Gmc Intellilink

Introducing the Second-Generation GMC Acadia

October 24, 2016 by admin 11 Comments

GMC’s midsize SUV lighter, smaller, & more efficient than the previous model.

Eleven years is an awfully long time to stick with the same model. Typically, customer appeal fades after a few years. Even with product refreshes it usually requires a clean sheet design to reinvigorate consumer interest and the sales boost that goes with it.

The GMC Acadia flies in the face of marketing convention as its best year was 2015 when this midsize crossover sport utility vehicle was in its tenth year. This calendar year (2016) is one of transition as the first-generation model has given way to the second-generation Acadia. The new model went on sale in May.

Lighter Weight, Fresh Design

Big changes accompany the second-generation GMC Acadia. For one, it comes in at least 700 pounds lighter than the previous model. GMC says they accomplished the weight savings in part by using a body structure composed of press-hardened, high-strength steels. It also helps that the base engine is now a four cylinder and the overall length has shrunk by 6.4 inches (3.5 inches between the wheels).

Gone is the previous eight-passenger seating option. The new model offers room for five, six, or seven, including exclusive two-row seating in the Acadia All Terrain, which brings in underfloor bins for added storage. In all other models, the 50-50 split folding third-row seat folds flat, creating a fully loading flat load floor behind the rear seat.

A new model means a fresh look and GMC has worked diligently to ensure that the latest interpretation pays off. Yes, you can still purchase a bling-bling Denali, while the blacked-out All Terrain serves as the antithesis of that look.

Regardless of the trim chosen, you’ll come away with an SUV offering a bold grille, sleek wraparound headlamps, a sporty lower grille opening, and strong shoulders. This model is also marked by squared wheel arches, a high belt line, alloy wheels, and oversized rear combination lamps. Body sculpting, character lines, and a wraparound greenhouse look at the rear are other standout features.

Eight Trims for the Choosing

Most shoppers will choose one of the five standard trims for the 2017 Acadia: SL ($29,995), SLE-1 ($33,375), SLE-2 ($35,995), SLT-1 ($39,275), or SLT-2 ($42,675). Prices include destination; add $2,000 for all-wheel drive, where available. The base model is front-wheel drive only.

Choose the Denali and you’ll pay $45,845 (all-wheel drive is extra) while the All Terrain will set you back by $39,115 or $43,250 for the fully-optioned model. Terrain models come with an advanced all-wheel drive or 4×4 system, enabling customers to switch between various drive modes, including all terrain, sport, and trailer/tow.

Technology You Want

As before, Acadia interiors are clean and relatively drama free. The drama you don’t want isn’t found here, meaning the GMC Intellilink infotainment system is both easy to decipher and user friendly. Voice, touchscreen, knob or switch operated, this model offers standard OnStar with Wi-Fi (a three-month trial subscription is offered) along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These are the types of tech features customers want that go beyond the requisite USB ports and auxiliary audio ports to deliver a complete and entirely usable experience.

Safety is an important component of the customer buying experience. Beyond the suite of eight airbags, traction and stability control, and electronic brake-force distribution, there are certain advanced safety technologies customers want as well.

For the 2017 Acadia, the advanced driver assist technologies appear beginning on the SLT-2 level. These include: following distance indicator, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, and side blind zone alert with lane change alert. At this trim level, you’ll also receive front and rear park assist. As for crash testing, those results were not ready at the time of publication.

Standard equipment includes keyless entry and push-button start, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power accessories, cruise control, a rearview camera, air conditioning, OnStar 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, an auxiliary jack, and a six-speaker audio system.

Upgrades are many and depend largely on the trim level chosen or the package acquired. These include an eight-speaker Bose audio system (SLT), remote vehicle start (SLE-2), a power driver’s seat (SLE-2), a heated power-adjustable steering wheel and column (Denali), driver alert package (SLT-1), and a 120-volt outlet (SLT-1). You’ll also find many exterior and safety upgrades as you move up through the trim levels.

On the Road

Our Acadia SLT-1 test vehicle came with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. There is a big difference in power numbers between the two, a point customers should be aware of when considering their vehicle.

