The GMC Canyon Denali Makes its Appearance Ahead of L.A. Auto Show

2017 GMC Canyon Denali​ (Credit: © GMC)

There were rumors it was coming, and typically there is some truth behind these reports. Well, just weeks after reports indicated that GMC was working on a Denali version of the Canyon, here it is.

Differentiating the Denali version from the rest of the Canyon lineup is plenty of chrome, including the grille, fog light bezels, rectangular assist steps, and the exhaust tip. Rounding out the Canyon Denali’s exterior is a set of 20-inch ultra-bright aluminum wheels and a spray-in bed liner.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali​ (Credit: © GMC)

Inside the cabin, the Canton Denali gets all of the luxurious bits we’ve come to expect from this nameplate. These bits include Jet Black Mulan perforated leather seats with heat and ventilation, a unique instrument panel and console trim, a heated steering wheel, and Denali logos on the doorsill plates and floor mats.

Also included in the Canyon Denali’s cabin are plenty of tech bits. These include forward collision alert, lane-departure warning, GMC IntelliLink with navigation, an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, OnStar 4G LTE with a WiFi hotspot, auto climate control, a full-color driver info center, a remote starter, and three USB ports.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali​ (Credit: © GMC)

The GMC Canyon Denali has two available engines. The standard powerplant is a 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. The optional engine is a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel that cranks out 181 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The former can tow up to 7,000 pounds and gets up to 26 mpg highway, while the latter tows up to 7,700 pounds and delivers 31 mpg highway.

Both engines come with a six-speed auto transmission and are available with two- or four-wheel drive. The diesel engine also gets a smart diesel exhaust brake and an integrated trailer brake controller.

Pricing is not available yet, but GMC did announce that the Denali will only come with a Crew Cab body and will hit showrooms in late 2016.