Used 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 for Sale near Alabama
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 277 hp 3L I6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- Gray (Satin Steel Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- Dark Walnut/Slate
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 90,730
- Stock #:
- BA0220A
- VIN:
- 3GTU9DET3MG401674

-$1,425

Sponsored by Long Lewis Chevrolet Bessemer
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
SLT Crew Cab 4WD
90,730 mi
$34,575
$33,150
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 420 hp 6.2L V8
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 92,632
- Stock #:
- 393293
- VIN:
- 1GTU9FELXMZ393293

-$1,000
Sponsored Listing
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
92,632 mi
$36,594
$35,594
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 277 hp 3L I6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- Jet Black W/Kalahari Accents
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 77,922
- Stock #:
- G26327A
- VIN:
- 3GTU9EET7MG460278

Sponsored Listing
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
AT4 Crew Cab 4WD
77,922 mi
$41,006
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 310 hp 2.7L I4
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 71,028
- Stock #:
- VP170951
- VIN:
- 1GTP9CEKXMZ170951

-$1,767
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Elevation Crew Cab 4WD
71,028 mi
$32,737
$31,769
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 19 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Brown (Tan)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 114,060
- Stock #:
- LG269785
- VIN:
- 3GTU9DED9LG269786

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
SLT Crew Cab 4WD
114,060 mi
$27,088
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 420 hp 6.2L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 168,472
- Stock #:
- 1787
- VIN:
- 3GTP9EEL3LG110299

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
AT4 Crew Cab 4WD
168,472 mi
$28,294
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Brown
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 56,695
- Stock #:
- 403515
- VIN:
- 1GTU9DED3MZ403515

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
SLT Crew Cab 4WD
56,695 mi
$37,141
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 420 hp 6.2L V8
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 92,632
- Stock #:
- 393293
- VIN:
- 1GTU9FELXMZ393293

-$1,000
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
92,632 mi
$36,594
$35,594
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Sky
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 99,924
- Stock #:
- M6772A
- VIN:
- 1GTU9CED5MZ242174

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Elevation Crew Cab 4WD
99,924 mi
$30,586
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 110,739
- Stock #:
- 70143A
- VIN:
- 3GTUUCED1NG610544

2022 GMC Sierra 1500
Elevation Crew Cab 4WD
110,739 mi
$33,299
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Mileage:
- 34,801
- Stock #:
- 599329
- VIN:
- 1GTUUCED6NZ599329

2022 GMC Sierra 1500
AT4 Crew Cab 4WD
34,801 mi
$49,874
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 277 hp 3L I6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- White Frost Tricoat
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 127,027
- Stock #:
- M116398TM
- VIN:
- 3GTU9FET5MG335253

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
127,027 mi
$34,421
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 420 hp 6.2L V8
- Exterior color:
- Onyx Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 92,889
- Stock #:
- A25513
- VIN:
- 3GTU9FEL4LG310875

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
92,889 mi
$34,404
CarGurus Analysis:
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
With 6,578 currently listed for sale and an average price of $35,478.00, 31.3% of 2021 GMC Sierras for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 4.9 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 5.67 / 10.
80.4% of 2021 Sierra 1500 models on CarGurus are accident free.
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- 4X2
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic Overdrive
- Mileage:
- 89,403
- Stock #:
- LG107891
- VIN:
- 3GTP8DEDXLG107891

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
SLT Crew Cab RWD
89,403 mi
$30,377
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 420 hp 6.2L V8
- Exterior color:
- White Frost Tricoat
- Combined gas mileage:
- 16 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Atmosphere/Brownstone
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 37,149
- Stock #:
- 26DC0588B
- VIN:
- 3GTUUGEL1NG591511

2022 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
37,149 mi
$47,408
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Onyx Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 42,315
- Stock #:
- 234770
- VIN:
- 3GTU9AEF6MG234770

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Crew Cab 4WD
42,315 mi
$34,233
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 18 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 47,780
- Stock #:
- 5754&5666
- VIN:
- 3GTU9FED8MG328323

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
47,780 mi
$41,600
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 277 hp 3L I6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- Gray (Satin Steel Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- Jet Black With Kalahari Accents
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 108,717
- Stock #:
- 246893A
- VIN:
- 1GTU9EETXMZ246983