The base engine makes 193 horsepower and 188 pound-feet of torque. The V6 has an output of 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The four-cylinder engine makes this SUV feel light on its feet. In front-wheel drive you’ll sense the overall lightness —for some customers, this combination will suit them fine. On the other hand, if it is full trailering capabilities you prize, the base engine won’t be sufficient as it is limited to 1,000 pounds. Choose the V6 and the trailer towing package enables this SUV to reach its maximum 4,000-pound trailering capacity.

Step on the accelerator and the GMC moves away evenly from a full stop. No, you won’t find rapacious amounts of power, but it gets the job done. This model was developed when fuel prices were still high, thus the smaller standard engine. You’ll benefit from a fuel economy edge too, as the standard model makes 21/26 mpg city/highway while the V6 delivers 18/25 mpg city/highway.

One surprise for me was the transmission choice. Given that eight-speed transmissions are more commonplace in today’s vehicles, including with GM products, I was surprised to find that a six-speed automatic is still used. The two extra cogs would have provided slightly better fuel economy and improved off-the-line acceleration. Despite limited to six gears, this proven transmission works seamlessly in the background.

What then should be the measuring criteria when choosing your Acadia engine? It boils down to this: load capacity. Choose the smaller engine if you’re purchasing this SUV and you have a young family — you, your spouse, and a pair of small children. Families with teenagers, people who regularly carry cargo and especially anyone disposed to towing will require the V6.

In any case, the 2017 Acadia offers a comfortable ride with minimal body roll when cornering. For optimum comfort, performance and ride, a Denali model is your best choice. Go with one of the All Terrain packages if off-road prowess is important to you.

Parting Thoughts

The 2017 Acadia replaces a very capable model — that alone was a tall order for vehicle developers. Its smaller footprint and improved efficiency work to deliver a midsize SUV with improved handling.

For shoppers preferring something slightly smaller, the GMC Terrain should be considered. For those wanting more room and the V8 power and trailering capabilities that come with it, the Yukon or Yukon XL should be considered.

Lastly, if you’re shopping at a combined Buick-GMC showroom, the Buick Enclave is available. It is based on the Acadia’s older design with the new model set to reach the market for the 2018 model year. In all, you’ll find no lack of SUV’s available — four GMCs and three Buicks — with the Acadia the newest of the lot.

Recent Review — Tiny Cargo Transporter: 2016 Nissan NV200

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali Redux

August 12, 2016 by admin 5 Comments

GMC’s largest and most luxurious SUV.

The SUV market continues to expand as consumers make the shift away from cars. The GMC Yukon and the larger Yukon XL are part of that trend and include customers moving up from a minivan or a crossover utility vehicle.

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali

A 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali was a recent weekly driver, but it wasn’t the first time I’ve been behind-the-wheel time of this traditional, body-on-frame SUV. Indeed, in my past reviews and thoughts about the model I have affectionately called it “Cadillac Escalade Light,” offering homage to GM’s most luxurious SUV.

That doesn’t mean the big GMC is a lightweight — far from it. It’s as close to a Cadillac model you can get without invading the Escalade’s space. But that still means you get perforated leather seats, heated and cooled front bucket seats, heated second-row outboard seats, a heated steering wheel, a Bose audio system, wireless phone charging, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot among other features.

Year-Over-Year Updates

The current-generation Yukon XL was released in 2015, thus its most significant changes took place last year. Even so, GMC wasn’t about to settle on its laurels as there are a few new or updated features included this year.

For one, GMC increased the Intellilink’s processing speed and introduced Apple CarPlay. An enhanced “Driver Alert Package” includes lane keep assist and automatic high/low beam headlamps. Two new exterior colors, a pair of 22-inch wheel choices, and a capless fuel filler feature round out the changes introduced in 2016.

What makes a GMC worthy of the Denali label? Answer: Denali is the top trim level for the brand and is found in every model except for GMC’s full-size Savana van line.

Lay on Some Chrome-Like Touches

One distinguishing feature for all Denalis is the generous amounts of chrome-like trim surrounding the grille, bumpers, headlights, crossing the belt line, on the lower profile trim, enveloping the windows, and on to the rear fascia. Not to be left out are the wheels, typically clad in thick chrome alloy.

