GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate
2016 GMC SIerra Denali Ultimate
2016 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate

2018 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate

Pros: Expansive passenger and cargo room; well-designed technology features; broad range of models, body configurations, and powertrains to choose from

Cons: Prices rise quickly as options are added; ride comfort doesn’t quite match Ram 1500—it’s a bit jiggly over rough pavement

CG Says: For 2018, the GMC Sierra’s eAssist hybrid system is available nationwide. Previously, eAssist was only available in California. Sometimes called a “mild” hybrid, eAssist provides additional torque during acceleration via a motor/alternator/generator located on the gasoline engine itself. The eAssist system will not propel the vehicle on electric power alone, but it does provide automatic stop/start capability–and some extra power. All Sierra models now have a standard rearview camera and the tire-pressure monitor now has an audible tire-fill alert. The Sierra is a full size pickup with a choice of three engines: a 285-horsepower 4.3-liter V6, a 355-hp 5.3-liter V8, or a 420-hp 6.2-liter V8. The V6 is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 5.3-liter V8 has a 6-speed automatic or an 8-speed automatic, depending on model. eAssist is added to the 5.3-liter V8 and has an 8-speed automatic. The 6.2-liter V8 also is paired with the 8-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard and full-time 4-wheel drive is available. Available features include forward collision alert, low-speed emergency automatic braking, lane-keep assist, adjustable Magnetic Ride Control System, hill-descent control, locking rear differential, rear-seat entertainment system, wireless charging pad, heated/ventilated front seats, and heated steering wheel. The GMC Sierra stacks up well against class rivals, and—like its Chevrolet Silverado sibling—offers strong, refined engines, good on-road behavior, plenty of handy in-cabin storage, and an impressively quiet driving environment; top-line models such as the Denali add a healthy dose of luxury to the mix. Sierra lags the Ram 1500 in handling and ride quality (as do all other full-size pickups), but it’s still a Best Buy in this class.

The Facts
Class Large Pickup Truck
Body Style(s) regular cab, extended cab, crew cab
Passenger Count 3 to 6
Drive Wheels rear-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive
Manufacturer GMC
Nation of Manufacture USA, Mexico
Base Prices (Only select models listed)
Base regular cab, 6.6-ft bed: $30,200
4WD Base regular cab, 8-ft bed: $34,440
4WD SLE Double Cab, 6.6-ft bed: $43,350
SLT Crew Cab, 5.75-ft bed: $46,485
4WD Denali Crew Cab, 6.5-ft bed: $57,550

Base Engine
4.3-liter V6
Horsepower
285
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
17-18
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
22-24

Optional Engine
5.3-liter V8 eAssist Hybrid
Horsepower
355
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
16-18
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
21-24

Optional Engine
5.3-liter V8
Horsepower
355
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
8-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
15-16
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
20-23

Optional Engine
6.2-liter V8
Horsepower
420
Std. Transmission
8-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
15
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
20-21

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