DENALI XT

The 2008 Chicago Auto Show was the location GMC announced its latest feat of Professional Grade engineering: The Denali XT Hybrid concept truck. Once again, GMC shows what can happen when our engineers never say never.

For the first time, GM's two-mode hybrid system will be combined with an E85 ethanol-capable engine. The new more efficient 4.9L SIDI engine with Active Fuel Management powers the Denali XT with an estimated 326 horsepower (243 kW). E85 is 85%25 ethanol and 15%25 gasoline. Visit www.gm.com/e85 to see if there is an E85 station near you.

A muscular form and a wide, firmly planted stance gives the Denali XT concept a confidently capable road presence. Minimal overhangs, large wheels, sleek headlamps, and a low roof profile deliver an aggressive, performance-oriented appearance. The Denali XT concept's design will include a new take on GMC's iconic grille, with a prominent, 4-bar element in addition to the large, red GMC logo and signature Denali background. Flared fenders accentuate the wide road stance. Large, bold 23-inch wheels and custom Kuhmo tires complement the Denali XT concept's stance.

Inside, the Denali XT concept will blend mechanical functionality with leather-trimmed comfort. The interior features innovative instrumentation with "floating" red-illuminated numerals backed by surface chaplets in the clusters and a large integrated vehicle interface screen.

With stiffness that is greater than most conventional, body-on-frame trucks, the Denali XT concept's unibody structure supports a very capable truck platform. It also will serve as the mounting point for a 4-wheel independent suspension that could give the vehicle its performance feel on the road. A 4-link suspension design uses coil-over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar to enhance cornering control, reduce body roll, and optimize longitudinal compliance. In short, it's a truck that would be capable of hauling cargo on twisting roads.

The easy-to-operate Midgate can be lowered to extend the cargo-carrying capacity inside the vehicle. The rear seats fold flat to provide a longer floor for carrying items such as skis, surfboards, or wood from the home improvement store. The Denali XT concept also has an estimated payload capacity of 1,100 pounds (499 kg) and a towing capacity of an estimated 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg).*

Take a look at the future of Professional Grade engineering: The Denali XT Hybrid concept.