The enhanced look isn’t for everyone, but it does provide visual appeal, allowing adorned GMC models get noticed. And if you’re spending around $80,000 for one, you don’t want it to be confused with lesser models. Sure, the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban have their own appeal, but then they’re not GMC.

The Yukon XL is a massive vehicle and represents the extended wheelbase version of the Yukon. This model is marked by a bold honeycomb grille, flared headlamp assemblies, and distinct pockets housing the LED fog lamps.

The long slab sides are marked by chrome, character lines, body sculpting, trim, and an expansive greenhouse. Indeed, the rear side windows are especially long and contribute to this SUV’s massive persona. At the rear is an expansive lift gate, vertical combination lamps, and a spoiler.

Spacious and Upscale Cabin

Inside, the Denali provides standard seating for seven and available space for eight. The standard seating arrangement has two bucket seats up front, a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row, and a third-row split folding bench seat.

Massive is the cabin and every seating position supplies generous amounts of head space and legroom. The third row has the tightest space, but even that area has sufficient shoulder and hip room.

Up front is a pair of comfortable bucket seats with all driver and cabin controls where you expect to find them. Leather is generously found across the dashboard, surrounding the center console, on the door inlays, and covering the seats. Also present are wood grain accents and burnished aluminum trim; contrast stitching on the console as well as on the doors — collectively, these touches elevate this model.

Standard features are many and include three-zone climate control, a power tilt and telescopic steering column, power-adjustable pedals, as well as heated and ventilated front seats. The second row seats also have a heating option and include a power-release fold and tumble feature for ease of access to the third row.

Additional features standard with the Yukon XL includes keyless entry and push button start, a wireless charging port for mobile phones, and a 110-volt power outlet. On the entertainment side, this model has a 10-speaker, Bose Centerpoint audio system; HD radio; a GMC Intellilink telematics system with an 8-inch color display; and navigation. You’ll also find Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, OnStar, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.

Package upgrades allow customers to personalize their Denali as they see fit.

You have your choice of 22-inch wheels ($1,495), an Open Road package ($2,860) — composed of a power sunroof and a rear-seat entertainment system featuring screens for both the second- and third-row passengers — and heated outboard second-row seats ($395). With the bench seat in place, the captain’s chairs go away. Carefully consider whether you need an eighth seating position at such a loss of very comfortable individual seats.

Safety and Road Manners

On the safety front, the Yukon XL Denali comes with a suite of airbags, stability and traction control, front and rear park assist, rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, side blind zone alert with lane change alert, a rearview camera, and hill start assist. Also available is adaptive cruise control with front automatic braking ($995) and a head-up display ($425).

Take to the road and the big V8 zooms to highway speeds with authority. The 6.2-liter engine works in tandem with an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling this vehicle to reach 60 mph from a dead stop in about six seconds.

This model has a firm ride and benefits from Magnetic Ride Control, a real-time damping system. An independent suspension is up front and to the rear is a five-line, solid axle suspension. The electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion arrangement provides effortless handling; the four-wheel disc brakes with vented front and rear rotors bring this three-ton conveyance to a certain stop.

Parting Thoughts

The Yukon XL as well as the Yukon appeal to a certain type of buyer. Both models provide a solid and dependable vehicle ideal for carrying large payloads and for towing. Indeed, if you have 8,000 pounds of camper, boat, or recreational vehicle to pull, then the big GMC can handle that.

Buyers who don’t need such a huge footprint as the Yukon models might consider the GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali instead. The all-new-for-2017 Acadia now offers a standard four-cylinder engine in addition to a 310-horsepower V6. It offers room for up to seven and comes with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive.

Other models in this segment include the Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Expedition, and the Nissan Armada. Only the Expedition offers an extended wheelbase version similar to the Yukon XL.

Sporty Sedan: 2014 Buick Regal GS

March 11, 2014 by admin 3 Comments

A North American sedan with European roots.

2014 Buick Regal GS. — Updated fascia gives the Buick Regal a look befitting its name.

In 2013, GM sold more than 9.7 million vehicles worldwide for one of its best years ever. Its Buick brand contributed over 1 million sales, nearly matching Opel, and behind Chevrolet.

