Engineers at the GM Milford Proof Grounds "Black Lake skidpad suggested we run through the GMC Denali Sierra test site hands slalom. We just initiated Sierra 2007 on the same cone course and found it remarkably well, better than the F-150, tundra, and "Titan" for comparison (someone wrong keys to RAM). But then the guys pointed to the shiny black Denali. "Try that," they said.
Yes, GM has absolutely raised the bar with a new GMT900s. And while the new Tundra is fine, upgraded in 2008 to deliver the Titan, F-150 solid home run, as well as several elderly Ram is still very competitive, these new Silverados and Sierras Excel, especially in the body fit, driving dynamics, fuel efficiency and Also the cabin calm. But through the slalom, Denali was Shocker.
What makes the Denali-first pickup model to get 403_horsepower all-aluminum, with adjustable valve-timed 6.2_liter V_8 and six speed automatic transmission-GM ultimate light trucks in addition has its own levels of luxury, elegance, strength and good looks. We love his big bright mesh grille and lower air intake, saucer size foglamps, body-colored bumper and eight spoke wheels. Denali exclusive 20_inch wheels / tires are optional; 22_inchers can be installed by the dealer.
Inside is a rich mix of shade of skin, beautiful ozhnoe wood and bright accents everywhere you look and touch. Denali Blank include Woodgrain and leather steering wheel, unique center console of damped lids more generous view bin, and dual cupholders and marks the windowsill embossed under all four doors. Standard features include StabiliTrak with rollover mitigation, roof-cleaning side curtain airbags, OnStar with automatic Crash Notification, automatic rain-sensing wipers, heated liquid, washing, power-adjustable pedals, remote launch, EZ-lift tailgate, rear parking aid and MP3 stereo-capable in-dash six-disc CD Changer, Bose speakers, XM satellite radio and rear seat audio.
This is not a sport sedan, but it is remarkably Athletic thanks to its rigid boxed frame, new coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, aided by 20_inch tires. 6.2_liter V_8 smooth and muscular, six-speed gearbox slick and transparent (with tap up / down button switch to the column shifter), and we do not know quieter pickup on the planet. Our only wish is that GM will refuse its crude manual steering rod adjustment and invest in the power tilt / telescope governor.
Denali arrived in April as mid_2007 entry. 2008 can be purchased as a rear-or all-wheel-drive Crew Cab in black, white or silver with Ebony or Cocoa / Light Cashmere interior. Rear-wheel drive models start around $ 40,000 and all-wheel-drive Sierra Denali prices starting around $ 45,000.
Base price $39,690
Price as tested $47,790
Layout Front engine, RWD/AWD, 4-door, 5-pass pickup
Engine 6.2L/403-hp/417-lb-ft OHV 16-valve all-alum V-8
Transmission 6L80 6-speed automatic
Wheelbase, in 143.5
Length x width x height, in 230.2 x 80.0 x 73.7
Curb weight, lb 5400
GVWR, lb 7000
Payload capacity, lb 1600
Max towing capacity, lb 8600
Max cargo capacity, cu ft 53.2
0-60 mph, sec 6.5 (TT est)
Quarter mile, sec @ mph 14.5 @ 93.0 (TT est)
EPA fuel econ, city/hwy, mpg 16/20 (est)
CO2 emissions, lb/mile 1.1