2005 GMC Graphyte Concept

The interior of the midsize Graphyte is stunning, futuristic and luxurious - an unusual set of words to describe any ordinary

Strips of Mokanto wood veneer as well as anodized and polished aluminum accent the rich, two-toned leather interior. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

GMC product. A pair of roof-long skylights stretch above, creating an airy, open ambiance within the vehicle, while strips of Mokanto wood veneer as well as anodized and polished aluminum accent the rich, two-toned leather interior.

The upper half of the cabin, including dashboard, headliner and arm rests, is finished in colour-keyed Spiral Gray leather, while the seats and the lower portions are done in an earthy Prairie Sandalwood tone.

Though the view of the road ahead may be commanding, the Graphyte is not at all like a typical SUV because of its low-mounted

In the Graphyte's rear quarters, passenger comfort and versatility take top priority. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

sports seats, and sports-car-like wrap-around dashboard and center console.

All important command centers, including those of the HVAC and audio, are mounted in organized stacks, which are displayed on the center LCD screen. The screen can also be used to display the hybrid's active drive system, showing which motors it is using.

Most of the Two-Mode hybrid system's technical work occurs under the skin, where eyes can't see, but a critical component in the drive-by-wire system - the gear selector - is in plain sight. Instead of a column- or floor-mounted unit, the Graphyte's shifter features three push-buttons - one to actuate drive, one for park and one for reverse.