China is the biggest market for Buick. In the United States, consumers who were once turned off by an assortment of aged sedans and nondescript utility vehicles from the tri-shield brand have now come around.

Serving Prosperous Shoppers

Much credit for new consumer interest must be given to executives who understood that keeping and improving Buick and allowing higher volume Pontiac to die was the right choice. Today, most Buick and GMC outlets are tied together, giving car shoppers a wide range of vehicles.

Buick along with Cadillac gives GM a 1-2 punch when reaching out to luxury and premium vehicle shoppers. Combined, the two brands captured more than 388,000 US sales in 2013, outpacing all other luxury brands. Certainly, a case could be made that Buick isn’t a luxury brand, but many of its offerings correspond to vehicles sold by Audi, Acura, Infiniti, and Lexus. Thus, Cadillac serves the higher end of the market and Buick the lower end.

2014 Buick Regal AWD GS

One of the five models currently composing the Buick line is the Regal sedan. Introduced in 2011, the Regal is Buick’s version of the Insignia, an Opel model sold in Europe. Regal is a well-known Buick name, but the current iteration is not like any of the more recent Regals. Instead, it is a worthy reminder of earlier Regals including the Grand National particularly when the Regal GS is considered.

And it was a 2014 Buick Regal GS in Crystal Red Tintcoat that was a recent press fleet loaner, a five-passenger sedan. Front-wheel drive is standard as tested, the GS was outfitted with optional all-wheel drive and powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The powertrain combination and all-wheel drive give the Regal GS performance that rivals the Grand National and handling better than any Buick in my memory. You dont get paddle shifters with the GS, but you do have use of a manual gate though with no real shifting advantage. It would be great to have a manual gearbox available with the AWD, but it isnt available for now.

The turbocharged four-cylinder is also used in the Cadillac ATS and makes 259 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque. The turbo doesn’t kick in immediately, but when it does it takes this sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds.

On-Demand All-Wheel Drive

The Buick Regal GS is equipped with a Haldex all-wheel drive system, what sends as much as 95 percent of the engine power to the rear wheels when needed. Switching between standard, Sport and GS driving modes tweaks steering and the rear differential for improved handling. This model also has four-piston Brembo brakes up front as well as stiffer springs and adjustable shocks. The handling is quite good with very little torque steer present.

The 2014 edition also marks a mid cycle refresh for the middle of the three Buick sedans. Its good looks have been enhanced with wing-shaped LED lighting, the grille stretched out, and sportier high intensity headlamps added. Wing-shaped LED tail lights are the only change to the rear which continues with the lip-shaped spoiler and dual exhaust ports. This model sits on 19-inch alloy wheels and is outfitted with color-keyed, heated side mirrors.

Buick Regal GS: Snappy Drive and Handling

View manufacturer details and pricing

Refreshed Interior

Buick equips the Regal with a remote vehicle start system and keyless entry. Push button start and a security system are standard.

For 2014, the Regal GS receives an updated GMC Intellink infotainment screen, what now supports Stitcher SmartRadio and Pandora Internet radio. The front seats are plush and bolstered, and have a three-setting heating element. The top setting is quite warm, a good place to start on a frigid morning, but I found it uncomfortable after a while. The heating element on the tilt and telescoping steering wheel warms up fast the usual cruise and secondary controls are present there as well.

I can’t say that the Regals interior has the wow factor you’d expect in this class. The design is stylish and modern, but the materials are average including simulated wood and bright work trim throughout the cabin. Soft touch materials across the dash are pleasant enough, but as tested this vehicle has a $44,275 sticker price. The 9-speaker Bose audio system befits the Regal or what rightly helps this model live up to its name.

The rear seats are comfortable, but legroom is tighter than other vehicles in its class. Seat placement is for three, but you’ll find better room in the larger LaCrosse and comparable space in the smaller Verano. Trunk room is about average for its class as the spare tire is not included. Instead, you get one of those tire sealant and inflation kits that will have you calling roadside assistance instead.

Tech Safety Packages

Tech features push up the price of any car and the Regal GS price reflects that. Ive grown to like the adaptive cruise control with GMs products and the ability to choose from three gap levels between cars. Automatic collision braking is also part of the package; both safety features bring the sedan to a full stop if you do not. Other safety features that drove up the price included lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, side blind zone alert, and lane change alert. The two safety packages added $2,500 to the base sticker price; another $1,000 was added with the power sunroof and $495 for the special paint finish.

