Sierra Denali all about choices

At a recent press conference, GM officials described the new Sierra as a bit understated, but confident — “like a Marine in dress blues.”

And like a Marine, this truck means business. Engineered to offer a maximum payload capacity of 2,160 pounds, its broad shoulders and strong back are ready and able to put in a full day’s work or play.

The goal for the 2007 Sierra was to not only accentuate the popular rig’s well-known strengths, but to fashion a more well-heeled environment. Without sissyfying the rig, comfort items typically found in luxurious SUVs were transferred to the Sierra, including heated leather seating and a Bose speaker system with rear-seat audio on selected trims.

Then GMC’s engineers went one step further and created the Sierra Denali, a comprehensive package of performance, luxury and style unlike anything GMC has previously offered.

The 2007 Sierra is all about choices. It’s powered by a selection of five engine options, starting with a 4.3-liter V-6 and moving up the food chain to a 400-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8, although GMC expects the mid-level 5.3-liter option will be the most popular.

There are five new suspension packages to choose from, including one for maximum trailering capability; eight power train combinations; three cab configurations — regular, extended and crew cab; and three box lengths — short, standard and long. The Sierra is offered in four trim levels, including an exclusive Denali model.

For many people, their pick up truck is more than just transport. In many cases, it’s a partner in work. To accommodate a multitude of uses, the Sierra offered a cargo management system that includes a raft of accessories.

Fit and finish throughout the truck are noticeably improved. Flush fits replace the previous generation’s disturbing body gaps. The end result is a quality, tailored feel both inside and out.

Best in class legroom, improved ingress and egress and more refined materials make the spacious cabin even more livable. Under-seat storage helps keep down the clutter.

Even the comfort of back-seat passengers was considered. Kids and critters will appreciate the rear doors that open a full 180 degrees.

All the passengers benefit from improved safety features. Side curtain airbags deploy in three different modes depending on the severity and location of the crash. Sensors even prepare occupants for a rear-end collision by deploying seatbelt pretensioners.

GMC is rolling out the light-duty models first. The Denali and the heavy-duty rigs will be available in the first quarter of 2007.