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
AT4 Crew Cab 4WD
108,717 mi
$33,630
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 420 hp 6.2L V8
- Exterior color:
- Gray (Dark Sky Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 85,261
- Stock #:
- 64336B
- VIN:
- 1GTU9FEL2LZ219992

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
Denali Crew Cab 4WD
85,261 mi
$39,786
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 277 hp 3L I6 Diesel
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 24 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Diesel
- Interior color:
- TWO/TONE
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 90,824
- Stock #:
- 2026-498
- VIN:
- 3GTU9EET6MG365839

2021 GMC Sierra 1500
AT4 Crew Cab 4WD
90,824 mi
$34,192
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Onyx Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 17 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 73,978
- Stock #:
- MX5181
- VIN:
- 1GTUUCED4NZ526086

2022 GMC Sierra 1500
Elevation Crew Cab 4WD
73,978 mi
$35,150
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- 4X2
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 20 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Jet Black
- Transmission:
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Mileage:
- 132,163
- Stock #:
- G263352T
- VIN:
- 3GTP8DED3LG263352

2020 GMC Sierra 1500
SLT Crew Cab RWD
132,163 mi
$26,543
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- GMC
- Model:
- Sierra 1500
- Body type:
- Pickup Truck
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Four-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 355 hp 5.3L V8
- Exterior color:
- Summit White
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 73,308
- Stock #:
- B26SV104A
- VIN:
- 3GTU9BED6MG444886

Sponsored Listing
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
SLE Crew Cab 4WD
73,308 mi
$32,615
CarGurus Analysis: 2021 GMC Sierra 1500
overall

