Luxe WHEELS
2019 GMC SIERRA DENALI The all-new pickup adds a level of luxury to the truck market BY JIM PRUETER
VITAL STATS Base price: $54,700
America has a growing love affair with pickup trucks, the hottest selling vehicle segment on the market. It helps that trucks are now feature-packed, mega-capable and loaded with innovation and impressive high-tech functions that will more than satisfy most truck buyers. The 2019 GMC Sierra Denali has been substantially revised to include new exterior and interior designs; a new active suspension system for a smoother, luxurious ride; two new versions of the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V-8 engines; and an industry-exclusive multifunction tailgate and carbon fiber rear cargo box. My test Denali trim level – which is the top of the line option out of all offered for the GMC Sierra – has been redesigned from the ground up and is both larger and longer, affording a roomier interior. The overall look is big, imposing, and hard to ignore, mostly due to the massive chrome-clad grille and optional 22-inch wheels. Inside, the library-quiet interior is replete with supple heated and cooled Forge leather-appointed seating; open-pore ash wood trim; and advanced, state-of-the art technology and safety features. There’s a panoramic sunroof, a premium
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Uptown April ‘19
Bose surround-sound infotainment system, a 360-degree HD Surround Vision camera, an embedded Wi-Fi hotspot, and an impressive complement of advanced safety features that include automatic emergency braking, a driver alert package, a safety teen driver feature, and a rear seat reminder. Something especially attractive to truck drivers is GMC’s innovative MultiPro tailgate, which has six different functions and positions for easier loading, doubles as a standing workstation, and provides easier access to items in the cargo box. You won’t find this on any other pickup. On the road, the Denali’s new, exclusive Adaptive Ride control suspension renders the ride quality nearly as comfortable as a luxury sedan. Power from the optional 6.2-liter V-8 engine comes on quickly and is linear and predictable, delivering ample amounts of power and a connection between driver and truck that enhances the joy of the driving experience. All this adds up to one of the biggest, imposing and most luxurious pickup trucks available on the market. You’ll certainly get no argument from me.
Price as tested: $67,340 Engine: 6.2-liter V-8 Horsepower: 420 Fuel economy: 17/23 mpg city/ highway Seating: 5 Fab features: Spacious, luxurious cabin Versatile MultiPro tailgate Roomy, quiet and comfortable