GMC Sierra Denali: The Luxury Truck That Started It All

GMC trucks have become up-market versions of their Chevrolet counterparts, in particular, models like the “Denali.” The Sierra is now GM’s top-dog, full-size truck, with towing capacities to rival a Cummins Ram 3500. Now entering its fifth model year, the Sierra remains an impressive full size choice, with attractive styling updates to keep it looking sharp. Right now GMC has a number of excellent incentives on the Sierra. Here’s why it’s still at the top of the heap.

Despite sharing a Silverado mechanical platform, there are differences beneath that help the Sierra command its price premium over its brother, not to mention its unique, more handsome sheetmetal. Exclusive to the Sierra are adaptive dampers, carbon fiber cargo box, and split folding tailgate, none of which will be found on Silverados. Its imposing front fascia is arguably more intimidating, and a large, silver-faced grille, in particular on the new 2024 models, are even more good-looking than the pre-2022 mid-cycle refresh.

Non-Denali Pro trim starts at $38,300 msrp for the 2025 ($37,700 for 2024), a regular-cab, standard bed rear-wheel drive model. GMC’s arguably mediocre website makes it difficult to option out a rear-wheel drive Sierra, but they do exist; 4-wheel drive Sierra Pro’s start at $47,095 msrp. Standard equipment includes the high-output version of the G.M. TurboMax motor, with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. LED headlamps, taillamps, and DRL’s are standard equipment. Other standard equipment on all Sierras include push button start, 17 inch wheels, 8-speed auto transmission (10-speed comes with V8’s), 4-way manual seats, bluetooth and infotainment system with color touch screen, rear back up camera, power windows and locks, keyless entry, USB ports, and single zone climate control.

Sierra SLE trim starts at $48,800 msrp, adding a larger center touchscreen (13.4 inch), along with a 12.3 inch digital instrument panel. SLE also adds a trailering package with hitch and guidance, heated steering wheel, rear window defogger, dual zone climate control, 10 way power driver seat, heated front seats, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cargo bed LED lighting, and an automatic locking rear diff.

Sierra Elevation, starting at $50,500 msrp for rear wheel models, adds a monochrome exterior look that has gloss-black mesh inserts in the grille, and 20 inch gloss black painted aluminum rims. One step up, the GMC-faithful SLT, $54,900 msrp, is where a 5.3L V8 (355 hp) becomes standard, optional on lower models. One more step up is the AT4, $66,800 msrp, with its 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel (305 hp / 460 lb-ft torque). AT4 has a 2-inch factory lift, Rancho monotube shocks, a two speed transfer case / automatic locking rear diff, underbody skid plates, and Kalahari accented interior with heated/ventilated leather front seats. The AT4X off-road, $79,400 msrp, adds to the AT4 with Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear locking e-diffs, 12-speaker Bose stereo, and a steel front bumper with winch capability.

The Sierra Denali, $65,400 msrp, is a trim that has evolved into its own model. Making its debut on the GMC Sierra in 2001 two years after the Yukon Denali SUV aped the Cadillac Escalade, Denali now features the 6.2L V8 (420 hp) gas engine with a 10 speed auto, open-pore wood, patterned aluminum trim, and forge perforated leather seats. It has continuous damping adaptive ride control, and an enormous Denali chrome grille. The Denali Ultimate, $84,200 msrp, adds 16 way heated and ventilated power front seats with massage, a 12 speaker Bose stereo, and more luxury than a Mercedes could shake a stick at.

Sierra HD models start at $46,300 msrp for Pro with a standard 6.6L V8 (401 hp) gas engine and 10 speed auto trans. Trailering package and trailering mirrors are standard, as are wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto and LED headlamps and tailamps. HD Sierras also range up through SLE, SLT, AT4, Denali, AT4X, and Denali Ultimate as well, topping out at $92,900 msrp. Sierra HD also has the optional diesel motor with 470 hp and a staggering 975 lb-ft of torque.

Sierra Elevation
Sierra Elevation

Right now GMC is offering a host of amazing incentives on the Sierra. These include impressive APR’s and attractive lease deals, as well as “Cash allowance” offers. Be sure to consult local dealers as offers may vary by region.


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