Apr 23, 2009

GMC Adds Another Full-Size Hybrid Truck

Some might scoff at a hybrid version of a full-size SUV as something akin to the world’s tallest midget. But that thinking ignores the fact that some consumers need an eight-passenger vehicle that can also tow a trailer or boat. So General Motors continues to soldier on with its lonely but sincere attempts to limit the fuel consumption of large vehicles, introducing its latest offering: the GMC Yukon Denali.

Underneath its stately exterior, the Denali Hybrid offers the self-same two-mode hybrid system that powers the Sierra Hybrid pickup truck and the kissing cousin of the Denali, the Yukon Hybrid. Acknowledging that some need and want large vehicles, the Denali Hybrid is a luxurious, full-size SUV that seats up to eight, tows up to 5,800 pounds and still gets an estimated 21 miles per gallon in city driving, right around the economy turned in by a four-cylinder Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. The car offers consumers the have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too choice of luxury plus environmental responsibility.  

There is no denying its technical sophistication either. The integrated hybrid system starts with a 6-liter V8 engine equipped with Active Fuel Management, late intake valve closing and variable valve timing technologies. The 332 horsepower it produces is not hybrid-like, but two lightweight electric motors are packaged in the transmission. An electronic brake emulator provides blended regenerative braking, and the car also features electric power steering and an electric air conditioning compressor.

Compared to a much smaller Lexus GX 470, the Denali Hybrid could save 250 gallons of gasoline a year. It all helps you feel better about tooling around on 22-inch, eight-spoke, flangeless chrome wheels as you luxuriate on 12-way power, heated and cooled leather front seats. The only three options on the Denali Hybrid are a sunroof, rear-seat entertainment DVD system and blind-zone alert mirrors. The suggested price tag is just shy of $60,000, but we hear GM is dealing these days. Next Driving Today News>>