A light-duty pickup built from the ground up with contractors and homeowners in mind. Its four trims run from the ordinary with black bumpers and steel wheels to luxurious leather interiors and LED bed lighting.
Key Points
- The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 hit the market with four trims including its namesake, the SLE, SLT, and sumptuous Denali. Three cabs, three bed lengths, three engines, and two transmissions create a mix of hardworking configurations.
- The Sierra trim delivers all the basics such as steel wheels, bench seats, minimal radio, and an EZ Lift and Lower tailgate. This truck is engineered for the worksite.
- Explore the SLE and discover hands-free calling, Apple CarPlay, carpeted floors, and a USB port. The AutoTrac transfer case takes the work out of switching to 4WD on slippery roads.
- The SLT is designed for your bigger jobs with the 5.3L V8 engine, a beefed-up differential, and an integrated tow-prep package. You are also treated to heated leather seats and driver memory.
- The Denali is dressed to the nines with its side steps, spray-on bed liner, and ventilated leather-trimmed seats. Navigation will keep you on track and on time.
2016 GMC Sierra 1500’s Multitude of Cab, Bed, and Powertrain Configurations Create a Truck Perfect for Virtually Any Lifestyle
The 2016 GMC Sierra was built with three cab options, three bed-lengths, as 2WD or 4WD, and with three engines. The regular cab seats up to three and is paired to a long or standard box. It is offered only on the Sierra and SLE trims.
The double cab can seat up to six, but legroom in the back is limited and features the standard box. The Sierra, SLE, and SLT trims provided this choice.
Find a crew cab on all four trims with a short box or the standard box only when built with 4WD. The crew cab features four full-size doors and provides a more comfortable ride for the entire family.
The 4.3L V6 285-horsepower engine comes standard. The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 appears as an upgrade with the 4WD crew cab/standard box or on the SLT and Denali. An available 6.2L V8 engine and its 420 horsepower increase the towing capacity to 12,000 pounds with the proper equipment and configuration.
Base Sierra Delivers Minimal Style but Includes EZ Lift Tailgate and Cruise Control
The base trim for the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 starts with a six-speed automatic transmission and digital driver information display. Cloth bench seats, vinyl floors, steel wheels, and black bumpers announce its work truck class.
However, you are also treated to luxuries like air conditioning, cruise control, and Chevy’s exclusive Power Up/Power Down tailgate, which allows owners to electronically raise and lower the tailgate with one hand using a button inside the vehicle, on the key fob, or on the touchpad on the tailgate itself. Also, a lift assist function will power the tailgate closed merely by lifting up on the open gate slightly and holding it for a few seconds.
The dash on the 2016 GMC Sierra also includes a basic radio with no Bluetooth capability. A tire pressure monitoring system helps you stay safe while on the road.
Most Popular Combo of Conveniences Appear on SLE Trim, Such as Hands-free Calling and Heated Side Mirrors
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500’s SLE trim includes many popular upgrades. If you selected 4WD, it includes the AutoTrac transfer case that will activate drive to all four wheels when needed without requiring driver input. The steering wheel has controls for cruise and hands-free calling. Carpeted floors soften its appearance inside. Wheelhouse liners, LED bed lighting, and power-heated side mirrors dress up the exterior. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and a USB port connect your smartphone to the infotainment center. OnStar and SiriusXM are available for use with a paid subscription.
Get Ready to Tow in the SLT While Enjoying Seating with Leather Trim and Automatic Climate Control
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500’s SLT trim offers capability and comfort. The 5.3L V8 engine is accompanied by a heavy-duty differential, an external transmission oil cooler, and a trailer hitch prep package. The eight-speed transmission features a tow/haul mode, and the cabin has leather-appointed seating, power seat, driver memory, and automatic climate control.
Exterior accents include a chrome grille and iconic “C”-shaped daytime running lamps. The side mirrors feature puddle lights and integrated turn signals. Other perks include remote start, a security system, and a garage door opener.
Polished Denali Features Navigation, Magnetic Ride Control, and Side Steps
When you want true luxury in an eminently capable pickup, consider the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. Its magnetic ride control smooths out bumps in the road via sensors that read the terrain every millisecond, triggering damping changes in the electronic shock absorbers that replace conventional mechanical-valve shocks.
Additionally, hill descent control gives you added confidence when hauling the family travel trailer. Front and rear park assist alert you before you bump into the curb or the closed garage door. Your power leather-trimmed seat includes heat and ventilation.
Infotainment with navigation, a Bose sound system, wireless smartphone charging, and a power rear sliding window round out the interior amenities. Side steps and a spray-on bed liner complete its exterior.
Driver Assist Technology Appears Only as Part of Optional Package
The only smart driver-assist technologies offered for the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 are lane keep assist and forward collision alert. Sold as part of a package on the SLE, SLT, and Denali, it does not include adaptive cruise control or blindspot detection.
Also, the truck is missing autonomous emergency braking. If these options are key to your decision to buy, you will want to look at 2018 and newer light-duty pickups.
Get Muddy in the Standard Sierra or Wallow in Luxury in the Denali
If you are searching for a rugged worker beast of a light-duty pickup, the base 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 comes with perks not found on other trucks. Carpeted floors, cloth seats, and a dampened locking tailgate make it an attractive choice.
The SLE gives you a good blend of function and smart tech upgrades. Are you looking to haul or head off-road? The SLT adds the leather trim, driver memory, and tow prep that will take the sting out of road trips. Finally, if you want your pickup to provide as luxurious a commute as your sedan, check out the Denali.
Photos: GMC
