denali | BostonOutdoor

2013 Sierra Denali, best in class hauling machine

The 2013 Sierra Denali Crew Cab has a comfort range stretching from a city construction site to the countryside. This beast could most likely pull a tree out of the ground, but I thought it was in my best interest not to try while GMC provided me the truck for a week to review. It can, though, easily pull 12,000 plus pounds. What I did try was taking my young family on an excursion to way upstate New York to a place called Black Lake…A body of water that freshwater fishermen come from far and wide for some of the best fishing in the state. The interior of the vehicle was super spacious for my wife and two young girls plus their car seats. It was also extremely refined and included a heated steering wheel. Of course I tried it, although it was 65 degrees out. Other key features in the Sierra Denali model: 12-way power front seats wrapped in premium perforated leather, heated and ventilated front seats (can’t get over how great the ventilated seats are), woodgrain cabin trim, and Bose surround-sound audio system. I really like the USB port in the main storage console. On the outside, the Sierra Denali is equipped with additional chrome trim, heated power retractable side mirrors, side steps, and chrome wheels. The power plant of an engine offered for the Denali is a 6.6L Duramax diesel rated at 397 horsepower. The engine is B20 biodiesel capable with an Allison 1000 6-speed automatic transmission. It includes a Tow/Haul Mode as well as engine exhaust braking to better control speed on hills, and also to reduce brake wear. The standard 36-gallon fuel tank and engine efficiency moved us up to 640 miles between fill-ups. Upon breaking in the engine further on this brand new truck, I suspect it will get closer to 680 miles between fill ups. The Technology stack is pretty impressive as well. I was first sold on the USB port located in the center console and that was just the start. One killer option that was not active was the GMC WIFI. The truck has slick touchscreen for OnStar Navigation and Connection (1st 6 months no cost), Rearview camera, Sirius/XM and Bluetooth (a favorite for hands free calling and access to iTunes).