It was fewer than six months ago that General Motors revealed its upcoming Hummer EV pickup truck to much fanfare, a move that simultaneously reintroduced the US military’s SUV brand into the civilian…

Fully-electric Hummer SUV to join GMC’s Hummer EV Supertruck for 2024

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
The new GMC Hummer EV SUV completes the Hummer EV family (so far). We think it looks fabulous and performs even better.

It was fewer than six months ago that General Motors revealed its upcoming Hummer EV pickup truck to much fanfare, a move that simultaneously reintroduced the US military’s SUV brand into the civilian market, and gave GMC its first electric vehicle. Now the General’s truck and SUV division has followed their EV Supertruck up with an electrified SUV that will do its part in repairing the once-maligned Hummer name.

Yes, Hummer, which was previously stigmatized as a gas-guzzling, anti-environmental brand, will no longer be a standalone marque within the General’s ranks. This makes a great deal of sense from a retail distribution perspective, being that GM needs to maintain its simpler four-brand stance in order to reduce marketing costs, compared to the high price of promoting the multitude of brands it once oversaw.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
The SUV rides on a shorter wheelbase than the pickup truck, making it more manoeuvrable on and off the road.

The new GMC-controlled sub-brand will take advantage of Hummer’s strong name recognition within the 4×4 overland community, and the emissions-free EV powertrain means that its brand image will no longer be plagued by its supposedly polluting predecessors.

To be fair to the Hummer brand’s original four models, the flagship H1 was mostly turbo-diesel powered and therefore fairly efficient for a military-spec off-roader, while the H2 (and H2T pickup) was based on the full-size Chevrolet/GMC Tahoe/Yukon, which were actually friendlier on fuel than some other full-size 4x4s of the era. The fact they remain popular models within GM’s SUV lineup shows GM may have made a mistake in letting the Hummer brand go as part of their restructuring.

2024 GMC Hummer EV Supertruck
The GMC Hummer EV Supertruck isn’t the brand’s first pickup, those being the Chevy Avalanche-inspired H2T and Colorado-based H3T.

Likewise, the mid-size H3 and H3T (pickup truck) were based on the previous-generation Chevrolet/GMC Colorado/Canyon trucks, so therefore the brand didn’t suffer as much from gasoline gluttony as it did from being targeted by environmental activists using it as a sacrificial mechanical scapegoat.

Now, however, GMC’s upcoming Hummer sub-brand could very well become an icon of zero-emissions righteousness. Then again, with zero-to-100 km/h taking just over 3.5 seconds, putting it neck-to-neck with Jeep’s outrageously potent 707-horsepower Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, not to mention dwarfing Land Rover’s new wilderness-conquering Defender (that it’s not stylistically dissimilar to) when it comes to exterior width, the new Hummer SUV wasn’t exactly designed to go up against Nissan’s Leaf for kilowatt cost per kilometer.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
The new Hummer EV SUV provides buyers with performance, utility and customization choices, with GMC ready to offer close to 200 accessories at launch.

Tesla has proven that it’s ok to produce ridiculously fast cars, as long as the power unit is electric. Hummer will ride on Tesla’s bandwagon, the latter brand already making a couple of crossover SUVs and soon adding a pickup truck, so far dubbed Cybertruck and about as whacky looking as automotive designs get (we expect the production model to appear a bit more mainstream).

The Tesla and Hummer trucks will be joined by rival electric pickup truck (and SUV) makers including upstarts Alpha, Bollinger, Canoo, Fisker, Hercules, Lordstown, Nikola, and Rivian, while the upcoming Ford F-150 EV should eventually do epic battle against GM’s own Chevrolet BET (Battery Electric Truck—we hope they come up with a more engaging name), leaving Nissan’s Titan Electric Truck to pick up the scraps. Who knows how many of these will ever see the light of day, but some certainly will.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
Despite its blocky, bulky design, the new Hummer SUV will be ridiculously fast and agile.

Barring an economic meltdown, GMC’s new Hummer pickup will be one of the survivors, as will the just-released SUV. The two models’ performance won’t be detuned in production form either, with the truck’s top-line “3X” powertrain making a mind-blowing 1,000 horsepower that results in sprints from standstill to 100 km/h of just over 3 seconds. That’s Corvette territory performance from a truck that probably carries twice the curb weight, the speedy acceleration partially due to 11,500 lb-ft of instantaneous torque from its three electric motors.

You heard that right, both Hummer models’ top-line “3X” powertrain option are three times more fun than electric vehicles with just one motor. The SUV is “only” good for up to 830 horsepower, albeit the same 11,500 lb-ft of torque. The mid-range “2X” engine utilizes two electric motors for up to 625 horsepower and 740 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a zero to 100 km/h sprint time of roughly 5 seconds, incidentally, which will no doubt be enough for most buyers. Lastly, a base model merely dubbed EV2, featuring 400 volts of charging capability compared to the 2X and 3X models’ 800-volt/300kW charging systems, will be the entry-level gatekeeper.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
Original Hummers are legendary for their off-road prowess, so we should expect nothing less from the new electric version.

“GMC’s HUMMER EV SUV offers an exceptional balance of on-road performance and off-road capability, enhanced by a unique structure that allows for our signature open-air experience,” said Al Oppenheiser, Hummer EV chief engineer. “New features debuting on the SUV reinforce its role as a tactical tool in almost any situation.”

