2009 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE LB

The rear-wheel drive (RWD), regular-cab 2009 GMC Sierra LB features a handy 8-foot bed, ideal for carrying those extra-long pieces of cargo. Of course, an extra 21 inches in total vehicle length presents a challenge in city maneuvering and parking, but otherwise, the ’09 Sierra 1500 SLE LB boasts the same standard features and option packages as its standard-bed RWD compatriot.

Powered by a standard 4.8-liter V8 engine and four-speed automatic putting out 298 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque, the ’09 Sierra 1500 SLE LB gets an EPA-estimated 14/19 mpg. When the 315-hp, 5.3-liter V8 (Flex Fuel or regular gas) is opted for, though mileage remains the same, towing capacity, when properly equipped, will jump exponentially, as it also will with the available 367-hp, 6.0-liter V8 with six-speed automatic.

By Eric Tallberg