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One 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 trim is more popular than the rest of the lineup. Like many GMC models, the luxurious Denali trim is the most desirable to buyers. It offers so many excellent features, but the price is as high as the number of amenities. Why is the 2023 GMC Sierra Denali so popular despite its high starting price? With so many options in the full-size truck segment, it’s surprising the fancy trim is the one most customers want to buy.

Luxury pickup trucks include this 2022 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate
A 2022 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate | GMC

According to Edmunds, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is the most popular trim. Starting at $65,595, the luxurious model is more expensive than four other models in the Sierra 1500 lineup. Starting with the base model Pro, the Denali is roughly $22,000 more. Even by moving up the list to the SLT trim, one below the Denali, there is a $10,000 gap between it and the most popular model. What makes such a costly trim level so popular among buyers?

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 price
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate | Allison Barfield, MotorBiscuit

With such a high starting price, it would be a safe assumption to think customers avoid the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali. However, it’s quite the opposite. The first reason we believe buyers love the Denali is its many engine choices. The Sierra 1500 lineup has a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, a 5.3-liter V8, and a 6.2-liter V8. Standard and optional engines vary per trim level, but the Denali has access to all but the four-cylinder. Choosing between three potent engines is an excellent start for many full-size truck buyers.

2023 GMC Denali full-size truck: More safety

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 off-roading why is it so popular
2023 GMC Sierra 1500 | GMC

The next reason the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is so popular is that it gains safety features. Since it includes features from lower trims and the safety features for the AT4X, it’s very well-equipped. For example, cruise control, a safety alert seat, automatic rear braking, pre-wiring for trailer camera view systems, a surround-view camera system, and a trailer blind-spot monitor.

Then from the AT4X, it gets a bed-view camera, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and a virtual rearview mirror camera. Exclusively for the Denali trim, the automaker added an adaptive suspension for a more comfortable ride and handling, plus an integrated brake controller.

Denali is synonymous with luxury

Like most GMC models with Denali in their title, the name screams luxury. Those luxurious chops shine through in the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali with many extra features. A Bose audio system, 20-inch wheels, side steps, heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, and wireless charging capability enhance the full-size truck. In addition, a power-sliding rear window and power-tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel aren’t bad to have, either.

Taking it many steps further to the Denali Ultimate model is expensive, but the features are even more plentiful. For $82,295, owners get 22-inch wheels, a carbon-fiber composite bed, power-deploying side steps, a sunroof, tailgate-mounted speakers, adaptive cruise control, 12-speaker Bose premium audio, a virtual mirror camera, and Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system.

In conclusion, the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali is so popular for several reasons. First, it’s one of the only models that can optionally choose any of the most potent engines. Next, it has more safety features than any other model, including those featured in lower trims. Finally, it’s the most luxurious model, and buyers can step it up even more with the Denali Ultimate. Although expensive, GMC full-size truck buyers are clearly interested in fancy features, and the Denali model has them.

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