Summary
With 6,578 currently listed for sale and an average price of $35,478.00, 31.3% of 2021 GMC Sierras for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 4.9 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 5.67 / 10.
80.4% of 2021 Sierra 1500 models on CarGurus are accident free.
Why it stands out
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 stands out as a full-size light-duty pickup that mixes familiar capability with a few distinctive GMC touches. It shares its basic hardware with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, but it wears different styling and offers unique features such as an optional carbon-fiber composite cargo bed. It also comes in multiple body styles and with multiple powertrain options, which helps it appeal to buyers who want flexibility in how they configure their truck.
What makes the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 especially interesting is that its strongest setup may not be the one most buyers expect. Unless you can’t live without the deeply satisfying rumble of a V8 engine, it is at its best when equipped with the affordable Duramax turbodiesel inline-six. The truck also earns credit for easy-to-use technology, though it is not without drawbacks: the technology is described as outdated, the interior materials feel cheap, and the base engine is underwhelming. Even so, it remains a fundamentally appealing truck, with the main caveat being that it needs attention to the details.
Other model years to consider
- Average price: $51,059.00
- Good/great deal percentage: 34.2%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 9,646
- Average price: $42,694.00
- Good/great deal percentage: 32.8%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 9,204
- Average price: $49,007.00
- Good/great deal percentage: 34.7%
- User rating: 4.64 / 5
- Total listings: 9,656
This analysis is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 24, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
5.0 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Matthew B
Reviewed a 2021 GMC AT4 Crew Cab 4WD on Jan 7, 2025
Best truck I have driven! Highway speeds are great and feels like I’m driving a Cadillac.
Brandon S
Reviewed a 2021 GMC SLT Crew Cab 4WD on Apr 1, 2026
Love the SLT and all the features it has definitely a great value and good driving truck with good suspension and quality
Donald P
Reviewed a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 on Oct 8, 2023
I love everything about this truck, so much I bought one. I got one with the 3liter duramax. Hopefully it’ll be the last truck I’ll ever own.
Randy R
Reviewed a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 on Jun 6, 2023
The features on the 2021 GMC Sierra was everything and more then what I expected. The value of the truck was decent considering the times we live in now. Would highly recommend GMC so far
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Elevation Crew Cab RWD | $45,700 |
| SLE Crew Cab 4WD | $47,100 |
| Elevation Double Cab 4WD | $46,400 |
| SLT Crew Cab RWD | $47,500 |
| Elevation Crew Cab 4WD | $49,000 |
| Denali Crew Cab 4WD | $59,300 |
| SLT Crew Cab 4WD | $50,800 |
| AT4 Crew Cab 4WD | $54,700 |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 prices has changed over time.
See more price trends2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Pricing Analysis
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Highest Prices in Philadelphia: The city commands an average price of $34,987, likely due to higher demand and lower inventory.
- Lowest Prices in Houston: With an average price of $32,276, Houston offers the best value, suggesting a more competitive market or higher inventory levels.
- Inventory Variation: Cities like Chicago (625 listings) and Atlanta (672 listings) have substantial inventory, which correlates with stable pricing around the national average.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | 496 | $34,987 |
| Atlanta, GA | 672 | $34,495 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 344 | $34,354 |
| New York, NY | 481 | $34,137 |
| Chicago, IL | 625 | $34,087 |
| Dallas, TX | 230 | $34,116 |
| Washington, DC | 493 | $33,242 |
| Miami, FL | 385 | $32,479 |
| Houston, TX | 610 | $32,276 |
| Boston, MA | 464 | $34,935 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- Significant New-Car Premium: The 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 is priced at $59,169, which is approximately 54.5% above its MSRP, indicating strong demand for the latest model.
- Depreciation Trends: The 2018 model shows a notable depreciation of ~8.0%, while older models like the 2015 Sierra have depreciated by ~27.1%, reflecting a steep decline in value as vehicles age.
- Best Value Years: The 2022 model is priced at $42,664, which is ~19.0% below its MSRP, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking value without sacrificing modern features.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Original MSRP | Avg Price | Price vs MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $38,300 | $59,169 | +54.5% |
| 2025 | $38,300 | $51,564 | +34.5% |
| 2024 | $37,700 | $49,316 | +30.8% |
| 2023 | $37,100 | $45,695 | +23.2% |
| 2022 | $35,400 | $42,664 | +20.5% |
| 2020 | $29,600 | $33,492 | +13.0% |
| 2019 | $29,600 | $31,443 | +6.2% |
| 2018 | $29,000 | $26,666 | -8.0% |
| 2017 | $28,405 | $23,167 | -18.4% |
| 2016 | $27,815 | $20,692 | -25.5% |
| 2015 | $26,670 | $19,441 | -27.1% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 27, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
How much does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 cost?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Average Price | $35,389 |
| Year-Round Low | $35,401.43 |
| Year-Round High | $38,863.02 |
| Average Price a Year Ago | $38,862 |
| Change vs. Last Year | −8.94% |
Prices have softened 8.94% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.
There are 6,680 listings available, which suggests you have a healthy amount of inventory to compare.
If you find a listing below $35,401.43, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
Is the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 a good car?
Yes — the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 earns a 4.9/5 user rating and a 5.67/10 expert rating. The standout strength is Performance at 9/10.
Owners consistently praise its luxurious features, strong engine performance, advanced technology, and comfortable interior. The truck also gets credit for offering great value for money, with many reviewers feeling it stands out in its class.
The trade-offs are familiar: the technology can feel outdated, the interior materials feel cheap, and the base engine is underwhelming. Even so, the Sierra’s mix of multiple body styles, multiple powertrain options, and easy-to-use technology makes it appealing if you want a full-size pickup that can be configured for work, commuting, or a more upscale setup.
Only 28.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals, so the market rewards patience and comparison shopping.
Is the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 reliable?
Owners rate it 4.9/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.
