MotorTrend has taken notice of and praised the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali Heavy Duty truck. This GMC Sierra truck is the first model that offers the luxurious Denali trim on one of GMC’s toughest trucks. The combination of luxury and performance on the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali Heavy Duty truck will continue to “wow” drivers in Charlotte, Matthew & Monroe, NC.

According to a MotorTrend article, “GMC has always been about “Professional Grade” trucks, but the Denali trim level takes it up a notch or two — it’s the package for people who work hard but like to do it in style, too.”

Several enhancements that are specific to the Denali package include a four-bar chrome grille, chrome accents on the doors and door handles, and new 18- and 20-inch polished forged aluminum wheels. Inside, the Denali package features a superior Bose audio system, power-adjustable pedals, 12-way power seats, and brushed aluminum trim. Optional heated steering wheel, as well as, heated/cooled seats are also available.

GMC also spent a great deal of effort on upgrading the Sierra’s chassis and powertrain. The result is a 20,000-pound maximum towing capacity with a fifth-wheel trailer, as well as a 16,000-pound maximum towing capacity with a traditional hitch, and a 6,335-pound maximum payload capacity.

On the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali Heavy Duty truck, the latest version of the 6.6-liter Duramax turbo diesel V-8 makes all of this power and towing capacity possible. This V-8 engine has been re-engineered to increase both the Sierra’s strength and improve efficiency. The Duramax has been rated at 397 horsepower and an amazing 765 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm. This resulted in a best-in-class figure that’s a 32 horsepower and 105 lb-ft improvement over last year’s engine.

In addition, the automaker has reduced the engine’s NOx emissions by 63%. For those who don’t need that level of horsepower and torque, there is also the 6.0-liter Vortec gasoline V-8 (360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque), which has a new camshaft that increased torque at low RPM.

The latest Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission has been beefed-up to handle the extra torque of the upgraded diesel motor. The article continues to say that, “GMC boasts that the transmission has been specifically built to match either the gasoline or diesel engine for maximum efficiency and ideal gearing. Those sticking with gasoline will get an upgraded 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission, an upgrade from the 6L80 found on current models.”

In addition to the other features, GMC has also upgraded its front suspension for a smoother ride and easier handling. In the rear, a new asymmetrical leaf-spring rear suspension has wider leafs, which allows for a higher payload capacity and less axle-hop. All these heavy-duty upgrades are possible due to “11 all-new, fully-boxed frames to underpin the cab and box configurations. GMC says the new frames are five times stiffer on their own while the hydro-formed front sections are 125% stiffer.”

Whether for work or play, the serious truck driver now has an option if he/she desires a combination of luxury and performance. See the new GMC Sierra truck ad below to see some of the ways the 2011 GMC Sierra Denali Heavy Duty truck can perform for you.

These impressive trucks may be found at any of the Charlotte, Matthews or Monroe Liberty Buick GMC dealer locations. For more information on the powerful 2011 GMC Sierra Denali Heavy Duty truck, visit www.clickliberty.com, download the 2011 GMC Sierra brochure here, or call 888-306-1908.

CCP Web Design Staff Writer: Kimberly Brouillette, 4/5/11