2005 GMC Sierra Denali New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 GMC Sierra Denali?
The 2005 GMC Sierra Denali is available only as a Crew Cab model this year, replacing the former Extended Cab version. Thanks to tweaked engine components, the Vortec 6000 V8 makes 345 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque (up 325 and 365, respectively), but oddly, towing capacity is down to 8,100 lbs. Gone for 2005 is the handy Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system. A new power sunroof option includes a Homelink universal transmitter and an overhead console to hold your odds and ends. Rugrats can now be sedated by the new DVD rear entertainment system with audio controls, and a rear-sliding window adds ventilation.

Advantages of the 2005 GMC Sierra Denali:

• Stout powertrain combination
• Standard all-wheel-drive
• Lots of lux for the bucks
• Plenty of room for five adults

Objections to the 2005 GMC Sierra Denali:

• Front seat comfort could be improved
• Interior materials look and feel inexpensive
• Structural rigidity not up to the standards in the class
• Quadrasteer is no longer available

Editor's Advice:
Based on the 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab, the 2005 GMC Sierra Denali is distinguished on the outside by unique trim such as a chrome mesh grille, projector-beam headlights, and polished 17-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the 2005 GMC Sierra Denali is upholstered with premium leather and can be equipped with goodies like a power sunroof and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Under the hood, a 6.0-liter Vortec V8 spins out 345 healthy horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque, driving all four wheels through the standard all-wheel-drive system. Fuel economy is rated at 12 mpg in the city and 16 on the highway, and that's under the EPA's light foot. Other key hardware components include a heavier-duty Z71 suspension and a Hydroboost braking system, and the Sierra Denali can tow up to 8,100 pounds. Is the 2005 GMC Sierra Denali Crew Cab the ultimate personal-use pickup? No, because that distinction has been bestowed upon the Cadillac Escalade EXT. If GMC would toss its outstanding Quadrasteer system back into the mix, then we could talk.