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 is approaching the end of its lifecycle, and GMC has a number of excellent incentives to move units amidst a sales slump. You just might be able to get an amazing deal on a brand new Sierra.

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.

Pro trim started at $37,200 msrp for the 2023 model year, up to $37,700 for the entry level 2024 mode, 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 $46,700 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.

SLE trim starts at $51,095, 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.

Elevation, starting at $52,795 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 SLT is where a 5.3L V8 (355 hp) becomes standard, optional on lower models. One more step up is the AT4 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, $79,200 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, $69,900 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, $82,500 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 $45,500 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

Similar to other automakers, General Motors is facing a sales slump, with sales decreasing and inventories increasing. Right now GMC is offering a host of amazing incentives on the Sierra. There is 0% APR or $2,500 loyalty cash on 2024 Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 6.2L V8; the same low 0% APR is also available on 1500 SLT 5.3L V8, or $6,000 purchase allowance when trading an eligible vehicle. Sierra 1500 Short Box Crew Cab 4wd with the Turbomax motor is leasing at $349 a month for 36 months for current GM lesses with $5,419 down. GMC is also offering 5.9% APR for 84 months on Sierra Heavy Duty Denali models, which is almost $7,000 of average finance savings given the loan term.


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