 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 has received an average 4.5 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2017 GMC Sierra 1500, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews.
The GMC Sierra 1500 received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the GMC Sierra 1500 as 4 out of 19 among Fullsize Truck
Here are the pros and cons of the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500: Pros - Ride and Handling - Power - Fuel Economy Cons - Fuel Economy - Value - Reliability
Here is what's new for the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500:
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Tow Hitch
The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 offers the following fuel efficiency options: • Gas: 18 city / 24 highway MPG (Base trim) • Gas: 16 city / 22 highway MPG (Denali trim) • Gas: 18 city / 24 highway MPG (SLE trim) • Gas: 16 city / 23 highway MPG (SLT trim) Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle condition, and driving habits.

Research other vehicles



* Price excludes tax, title, tags and $999 CarMax processing fee (not required by law). Price assumes that final purchase will be made in the State of VA, unless vehicle is non-transferable. Vehicle subject to prior sale. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions. Limited warranty is 30 days. See store for details. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.