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2008 Chicago Auto Show: GMC Denali XT
CHICAGO — GMC is providing a glimpse at its future design direction as parent General Motors suggests potential variations on the 2009 Camaro's rear-wheel-drive platform, with the Denali XT hybrid sport-utility truck concept, set to debut at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show.
GMC is touting the Denali XT's advanced powertrain — a new 326-horsepower direct-injection 4.9-liter V8 that runs on gasoline or E85 ethanol, features cylinder deactivation and is mated to GM's two-mode hybrid system that enables it to run on pure electricity at low speeds.
But even more intriguing is the potential for the new Zeta platform, which is being engineered at GM's Holden subsidiary in Australia and will underpin the new Camaro and other future GM rear-drive models in North America.
GMC confirmed that the four-door Denali XT features unitized construction — a lighter and more fuel-efficient alternative to conventional body-on-frame truck designs — and that its design and engineering were done by Holden.
The truck rides on an ample 123.4-inch wheelbase, with a 55-inch bed and seating for four. A removable "midgate" and fold-flat rear seats extend the vehicle's cargo-carrying capability. GMC says the Denali XT has a payload capacity of 1,100 pounds and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The concept rides on 23-inch wheels and custom Kumho tires.
Because it sits on a variation of the Camaro's Zeta platform, the Denali XT would also have good ride and handling characteristics, with all-independent suspension, including a multilink setup in front and a four-link rear with coil-over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar.
The concept-like cabin has "floating" gauges, an oversize interface screen, billet-metal trim and bespoke seats trimmed in saddle leather.
What this means to you: Let's see: better fuel economy, lower emissions and crisper handling. What's not to like about this futuristic truck? — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
GMC is touting the Denali XT's advanced powertrain — a new 326-horsepower direct-injection 4.9-liter V8 that runs on gasoline or E85 ethanol, features cylinder deactivation and is mated to GM's two-mode hybrid system that enables it to run on pure electricity at low speeds.
But even more intriguing is the potential for the new Zeta platform, which is being engineered at GM's Holden subsidiary in Australia and will underpin the new Camaro and other future GM rear-drive models in North America.
GMC confirmed that the four-door Denali XT features unitized construction — a lighter and more fuel-efficient alternative to conventional body-on-frame truck designs — and that its design and engineering were done by Holden.
The truck rides on an ample 123.4-inch wheelbase, with a 55-inch bed and seating for four. A removable "midgate" and fold-flat rear seats extend the vehicle's cargo-carrying capability. GMC says the Denali XT has a payload capacity of 1,100 pounds and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The concept rides on 23-inch wheels and custom Kumho tires.
Because it sits on a variation of the Camaro's Zeta platform, the Denali XT would also have good ride and handling characteristics, with all-independent suspension, including a multilink setup in front and a four-link rear with coil-over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar.
The concept-like cabin has "floating" gauges, an oversize interface screen, billet-metal trim and bespoke seats trimmed in saddle leather.
What this means to you: Let's see: better fuel economy, lower emissions and crisper handling. What's not to like about this futuristic truck? — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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