GMC Denali XT concept makes debut in Chicago [updated]

[Update: Live auto show images added.] Decades ago, GMC sold re-badged versions of the Chevrolet El Camino called the Sprint and Caballero. Today, the automaker unveiled a concept vehicle at the Chicago Auto Show that is similar in principle, but completely different in execution.



While classics like the El Camino -- and similar modern-day vehicles like the Holden Ute -- are car-like in appearance, the Denali XT concept looks very much like a GMC truck.

Despite its beefy appearance, the Denali XT does not have a truck frame chassis, nor is it high off the ground. Instead, it is based on GM's Zeta platform, which underpins the Holden Commodore, Pontiac G8, and Chevrolet Camaro.

The unibody truck is perhaps the first of its kind. While the Holden Ute also features this style of construction, the Denali XT offers more utility, and four doors instead of just two.

GM says the lightweight construction and efficient mechanical design offers a 50-percent increase in combined fuel economy over comparable small pickup trucks when running on gasoline.

But they didn't stop there. The Denali XT concept also incorporates a hybrid powertrain that further improves efficiency.

The system combines a 4.9-liter version of GM's small-block V8 with electric two-mode hybrid technology. The engine can run on ethanol E85 fuel and features technologies such as direct-injection technology and Active Fuel Management. Despite the Denali XT's greener intention, it still kicks out 325 horsepower.

"Like all GMCs, the Denali XT is functional and capable, but it blends those traits with a more efficient, sporty driving experience," said Jim Bunnell, GMC general manager. "It is a vehicle that exemplifies GMC's engineering excellence, as well as GM's commitment to hybrid and advanced technologies."

With its unibody structure, the Denali XT is lighter than conventional body-on-frame trucks, with great ride-and-handling characteristics. This design enhances fuel economy while giving the vehicle a sporty driving experience. True to its GMC Professional Grade heritage, the Denali XT is filled with technologies and features that maximize its flexibility, including a cargo space-enhancing Midgate�'® and height-adjustable suspension.

The Denali XT's proportions are framed around a high cowl and 123.4-inch (3,134 mm) wheelbase. This enhances the vehicle's truck functionality, but packages it in an efficient, unibody architecture.

Design and construction were spearheaded by Holden Design, within the Australian arm of GM's global design and engineering network.

"Denali XT is about working hard, playing hard and enjoying an active lifestyle," said Bunnell. "It is the same philosophy that has helped make the GMC Acadia crossover a huge hit with consumers."

GM says overall stiffness is greater than most conventional, body-on-frame trucks, making Denali XT's capable off-road and for hauling. The stiffness also improves on-road handling, as does four-wheel independent suspension and an adjustable ride height.


The rear cargo area is wide, deep and flat, with no suspension or wheelhouse protrusions; the cargo floor measures 55 inches long (1,397 mm) by 47.5 inches wide (1,206 mm). It all adds up to the space to haul a wide variety of lifestyle accessories.

The Denali XT has an estimated payload capacity of 1,100 pounds (499 kg) and a towing capacity of an estimated 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg).

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