2012 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab offers two engines and two drivetrain options. The Work truck begins the Sierra 1500 portfolio, with the most basic version priced at $23,190. The SLE is slightly pricier, with the 4WD model priced at $31,520. The vehicle comes in two-bed options too- 119” and 133”. You can upgrade to the long-bed variant for an extra $390.

The GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Work Truck is loaded with exciting goodies like a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, OnStar telematics, vinyl seat upholstery, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, and a CD/MP3 stereo with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio.

The SLE upgrades to more premium grade seat upholstery and adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SLE trim also features a lockable compartment incorporated in the center cushion of the split front seat and hides a power outlet built into it.

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The SLE trim is the best manner to own the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab, with a big reason being the powerful V8 engine that has better capabilities than the standard V6. The premium cloth upholstery is a worthy upgrade for added comfort and aesthetics.

Under the bonnet of the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab, one would find the unchanged yet commanding 4.3L Naturally Aspirated V6 block that powers the pickup with 195-hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A secondary engine option includes a punchier 4.8-liter V8 that makes 302 hp and 305 lb-ft. Both the engine blocks are coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission with power being sent to the rear wheels as standard. But for extra cash, buyers can also opt for the 4WD system. 

The Work Truck also features a traditional floor-mounted selector for the transfer case, while the 4WD systems get Autotrac, an intuitive system that automatically switches into 4WD modes when slip is detected. The V6 engine is refined and powerful, with lots of torque being dumped at lower revs itself. 

The GMC Sierra 1500 in its basic form, takes 9.3-seconds to complete the 0-60 mph deed, while the brawnier V8 shells out a full second. The muscular engines can tow at least 6,400 lbs and the same capacity rises to a walloping 10,700 pounds when properly equipped. Besides strength, the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 also offers car-like driving dynamics and handling, making it more nimble and agile than what’s expected off a truck.

The buyers looking for pure muscle power would love to drive in the Ford F-150, which is also the quickest in the lot. On paper, the comparison makes the GMC twins slightly underwhelming to RAM 1500. RAM 1500 also comes with a 3.7L V6, making more power on paper. But in reality, it is a lot slower than the GM twins. But behind the wheels, the Sierra and Chevrolet’s light steering feel is more feasible for longer overhauls.

The pickup trucks bring strength and muscle apt for Jobsite workhorses, but the same capabilities take a toll on the fuel economy. The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab manages to be less stressful in terms of economy. The fuel estimates range from a 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway with the RWD system to a 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway with the 4WD system. The 26-gallon fuel tank also helps the Sierra 1500 squeeze out more than 400 miles on a full tank.

The Ford F-150 manages to be zippy, muscular, and now fuel-efficient too, making the podium-top reserved for itself. The GM twins offer decent economy too, but they are definitely better than the RAM 1500. Despite coming with an underpowered engine, the RAM 1500 does not provide satisfactory fuel economy.

Step into the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab and you'll be fascinated by the practical and the on-point concept of the interior. The fit and finish are ranked highly in the class. Since it’s a regular cab, it can only seat 3 souls on the front 40/20/40-split front bench seat. Ditch one friend and the middle seat can be folded down to be an armrest. 

The upright dash is basic and is dominated by hard, scratchy plastics. As standard, the vehicle comes with a trip computer, a tilt steering wheel, OnStar telematics, and vinyl upholstery. The SLT trim gets you premium upholstery, a lockable compartment with a power outlet, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. All niceties are reserved for the crew cab models.

In terms of space, each of the regular cab iterated rivals offers ample space for three to fit in with ease, and room to store luggage inside the cabin. All trucks in the competition can seat three and when it comes to cargo space, Ford F-150 offers 65.5 cu ft while the RAM 1500 offers the lowest cargo capacity at 57.5 cu ft. Standout interior features include:

• 40/20/40 split-bench front seats w/center fold-down armrest
• Vinyl seats
• Leather-wrapped wheel
• Front passenger assist handle
• Single-zone manual front climate control
• Interior Lighting w/dome and reading lights
• Remote vehicle starter prep package w/Remote Keyless Entry

How intuitive is the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab’s infotainment unit?

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab entertains the crowd with a CD/MP3 stereo with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio in entry-level Work Truck attire. There’s a 4-speaker audio system to broadcast the radio or tune in and groove while rushing to the next destination. That’s all about the infotainment for it is a workhorse, not a luxury car. Standout infotainment features include:

• Infotainment system w/AM/FM stereo
• 4-speaker audio system
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio w/3 months of trial service
• OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation
• MP3 CD/DVD player

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab is a huge follower of subtle and elusive concepts, which is why the exterior looks are very basic and simplistic. The boxy truck loves rectangles, estimated by the big chunky front that is rectangular, with rectangular grille and headlights. From the sides, the big, squared wheel arches make even 17-inch wheels feel small. The rear hosts narrow taillights with “GMC” and “Sierra” badges embossed on bottom corners.

In terms of road presence, each of these nameplates is more concentrated on being practical than being blingy. The Ford F-150 has the biggest footprint and the highest ground clearance adding to the ruggedness in the looks. The Sierra also, despite the traditional boxy attire, makes a great first impression. Standout exterior features include:

• Dual halogen composite with automatic exterior lamp control
• Dual cargo area lamps
• Heated power-adjustable power-folding mirrors
• Grille and front and rear bumper chrome surround
• Solar-Ray deep-tinted glass
• 17-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab prioritizes safety over other aspects of the pickup. The NHTSA has awarded an impressive overall score of four stars out of a maximum 5-star score. IIHS has tagged the pickup with a top score of "Good" on various grounds, but it lacked an “Acceptable” score for side-impact testing. The Sierra 1500 comes with standard features like anti-lock brakes (front disc, rear drum) and stability control along with front, side, and side curtain airbags. Standout safety features include:

• StabiliTrak stability control system w/Proactive Roll Avoidance
• Traction control w/electronic trailer sway control and hill start assist
• Automatic Crash Response
• Stolen Vehicle Assistance and Remote Ignition Block
• Emergency Services and Crisis Assist
• Tire Pressure Monitor System

The GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab does put up a great fight in its respective segment, but rivals like F-150 are more premium and proficient. The interiors are functional and utilitarian, while the wide array of choices lets the buyer configure its truck that suits best for his business. The safety department is majorly focussed, and the brilliant crash test scores back the statement.