2021 Sierra 1500
The 2021 Sierra 1500 pickup truck is highly versatile and highly customizable. Packing lots of great features, the 2021 Sierra 1500 makes use of a lot of tech to bring forward good power, drivability and utility. GMC has laid the foundation with a stout high-strength steel frame, four engine options and three transmission choices. With the bar set pretty high, the Sierra 1500 aftermarket has raised it even further with a slew of available performance parts and accessories that can customize and enhance just about every aspect of this pickup truck. Sierra 1500 Performance Take for example the lineup of available engines. 2021 Sierra 1500 owners can equip their truck with one of the following engines:
- 6.2L V8, 420 HP/460 TQ
- 5.3L V8, 355 HP/383 TQ
- 3.0L Duramax turbo diesel, 277 HP/460 TQ
- 2.7L turbo-four, 310 HP/348 TQ
What all these engines have in common is the use of sophisticated engine monitoring and management systems that tweak fuel, air and timing parameters hundreds of times a second. Aftermarket tuners utilize the network of engine and vehicle sensors to provide a custom, more aggressive program that is selectable to the driver's specific needs. These tailored engine solutions result in more horsepower and torque, and also let 2021 Sierra 1500 owners customize other parameters such as shift points, shift firmness, boost pressure and even cooling fan speed!
Sierra 1500 All-Terrain Capability
The AT4 (all-terrain four) model is a Sierra 1500 factory edition that targets a select few off-road specific upgrades versus the other models. For owners that want this performance but didn't choose the factory AT4 option, the good news is that achieving (or even exceeding) AT4 ability is not difficult at all. Heavy duty off-road ready monotube shock absorbers are available aplenty, inexpensive and easy to install. Their specific valve tuning is better suited to undulating and moderating the constant and harsh oscillations of trail driving. Protect the drivetrain with underbody steel skid plates, or for those that want to save weight without compromising integrity, aluminum skid plates. Mounting to factory bolt points, skid plates will help protect the drivetrain vitals from unintended encounters with rocks and other hard trail debris. Top it off with a 2" (or larger) lift kit, and 2021 Sierra 1500 owners will have AT4-like performance (or better) alongside the benefit of using and choosing aftermarket parts that meet their own specific criteria.
Sierra 1500 Uniqueness
Not everything has to be about performance. Part of the fun of owning a 2021 Sierra 1500 is making it yours and having it stand out from the crowd. For owners that want to achieve exactly this, there are just so many ways to go. Subtle changes like switching out chrome trim pieces for blacked out versions help smoothen the body lines and create a distinct look for Sierra owners that prefer to be a little more discreet. On the other end of the spectrum, a brash bull bar, matching side steps and bed rails will catch a lot of attention and really define the rugged look of the 2021 Sierra 1500. Regardless, from small to large exterior changes, it is important to consider the material quality that you are putting on your truck. For example, any metal part should be treated or painted (preferably powder coated, as the baking process makes a very durable paint coat) so as to withstand the elements and prevent rusting. Ideally, non-painted parts have been treated or are made of a naturally corrosion resistant material such as stainless steel or aluminum. Plastics, while impervious to rust, can fade, crack and deteriorate under heavy UV exposure and therefore should have some sort of protection embedded in their molding or coloring process.
