2009 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 4WD

Though identical to its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sibling in appearance, the standard-bed, regular-cab 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 4WD, as its moniker implies, offers on-demand four-wheel drive (4WD). The ’09 Sierra 1500 SLE 4WD packs all the same standard and optional bells and whistles as the RWD SLE, with the addition of an available Snow Plow Prep Package. The ’09 1500 SLE 4WD also features electronic hi-lo gear selection, a standard mechanical center differential, and auto-locking hubs.

In common with its RWD SLE stablemate, the ’09 Sierra 1500 SLE 4WD packs the standard 295-hp, 305-lb-ft/torque 4.8-liter V8 and four-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain can tow 5,900 pounds (when properly equipped) at 14/18 mpg. Also like its sibling, the ’09 Sierra 1500 SLE 4WD is available with the 315-hp, 338-lb-ft/torque 5.3-liter V8 and four-speed transmission that, with the optional Trailering Equipment Package, tows 8,900 pounds at 13/18 mpg. The 367-hp, 375-lb-ft/torque 6.0-liter V8 and six-speed automatic is a third powerplant option for the ’09 1500 SLE 4WD.

By Eric Tallberg