Tag Archives: gmc
The 2015 GMC Yukon Denali
Offerings from GMC have been virtually identical considering those bow ties on the grille, and are considered extra-sturdy and durable as a result of the “Professional Grade” marketing campaign. And henceforth the brand has been a consistent performer. One of the secret ingredients to the recipe of success for the brand is its idea of adding new vehicles to its lineup that do not strictly follow the defined lines by the brand or are altered to an extent that they are no longer recognizable as GMC. The very idea is fortified by the new 2015 GMC Yukon Denali. With additions to its equipment including the enhanced power support, new fold-flat rear seat and more comfortable interiors, the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali is powered by a newer engine offering better performance and efficiency. There are prominent changes in the styling and the full sized SUV promises to give its passengers better security and better entertainment with the improved security and infotainment packages.
Powered by an all new 6.2 liter V-8 Eco Tec3 engine, the grand SUV now boasts direct-injection technology, continuously variable valve timing, cylinder deactivation and avant-garde and active fuel management. Mated to a six speed Hydra-matic transmission with tap shift control, tow/haul mode and Auto Grade Breaking, the new GMC Yukon Denali is one step ahead when it comes to technology. Flaunting the best engine in the segment, the robust SUV runs on 420 horsepower and enormous 450 pound feet of torque! And for this very reason the vehicle sports a top speed of 180 mph and is capable of accelerating from rest to 60 mph in a sprint time of 6.8 seconds.
On the inside, the new Yukon Denali is calm and understated. The premium infotainment system sports a soft touch instrument panel, console and Bose surround sound. Dual-firmness foam of the front seats and ambient air ventilation elevates the comfort for the front seat passengers. The calmness of the 2015 Denali is added to by the active noise cancellation technology making everyday commuting into a rather delightful journey. On the outside, it is slimmer and more aerodynamic than its predecessor and hence is more efficient. The front boasts the signature GMC grille and headlamps equipped with exclusive high intensity discharge (HID) lamp. The additional exterior features include illuminated power retractable assist steps, new inlaid doors designed to open into the body side and light aluminum hood along with liftgate panel, a rear spoiler, all new worm screw-style liftgate arms and the standard 20-inch alloy wheels.
The new GMC Yukon Denali is a beasty full sized SUV that appears to be tracing the footsteps of the forthcoming Cadillac Escalade with its elevated level of techno wizardry. Yet the styling of the premium SUV remains essentially GMC. The 2015 GMC Yukon Denali has not yet been officially priced, but the giant SUV is expected to be priced as not much different from the 2014 version and hence the base price is anticipated to be $ 56,820. Despite the content and aspirations of the 2015 Denali are synonymous with Cadillac that bow on the grille marks its GMC-ness!
2013 GMC Acadia vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
GMC Acadia VS Ford Explorer
It is not necessarily easy to compete in the large crossover SUV category, but GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer manage to deliver standout performances in two very different ways. Both vehicles give you strong engines, impressive towing capabilities, third row seating and a ton of technology features, but while Ford takes the sporty and modern approach, GMC appeals to the more classic and elegant-minded buyer. Regardless which vehicle you choose, you are sure to enjoy a rewarding experience cruising in-city, on the highway, or down a secluded country road.
Performance
Every Acadia is powered by a 3.6-liter engine that buyers have come to trust and truly rely on through the years. It delivers 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and can tow 5,200 pounds with ease. All-wheel drive is available to provide you with an extremely intelligent powertrain capable of reacting to changing driving conditions. Fuel economy is average for this segment, returning 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Ford gives you a few different options. Explorer’s standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic to deliver 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Hill start assist and hill descent control are included. it can reach 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, and yields 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Properly equipped, towing capacity is 5,100 pounds.
Those opting for Explorer Sport will enjoy a turbocharged version of this same engine to boost performance to 365 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. There is also a turbocharged “EcoBoost” 2.0-liter four-cylinder available on front-wheel drive models that delivers 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration speeds drop but fuel-economy is impressive at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Driving and Handling
Although large, both SUVs are known for handling quite nicely. Will you need to slow down a little around turns? Probably! However, you won’t feel as though you are driving a tank either, like you might expect.
Acadia gets a fully independent suspension so bumps felt by one wheel are not transferred to the others. This helps to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride. Ford feels solid, even at highway speeds and the electric power steering system is incredibly responsive. Both vehicles will give you a commanding view and feel of the road, so whether you are stuck in traffic in, or cruising the back country roads you will feel confident.
Safety
Top safety scores in roof, front and side-impact protection from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety can be appreciated in Acadia and Explorer. These are family-friendly vehicles that have been designed with safety in mind. Acadia boasts a Front Center Air Bag, which is an industry first while Explorer gets Ford’s Curve Control; a feature that can monitor speed entering a corner and slow the vehicle down if needed.
Ford gives you the MyKey® system, allowing parents the power to set audio and speed control for younger drivers while GMC gives you OnStar, providing roadside assistance, automatic crash response and more.
Exterior
As mentioned, these SUVs provide two very distinct looks. Acadia is classic and sophisticated while Explorer is modern and sporty. Acadia gets full redesigned for 2013, with a new hood, front fascia, grille and wheel options. It offers a confident stance with clean lines and gorgeous new projector beam headlamps.
Explorer received a redesign two years ago, and fortunately, Ford did not fuss with it because it is the best design yet. Black lower bumpers offer a rugged look while chrome accents and a satin silver grille provide a modern attitude. Explorer has an agile, fluid look that Ford fans love, and the available 20-inch wheels are a must-have.
Interior
Both provide three rows of seating, but if you plan on using your third row for adults, Acadia would be your best option. Explorer’s third row is better suited for children, however Explorer also gives you a power-folding rear seat. Acadia seats up to eight passengers with more than enough room for adults to fill all three rows. The second row does slide easily to provide access the third row.
GMC gives Acadia a revised center console and handsome cabin accents while Ford has one of the most user-friendly interfaces on the market.
Technology and Entertainment
The Color Touch Radio with IntelliLink® is a highlight in Acadia, but is it enough to compete with SYNC®? These interfaces are very similar yet quite unique, so getting familiar with both could sway you toward one vehicle or the other.
Both vehicles also offer a rear seat DVD entertainment system to keep passengers entertained on the road. Acadia’s Color Touch Navigation System is vivid, easy-to-use and integrates seamlessly with SiriusXM® Traffic and Weather, but the 12-speaker Sony® audio system available is hard to pass up.
Image thanks to money.cnn.com