GMC has drawn a bold line from past to future with a head-to-head showcase of the 2002 Sierra Denali and the upcoming 2026 Sierra EV Denali, highlighting how the iconic luxury pickup has transformed over nearly 25 years while staying true to its roots of capability, comfort, and innovation.
First launched in 2002, the Sierra Denali redefined expectations for full-size pickups. With a 6.0-liter Vortec V8 engine, opulent leather interior, woodgrain accents, and the groundbreaking Quadrasteer four-wheel steering, it proved that trucks could deliver both muscle and refinement. The example used for comparison, preserved at the GM Heritage Center, remains a pristine reminder of the nameplate’s original promise.
Fast-forward to 2026, and the Sierra EV Denali carries that legacy into the electric age. Equipped with up to 760 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque in Max Power mode, the truck boasts a GM-estimated 478-mile driving range on a full charge. Advanced features like 4-Wheel Steer with CrabWalk, Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance, and cutting-edge infotainment mark a new era of capability and convenience.
“The influence of the original Denali pickup is immediately visible in the 2026 model,” noted GM News editor Bob Sorokanich. “Where the vintage truck offered Quadrasteer for nimble handling, today’s Sierra EV Denali takes it further with CrabWalk and autonomy-ready technology.”
The side-by-side test drive, led by GM’s Shad Balch, underscored just how far Denali luxury has come—from pioneering V8-powered toughness to all-electric sophistication designed for modern drivers.
By blending heritage with electrification, GMC positions the Sierra EV Denali as both a tribute to its origins and a bold step into the future of luxury trucks.
