2003 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Quadrasteer - A Nimble, Civilized Mannered Workhorse
If you don't include the SUV cum pick-up truck hybrid EXT, Cadillac doesn't really make a true dirt hauler. Those who need the interior space of a 5-occupant SUV combined with the multi-use capability of a full-size pick-up truck but still desire the pampering and prestige of a luxury car need only to look over at the GMC lot at the new Sierra 1500 Denali.
The regular Sierra 1500 is nearly identical to the Chevy Silverado 1500, except for its front end design and some trim. With upscale Denali trim, as first seen on GMC's full-size Yukon SUV, the Sierra takes on a distinct look of its own, further enhanced for 2003. The chrome laden front grille surround stays the same but the grille itself goes from matte black to yet more chrome, just like its SUV relative. Just barely noticeable but decidedly cleaner in execution, the side molding has been shortened to only cover the doors of the cab instead of extending further rearward across the boxes side panel. The rest of the truck stays the same despite the base Sierra's freshly restyled front fascia - that ironically now incorporates more chrome than the top-line model.
Staying the same has actually helped set the Denali further apart from its working class roots. Despite being chrome, its ovoid grille doesn't incorporate the sharper edged lines of the new Sierra 1500, nor the newly revised truck's headlamps, turn signals or shaped front bumper. The front half of the Denali's profile mirrors all Sierras while its box comes directly from the 1500HD Crew Cab Quadrasteer.