The Denali's 4,535 kg (10,000 lb) towing capacity and 781 kg (1,722 lb) payload are possible because of its high capacity rear axle and 51 mm (2.0 in) front and 45 mm (1.8 in) rear twin-piston brake calipers, aided by standard ABS enhanced 4-wheel disc brakes. Smoother stops are complimented by the Denali's ZX3 ride control suspension. It consists of 46 mm (1.8 in) shocks all-round, allowing the driver to flick a switch on the dash for either a firm or smooth ride.
Smooth riding suspensions are usually associated with luxury cars, not trucks. Well, as stated in the beginning of this road test, the Denali isn't your average truck. It hardly holds back when it comes to pampering its occupants, with two-tone leather covered seats and door trim, power windows, mirrors and locks with keyless entry, to name just a few luxury features. The front seats are 6-way power actuated with driver's side power lumbar support and memory seating position functionality. The leather wrapped steering wheel includes cruise and audio controls, the latter connecting to an AM/FM stereo with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, cassette player and rear seat audio controls. Gadgets include an electrochromic inside rearview mirror with compass and temperature readout plus a trip computer (or driver information center as GM likes to call it) incorporating fuel economy info, a personal trip computer, business trip computer, 15-day vehicle history, programmable door locks, language selection, fuel remaining range and annual cumulated mileage. GM's OnStar communication system comes standard as well.
Clearly GMC has answered the question as to whether a buyer exists for a pick-up truck with a $55,000 plus price tag. Is it worth it? To many it is. When it comes down to it the Sierra Denali offers the versatility of two, three or maybe even four vehicles. It's a load hauling pick-up with an SUV's passenger space, economy car maneuverability and luxury car appointments. That sounds like a pretty good combination.