The owner feedback points to a truck that feels dependable, with reviewers highlighting strong performance, comfort, and value over time. The diesel setup also comes across as a smart long-term choice because it is described as an affordable engine option that delivers strong torque and efficient highway use.
The test-drive notes reinforce that impression by describing the 10-speed automatic as flawlessly adept at choosing gears and keeping the engine in its torque band. The Duramax diesel is also presented as a bargain relative to competing diesel trucks.
For used buyers, the main long-term ownership risk is that the Sierra can still nickel-and-dime you with options and subscriptions, so condition and equipment matter as much as mileage.
What should I look for when buying a used 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?
Accident-free inventory is solid at 80.6% — always verify the vehicle history report.
You should still run a history report on any truck you’re considering, even if the listing looks clean. Prioritize a pre-purchase inspection that checks the cabin, electronics, and any added equipment, since the Sierra’s appeal depends heavily on how it was optioned. Focus on overall condition and feature content, because the difference between a basic truck and a well-equipped one is significant here.
Key things to evaluate:
- Trim level: The Denali trim level is the upscale choice, while the AT4 adds off-road-ready hardware and distinctive styling. The base truck can feel sparse, so feature gaps matter a lot if you want a more premium experience.
- Powertrain: The Duramax 3.0-liter turbodiesel six-cylinder is the standout choice, with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The 10-speed automatic and available 4WD system help it feel strong and flexible, while the base engine is described as underwhelming.
- Safety package: Forward collision warning, front pedestrian braking, and automatic emergency braking are available, while blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning come on Denali and are optional on other trims. Lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and a Safety Alert Seat are also available depending on trim.
- Infotainment: You can get a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. The system also includes SiriusXM satellite radio, a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, and a navigation system, with the optional Technology Package adding a 15-inch head-up display and an 8-inch driver information display.
- Fuel efficiency: The Duramax diesel is rated at 24 mpg in combined driving, and the test truck averaged 21.1 mpg in mixed conditions.
Which 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 trim should I buy?
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is offered in 3 trim levels: Elevation, AT4, Denali.
Here's the short version:
- Elevation: This is the best-value trim to consider if you want to keep costs in check while still getting a custom appearance and access to a wide range of options. It can stay near $43,000 if you keep it simple, but it also leaves room to climb much higher with extras.
- AT4: This is the right pick if you want the most rugged personality in the lineup. It adds a 2-inch suspension lift, off-road suspension, skid plates, a locking rear differential, and distinctive off-road styling, making it the most capability-focused choice.
- Denali: This is the luxury-oriented trim, with the most upscale presentation and the strongest premium appeal. It suits you best if you want the Sierra’s most boast-worthy version and are willing to pay for it.
Safety features such as blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are standard on Denali and optional on other trims.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?
This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop carefully and still find opportunities.
- Deal availability: 28.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 6,680 listings available.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 8.94% compared with last year.
- Clean inventory: 80.6% of listings are accident-free.
If you find a listing below $35,401.43, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
What is the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500's resale value?
The current average of $35,389 sits slightly below last year's $38,862.
That price movement suggests the Sierra has already absorbed some depreciation, which can help future sellers if they buy at the right point. A softer market today may also make it easier for you to find a cleaner truck at a more realistic price, which can support resale later if you avoid overpaying now.
Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.9/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.
Is the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 safe?
It earns four-star ratings in frontal crash and rollover, and five-star ratings in all other NHTSA tests.
It earns a 4/10 safety score from our experts.
The Sierra’s safety equipment is uneven for a premium-branded truck. Forward collision warning, front pedestrian braking, and automatic emergency braking are available, while blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are standard on Denali and optional on other trims. Lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and a Safety Alert Seat are also available depending on trim, and adaptive cruise control is offered on SLT, AT4, and Denali.
The weak spots are important to note: IIHS gives the truck a Marginal result for the front passenger in the small-overlap frontal test, a Poor headlight rating, and Marginal LATCH accessibility. If safety is a top priority, you should pay close attention to how the truck is equipped and not assume the premium badge means premium protection.
Should I buy a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 or consider a different year?
If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:
Choose the 2021 if:
- 28.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Accident-free inventory is solid at 80.6% — always verify the vehicle history report.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 8.94% compared with last year.
- Owners rate it 4.9/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
- This year balances strong performance, useful tech, and multiple powertrain choices.
Consider the 2020 if:
- At $33,608, the 2020 costs less than the current year's $35,389 average.
- It blends SUV-like comfort with practical truck utility.
Consider the 2022 if:
- At $42,558, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $35,389 average.
- It brings a major redesign with more luxury, better tech, and new trims.
The bottom line: If you want the best balance of price, satisfaction, and available inventory, the 2021 is the sensible target. If you’re shopping on a tighter budget, the 2020 gives you a lower entry point, while the 2022 makes sense only if you want the newer design and are willing to pay more for it.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 28, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
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