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2017 GMC Sierra 3500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 is its redesigned optional 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8, which rises to 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque. This is a light update rather than a full redesign.
About the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500
2015-2019 Sierra HD generation, third year; 2017 is a light update year centered on the new Duramax diesel rather than a full redesign.
GMC positions the Sierra 3500 as a heavy-duty pickup for buyers who need real one-ton towing and payload capability but do not want a stripped-out truck unless they choose one. The range starts with jobsite-focused work models, then adds more comfort and technology as you move up, with Denali serving as a true luxury take on a heavy-duty hauler. Compared with its Chevrolet cousin, Sierra leans harder into premium styling and cabin finish.
The 2017 Sierra 3500 ranges from a basic work truck to the comfort-focused Denali. SLE adds an 8-inch touchscreen and rearview camera, SLT brings leather and heated front seats, and Denali tops the range with ventilated front seats, navigation, Bose audio, and a customizable 8-inch driver display.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The optional 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8 was redesigned, increasing output from 397 to 445 horsepower and from 765 to 910 lb-ft of torque. Maximum diesel towing ratings also increased on listed configurations. Gas-engine trucks switched to capless fuel fill.
Styling
Diesel-equipped trucks gained a functional hood scoop that feeds air to the redesigned engine.
Safety
The driver-alert safety package became standard on Denali; lane departure warning specifically changed from optional to standard.
2017 GMC Sierra 3500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.6L | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.6L / V8, CNG, 6.0L | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Diesel, 6.6 Liter / V8, CNG, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.6L | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.0 Liter / V8, Turbo Dsl, 6.6L / V8, CNG, 6.0L |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive / Auto, 6-Spd Allison OD | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive | Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Flexible Fuel / Diesel / Natural Gas | Flexible Fuel / Diesel / Natural Gas | Flexible Fuel / Diesel / Natural Gas | Flexible Fuel / Diesel / Natural Gas |
| Horsepower | 225–445 hp | 225–445 hp | 225–445 hp | 225–445 hp |
| Torque | 333–910 lb-ft | 333–910 lb-ft | 333–910 lb-ft | 333–910 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 13000–20000 lb | 13000–20000 lb | 13000–20000 lb | 13000–15000 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 34.7–40.9 in | 34.7–40.9 in | 34.7–40.9 in | 40.9 in |
| Seats | 3–6 | 5 | 3–6 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 2–4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Side Steps | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500?
The biggest change is the redesigned optional 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8. It produces 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque, up from 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft in 2016.
Was the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 fully redesigned?
No. The 2017 Sierra 3500 remained part of the generation introduced for 2015 and received a light update centered on the redesigned Duramax diesel, not a full redesign.
Did the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 gain more towing capacity?
Yes, on listed diesel configurations. The maximum rating rose to 15,000 pounds for Denali and to 20,000 pounds for the base, SLE, and SLT trims, though the exact rating depends on the truck’s body, drivetrain, and equipment.
How can I recognize a 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 diesel?
A 2017 diesel truck has a functional hood scoop tied to the redesigned Duramax engine. It is the clearest exterior change for this model year.
What safety equipment changed on the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500 Denali?
The Denali’s driver-alert safety package became standard for 2017. Lane departure warning specifically moved from optional to standard equipment.
2017 GMC Sierra 3500 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2017 GMC Sierra 3500.
4.3
2017 GMC Sierra 3500
(166 reviews)
“Best gasoline truck on the market by far. No problems run them 200,000 or more working with the daily pulling 10,000 lbs..”
“This is an awesome truck and has everything you could possibly want in a truck very satisfied with it.”