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How are the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali & Denali Ultimate Different?

A photo of the Denali Ultimate badge used in the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate.

What’s the Difference Between the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali & Denali Ultimate Trims?

Ernie Dean customers choosing the GMC Sierra 1500 are no strangers to well-appointed, well-equipped premium pickup trucks. For a long time, the Denali model was the lineup’s top-of-the-line offering. However, the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 will be introducing a new variant that will slot above the Denali – the Denali Ultimate. To be sure, both trucks will offer a unique ownership experience that simply isn’t available from the competition, but how do the two Denali models differ? This is an interesting question posed by more than one Ernie Dean product expert. Let’s take a closer look at some things you should know.

READ MORE: Sierra/Silverado Availability Issues

How the 2022 Sierra Denali Ultimate & Denali Trims are Different

From a physical standpoint, the Denali and Denali Ultimate are going to be the same size in terms of length, width and overall wheelbase, at least when cabin styles and cargo beds are evenly matched. The chief difference between the two high-end pickup trucks will come down to aesthetic appointments and some new technology features.

So, if the Denali and Denali Ultimate are so similar, why did GMC create two different trim grades? This is an excellent question. The original Denali model would still be a top-of-the-line model from any other automaker. GMC has chosen to raise the bar with the Denali Ultimate using different accent trims, more standard technology like Super Cruise and the MultiPro Audio System by KICKER®. 

What are the Features of the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate

Right off the bat, GMC is describing the Denali Ultimate as, ‘…the most advanced and most luxurious pickup in its class…’ It features unique exterior accents, including a trim-exclusive Vader chrome grille, unique 22-inch wheels that are finished in Low Gloss Black and a matching Vader chrome GMC logo. Some of the other aesthetic Denali Ultimate content includes:

  • Standard Super Cruise with three-year subscription
  • Denali Vader Chrome grille
  • 22-inch low-gloss black aluminum wheels
  • Denali Ultimate Alpine Umber Interior
  • Full-grain leather seating
  • Authentic open-pore Paldao wood
  • 13.4-inch infotainment screen
  • 14 available camera views
  • Embossed topographical map patterns of Mt. Denali
  • 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage
  • 12-speaker Bose® premium stereo
  • Standard CarbonPro™ composite cargo bed

What are the Features of the  2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali?

Buyers choosing the Denali version of the 2022 GMC Sierra will also be getting a very handsomely equipped pickup truck. The interior is still refined with excellent materials and accents. Take a look at these available Denali interior features:

  • Available Super Cruise subscription
  • Two digital driver information screens
  • 15-inch heads-up display
  • Denali Premium Suspension with Adaptive Ride Control
  • Denali chrome grille
  • Trim-exclusive 22-inch painted aluminum wheels
  • Genuine open-pore wood interior panels
  • Brushed aluminum trim accents
  • Forge perforated leather seats
  • Available CarbonPro™ composite cargo bed

Which Engines Are Available on the Denali & Denali Ultimate?

The Denali and Denali Ultimate versions of the 2022 GMC Sierra will have fairly similar engine options. Buyers choosing the original Denali will see the 5.3-litre, V-8 as standard equipment. The 3.0-litre Duramax Turbo Diesel and naturally aspirated 6.2-litre, V-8 are available options. On the other side of the equation is the Denali Ultimate with its standard 6.2-litre engine. The Duramax Turbo Diesel engine is optional on the new Denali Ultimate trim.

Super Cruise Availability

One of the most impressive additions to the 2022 GMC 1500 Sierra lineup is Super Cruise. This innovative semi-autonomous driving system comes with a three-year subscription for Ernie Dean customers choosing the Denali Ultimate model. Buyers choosing the Denali can add the Super Cruise subscription as an option. 

Schedule an appointment with an Ernie Dean product expert, today, if you’d like to learn more about our available lineup, and to get the latest updates on the all-new 2022 GMC Sierra 1500.