The three Buick sedans are tightly positioned offering buyers a choice of small, medium and large models. The Regal may have the sleekest design of all three thanks to its Opel origins. Word has it that in two years when the next generation Regal debuts, Buick will have a lot more input on its design. Better quality cabin materials, more rear legroom, and upgraded powertrain choices would help this already attractive sedan move to the top of its segment.

2014 Buick Regal AWD GS

Sticker price from $39,270
Price as tested: $44,275
Seats 5 occupants
2.0-liter 16-valve turbocharged four-cylinder engine
259 horsepower @ 5,300 rpm
295 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,000 rpm
3.39 inches bore by 3.39 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 9.5-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 107.8 inches
Length: 190.2 inches
Width: 73.1 inches
Height: 58.4 inches
Passenger volume: 96.8 cubic feet
Storage volume: 14.2 cubic feet
Towing capacity: Not recommended
EPA: 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
Premium grade gasoline recommended
Fuel tank: 18 gallons
Curb weight: From 3,989 pounds
Vehicle assembly: Oshawa, Ontario Canada

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Beastly Elegance: 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali

March 4, 2014 by admin 8 Comments

Driven: 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 4WD Denali

2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. — The imposing, yet elegant GMC Sierra 1500 Denali.

If there is one word that explains why GM kept GMC and ditched Pontiac, that word would be Denali. Denali (or Mount McKinley) is the highest mountain peak in North America. It also represents the pinnacle GMC trim level, for the most luxury found in any GM vehicle line this side of Cadillac.

While the Denali line and its high profit margins rendered low-profit Pontiac pointless, it also forced competing brands to respond with high-end crew cab pickup trucks of their own. Namely, we now have the Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, Ford’s F-150 King Ranch, and the Toyota Tundra 1794 edition. Even the similar Chevrolet Silverado now has the High Country — a high-lux, country-themed appeasement for long envious Chevy dealers. It isn’t a Denali, but it comes in close.

The take rate on high-end pickup trucks is small, but when the purchase is done the profits range from $10,000 to $15,000 per vehicle, well above the average $7,000 profit for large pickup trucks. Denali is available in Sierra regular- and heavy-duty pickup trucks as well as across GMC’s utility vehicle line: Terrain, Acadia, Yukon, and Yukon XL. When the smaller Canyon pickup truck returns this year, likely a Denali edition will eventually follow.

2014 GMC Sierra Denali Crew Cab — Denali: Four full-size doors accented by chrome trim.

2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali

A 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 4WD Denali was dropped off in my driveway one late February afternoon, finished in Onyx Black and generously clad in the chrome bling that defines the Denali. Standard Sierra crew cab models are priced from $49,410 for the short bed and $49,710 for the standard bed.

The Denali trim pushes the Sierra’s base price to $52,560. Choose the largest available V-8 engine, a power sunroof, a rear seat entertainment package, a tonneau cover, plus the dealer-installed four-inch chromed tubular round assist steps, and your fully-optioned 44 bling machine will retail for above $60,000. The good news here is that you have much room to negotiate your final price, knocking $5,000 or more off of it without much effort and perhaps as much as $10,000 if you insist on a price closer to what the dealer paid for the truck.

For 2014, GM brought out the latest generation of its full-size pickup trucks. The changes were evolutionary, not revolutionary with the Sierra’s three engines updated to produce improved performance and trailering capabilities while yielding slightly better fuel economy.

Updated Engine Line

The trio of EcoTec3 engines have been outfitted with direct fuel injection, cylinder deactivation, and variable valve timing technologies, enabling all three to keep pace with competing models. A 4.8-liter V-8 was dropped for 2014; a 4.3-liter V-6 is standard on base models with 5.3- and 6.2-liter V-8 engines available. All pickup truck engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.

For the Denali line, your choice of engines is the standard small-block V-8 or the beefier 6.2-liter V-8. As tested, the supplied Denali was powered by the smaller engine, making 355 horsepower, up from 315-hp for the previous generation. Torque has also benefited, rising from 335 foot-pounds to 383 pound-feet. The new or updated technologies along with aerodynamic improvements have yielded the power increase while also providing a slight uptick in fuel economy.

