Updates are coming to the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 lineup - the most notable of which is a newly standard diesel engine for the 2024 Sierra 1500 AT4X luxury off-roader. GMC says the diesel will deliver more power and torque, extending the pickup's off-road capability. (CarPro Show host just reviewed the 2023 Sierra AT4X which is equipped with a 6.2-liter V8.)
3.0L Duramax Engine
The updated 3.0L Duramax diesel engine was first introduced on select 2023 Sierra 1500 trims. It's mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and delivers max power of 305 horsepower (a 10% increase compared to 2022), and max 495 pound-feet or torque, (a 7.6% increase from 2022).
“The 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine has long been a favorite of Sierra light duty owners,” said Will Mellon, marketing manager, GMC Sierra. “Since the launch of the refined Duramax for the 2023 model year, around 20% of all Sierra 1500s sold have come with the engine and we expect its addition to the AT4X trim to take mix even higher.”
GMC says it upgraded key components including:
- New steel pistons with a revised combustion bowl
- Retuned turbo compressor
- New fuel injectors
- Improved temperature control features
“These refinements of the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine took an already awesome engine and made it even better for off-road applications,” said John Barta, GM assistant chief engineer, Diesel Engines. “The outstanding low-end torque combined with the smooth and quiet power of this diesel engine, make it ideal for customers requiring on-road capability for things like towing, as well as off-road adventures like long-distance overlanding.”
The diesel engine is assembled at GM’s Flint Engine Operations plant in Michigan. It will be available on the later this summer.
GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X
The GMC Sierra 1500 AT4X is a very capable, luxury off-roader that could be used to carry corporate clients, as CarPro Show host Jerry Reynolds' notes in his recent 2023 AT4X review:
Standard features include Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear e-locking differentials. The AT4X Obsidian Rush interior features full grain leather-wrapped massaging front seats, authentic ash wood trim, a 12-speaker Bose Premium Series audio system and more than 40 diagonal inches of combined digital displays.
Other 2024 Updates
The 2024 model year also brings additional new features across the Sierra 1500 lineup, including:
- New power retractable assist steps on Denali, Denali Ultimate, AT4 and AT4X
- Available active exhaust for Denali, Denali Ultimate, AT4, AT4X and SLT
- Two additional premium aluminum wheels
- Two new unique and bold exterior paint colors, Downpour Metallic and Thunderstorm Gray
GMC also says for the 2024 model year, the 2.7L Turbo High-Output Engine is being re-branded with the name TurboMax. It delivers 310 horsepower, a best-in-class standard torque rating of 430 pound-feet, and max available towing of 9,500 pounds.
Photo Credit: GMC.