GMC 2500 Denali Review: Luxury Heavy-Duty Truck

Photo Source/Copyright: Edmunds

Chrome, authentic wood, and a hitch ready for heavy labor: the GMC 2500 Denali remains the heavy-duty (HD) Sierra tailored for drivers unwilling to choose between a work truck and a high-end daily driver. It will drag a loaded trailer across county lines before dark, then park outside a high-end steakhouse looking entirely at home. Starting at $75,200 MSRP (excluding destination fee), it represents a serious financial investment. Here’s a closer look at where those dollars actually go.

What the Denali Badge Brings

Every Sierra HD shares the same robust chassis, but the Denali trim is where GMC refuses to skimp on everyday touchpoints and cabin details. Standard features across the lineup include:

• Wheels: 20-inch Ultra-Bright machined aluminum with bright chrome inserts
• Cabin Trim: Authentic wood accents, patterned aluminum trim, and Forge perforated leather
• Front Seating: 12-way power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation
• Displays: 13.4-inch infotainment screen, 12.3-inch digital driver instrument display, and an available 15-inch head-up display

Gas Engine Standard, Duramax Diesel Available

Under the hood, GMC fits a standard 6.6-liter gas V-8 pushing out 401 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque through an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. Some truck buyers question a gas powertrain inside a luxury trim, but it serves a clear purpose. 

Keeping the gas V-8 as standard entry lowers the baseline price for the Denali interior. Drivers who only pull a camper a couple of weekends a year rarely require more power, and standard gasoline remains accessible at every gas station on the map.

For weekly heavy hauling, the optional Duramax 6.6-liter Turbo-Diesel V-8 delivers 470 horsepower and 975 pound-feet of torque through the same Allison 10-speed gearset.

Interior Comforts and Visibility

Climbing into the cab reveals an expansive cabin. GMC offers best-in-class standard front, head, and legroom in the Crew Cab configuration, giving taller drivers ample space. The perforated Forge leather allows seat ventilation to work efficiently on muggy summer days. 

Buyers can add an optional power sunroof alongside an available Rear Camera Mirror that proves invaluable whenever tall cargo obstructs the rear window.

Practical Towing Technology

At 250.75 inches long, a Crew Cab equipped with the standard bed demands caution when maneuvering through tight parking spots or crowded worksites. To assist, GMC integrates serious trailering equipment:

• Maximum Towing: Up to 21,870 pounds in properly configured Crew Cab trim
• ProGrade Trailering System: Includes the In-Vehicle Trailering App for setup checks
• Camera Coverage: Up to 14 distinct camera views, including a transparent trailer mode

Denali or Denali Ultimate?

A $19,000 price difference exists between the standard Denali ($75,200 MSRP, excluding destination fee) and the Denali Ultimate ($94,200 MSRP, excluding destination fee). A main driver of that gap is the Duramax diesel engine, which comes standard on the Ultimate. 

The Ultimate also adds an Alpine Umber interior with full-grain leather, Paldao wood trim, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, 16-way power massaging front seats, a Vader Chrome grille, and 20-inch wheels with gloss-black inserts.

Looking Ahead

GMC has revealed updates for upcoming variants. The Denali Ultimate will feature a new Duramax 8.3-liter Turbo-Diesel V-8 producing 555 horsepower and 1,230 pound-feet of torque. Max towing increases to 23,100 pounds, accompanied by electric power steering and eBoost braking systems. 

Pricing hasn’t been announced as of this writing, so the decision comes down to a proven truck you can drive home now, or the newest one on order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the starting price for the Sierra 2500 Denali?

A: $75,200 MSRP for the Denali and $94,200 MSRP for the Ultimate, both excluding destination fees.

Q: What engine options are available?

A: A 6.6-liter gas V-8 is standard on the Denali, with an optional 6.6-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel. The diesel comes standard on the Ultimate trim.

Q: What is the maximum towing capacity?

A: Up to 21,870 pounds when properly equipped.

See One in Person

Photos flatten that cabin. Stop by, climb in, and line up a test drive, or browse our current inventory.