The small-block V-8 worked as expected, delivering excellent response through a variety of driving conditions. With no more than four people riding in it at one time including the driver and nothing to tow, I cannot say whether the larger V-8 would be highly desirable, except for an ever so slight edge in trailering capacity: 11,800 pounds versus 11,200 pounds. Its 420-hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque ratings are not easily dismissed, however.

High-End Cabin

Beyond the exterior bling, the area where the Denali really shines (pun intended) is right inside the cabin. GMC calls it professional grade luxury but you may just as likely grasp how its designers took a luxury sedans sophistication and applied it to a crew cab.

Let’s start with the seats: you get perforated nuance leather-appointed seating with French-stitching, what provides a rich look and a comfortable ride. For the driver and the front passenger, the bucket seats are extra wide, heated, and cooled, offering 12-way power adjustment. Combine that with the tilt and telescopic steering wheel and there is a driving position for everyone. Add in the heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and your comfort quotient climbs another notch. The rear passengers are supplied with a plush bench seat fold it down in sections or together to store goods on top or make use of the space underneath the seats to do the same.

The Denali’s cabin is quiet with triple door seals blocking outside noise. GMC uses real aluminum trim through the cabin and provides a soft-touch instrument panel. The center stack is uncluttered, marked by a touchscreen color display with traditional switches and knobs underneath.

GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Elevates the Segment

View manufacturer details and pricing
The GMC Intellilink system is one of the better ones in the industry fairly easy to use and with a clean design. Shift into backup gear and the standard rearview camera with guidelines and warning beeps helps the driver maneuver the big pickup truck into the tightest spaces. New for 2014 is a seven-speaker Bose audio system with a subwoofer. It provides a sound befitting the Denali class.

Besides its standard 5-foot, 8-inch bed (a 6-foot, 6-inch bed is optional), in-cabin storage is excellent with the Denali. You get in-door storage pockets with bottle holders, cup holders, an oversized glove box with a second storage compartment located above that, seatback pockets, and a pair of oversized front center console storage compartments one open, the other closed. That enclosed second compartment is large enough to hold hanging folders. What I would like to see is a refrigeration option maybe a removable refrigerator compartment for campers and picnickers alike.

Ride and Safety

The latest Denali benefits from several other big pickup truck improvements that has spread across the GMC and Chevrolet lines. Steering, suspension, and brakes have been revised for improved ride and handling. Luxury car features such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning are standard. You also get the same safety alert seat found in Cadillac models, what vibrates the driver’s seat to alert you to potential hazards. This last feature is unnerving at first, but I found myself getting used to it the longer I drove. You may soon find yourself understanding what each vibration means: a left or a right vibration signifies a lane shift in the direction of the vibration, while a full-on vibration denotes forward collision alert. I’m guessing GMs engineers dismissed the idea of a full seat vibration from the headrest to the thigh what might be mistaken for electrocution.

Besides its safety features, there isn’t a moment when I felt unsafe in the Denali. I credit its mass with giving me that confidence plus it intimidating features the massive chrome grille flanked by projector beam headlamps and signature LED daytime running lights says, I’m elegant. It also says, don’t mess with me. People see this blinged-out big black truck coming and move out the way. You don’t need to be a jerk about it, but you should understand that proportion plus an abundance of chrome means you’re driving the cream of the pickup truck set.

To keep your Denali serviced right, GMC provides two years of scheduled service and maintenance to go with its 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance and courtesy transportation is also included for five years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

2014 GMC Sierra 1500

Crew Cab 4WD Denali

Sticker price from $51,465
Price as tested: $57,000 (est.)
Seats 5 occupants
5.3-liter 16-valve V-8 engine
355 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
383 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,100 rpm
3.78 inches bore by 3.62 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 11.0-to-1
6-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 143.5 inches
Length: 229.5 inches
Width: 80 inches
Height: 74 inches
Passenger volume: N/A
Storage volume: 53.4 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 11,200 pounds
EPA: 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 26 gallons
Curb weight: From 5,218 pounds
Vehicle assembly: Silao, Mexico

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