GMC Sierra Denali is truly special

When thinking of a luxury vehicle, a pickup truck might not come to mind. Years ago, trucks were considered workhorses, usually for hauling debris, construction and farm materials; bouncing through muddy fields and ditches; and pulling trailers, all while squeezing three or more passengers in one cramped bench seat.

No longer are pickup trucks just for moving stuff. Today’s pickup trucks offer luxury features similar to the top SUVs and sedans. The third best-selling luxury pickup truck model is a GMC Sierra Denali. The 2024 Ultimate model with a few extras test driven costs about $101,000. 

What makes it so special? 

Often, for us short-statured folks, it’s a test of strength to climb up into trucks that sit up high. However, when the key fob was engaged, the running board step appeared automatically. The LED lighting made me feel like a celebrity stepping on a stage.

Inside, one feels like a giant among all the smaller vehicles. It’s not quite like a semi-truck, but the Denali is one of those vehicles where you can look down at other SUVs and see what the passengers are doing. It’s a unique road trip diversion instead of playing the license plate game.

The contrasting Alpine Umber leather trim with Paldao wood is unique. Detailing along the front passenger dash showcases an embossed, laser-etched topical map. It’s based on the patterns of Mount Denali’s summit in Alaska, after which the vehicle is named. At first glance, it looks like someone accidently ran a knife along it, but the salesperson quickly corrected my thinking that it was a defect.

The 20-inch ultra bright aluminum wheels with glass black inserts set the truck apart from others. The front grille is a unique signature design called the Vader chrome grille. According to GMC, the grille is intended to provide the pickup truck with a more “sinister, darker-themed demeanor.” 

A six-function multi-tailgate opens and shuts easily when the fob is engaged. With several steps on the corner, plus a step tailgate, it offers ease for loading and unloading into the 6-foot by 9-foot lined bed. 

The Denali is ideal for trailering. It can tow up to 20,000 pounds, so you can pull a trailer, along with a small car, plus load them up with all your glamping essentials. 

Fourteen different camera views offer a 360-degree view for safety, trailering and parking. You can even get a close-up camera view of the car directly behind you. I recommend turning off the view on the rearview mirror, as it feels almost claustrophobic with cars speeding in both directions.

Like other folks, I often wonder, “Is a GMC a Chevy?” They are related. In 1912, GMC, originally known as Grabowsky Motor Company, produced its first mass-produced pickup truck. In 1918, GM acquired the Chevy motor company, so Chevy is a subsidiary of GMC, now known as General Motor Company.

An article by CARFAX says GMC pickups and Chevy Silverados are cousins and virtually the same truck inside and out, except for a few features. The biggest difference? The price tag, with a Silverado costing about $20,000 less. 

If you’re looking for a luxury pickup truck that stands out, rides high and offers a sinister look and feel, a Sierra Denali might be the truck for you. ♦