When the truck arrives in the fall of 2022 as a 2023 model, it will come in special “Edition 1” trim with its strongest performance setup, as will the SUV when it shows up in early 2023. Base SUV trims will arrive in the spring of 2024, probably for the 2025 model year, with other trims spaced out in between.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
An Infinity Roof with modular Sky Panels comes standard, creating an open-air experience for all aboard.

Range, the all-important question most EV buyers ask of their new ride, is 482 km for the SUV and 560 km for the truck, the difference due to four additional Ultium battery modules (24 compared to 20) fitting within the span of the latter vehicle’s 3,444-mm wheelbase—the SUV’s wheelbase is 226 mm shorter at 3,218 mm. A less potent base SUV, stocked with just 16 modules, should be good for more than 400 km of range in optimal circumstances. All trims feature GM’s new double-stacked battery pack, which comes as part of an interdependent body/battery structure to enhance the vehicles’ rigidity.

“The HUMMER EV’s body protects the battery, while the battery supports the structure,” added Oppenheiser. “That means the battery pack itself is a structural element, which enables a truly open-air experience and a rare combination of extreme off-road capability and smooth on-road performance in a body-frame integral platform.”

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
The Hummer SUV is practical too, featuring plenty of cargo space in the back, plus this “frunk” (front trunk) made possible thanks to its unique electric powertrain layout.

GM Canada is promising a base price of $88,898 (plus freight and fees) for that 16-module base EV2 model, but it’ll be the only Hummer SUV to slip below the six-figure price threshold. The 2X, alternatively, will be priced at $104,898 and 3X from a minimum of $119,398, with the Edition 1 setting early adaptors back $125,898.

Once near flagship Range Rover price levels, however, why not go for the gusto by opting for an Edition 1 with its Extreme Off-Road package, a mere $131,898 being the price of entry for underbelly skid plates that GMC actually calls “armour”, plus rock sliders, front eLocker and rear virtual locking differentials, HD ball-spline half-shafts, and 22-inch alloys wrapped in 35-inch-OD Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT rubber, not to mention front- and rear-facing UltraVision underbody cameras (with a wash system) to help you skirt over untoward obstacles.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
GMC calls the Hummer SUV’s cabin a “low-contrast Lunar Shadow interior”… ok. We just think it looks great.

Such extras should work wonders with the SUV’s already standard Crab Walk technology, which adjusts the standard four-wheel steering system so that all wheels are pointing in the same direction for diagonal mobility, while its air suspension with Extract Mode actually increases ground clearance to a maximum of 406 mm (16.0 inches) on the fly, helping the Hummer walk up and over tall rocks, roots, mud holes, etcetera.

For those willing to potentially scratch up their Hummer EV, it should at least be equal to its diesel and gasoline predecessors when off-road. The e4WD system’s ability to power a single wheel at a time should prove very helpful in slippery conditions, as should its 330 mm (13 inches) of suspension travel, ability to climb 60-percent grades while going forward or reversing, capability of scaling 457 mm (18-inch) vertical obstacles, and skills at fording more than 600 mm (two feet) of water.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster will make configuring the Hummer SUV’s controls easy.

Some noteworthy options will include a “multisensory, interactive experience” called Watts To Freedom, which provides special audio from the Bose sound system, plus kinesthetic sensations via the haptic driver’s seat, and visuals through custom displays that show the SUV’s performance mode as “armed and ready.” It’s all customizable in GMC’s My Mode, which lets drivers personalize driving features such as steering and suspension settings, as well as the SUV’s acceleration response and even the sound the motors make.

An Infinity Roof, along with modular Sky Panels come standard, creating the open-air experience chief engineer Oppenheiser described earlier. This will be ideal when trekking through the wild on a sunny day, whether actually enjoying the wilderness or navigating the urban jungle.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
The 13.4-inch centre touchscreen provides all the expected infotainment features, plus access to more than 175 underbody camera views.

The five-occupant SUV should be plenty practical, with its spare tire hanging on a powered side-swinging tailgate that opens up “wider than the vehicle itself.” GMC promises “an unimpeded 48-inch opening” and up to 2,316 litres (81.8 cubic feet) of cargo space when the rear seats are lowered. Additionally, more storage space can be found below the load floor, plus another compartment is integrated within the cargo area’s sidewall.

Speaking of wide, a large 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster gets joined by an even bigger 13.4-inch infotainment touchscreen at centre. Integrated within, the “In-vehicle Energy App” both monitors energy usage and can be used to set up charging schedules, condition the battery temperature, and more.

2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV
So what do you think? Can you see yourself driving the new 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV in a couple of years?

Tech in mind, a Digital Key lets owners use their smartphone as the key fob, while the SUV’s HD Surround Vision parking camera provides up to 14 camera views. The previously noted UltraVision underbody camera system offers up to 176 camera views, incidentally, plus a bevy of Off-Road Widgets provide performance readouts for off-road driving scenarios such as “ride height and eLocker engagement, compass headings, pitch/roll status,” and more.

All Hummer EV models can also be had with an updated version of Super Cruise, GM’s much-lauded semi-autonomous driver assistance technology that allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways. The updated system even includes new automatic lane changing.

If that wasn’t techie enough, DIY folks and campers will love the new optional Power Station generator that provides 19.2 kW of AC charging/generator functionality for accessories (120V/25A/3kW) and the ability to charge other EVs (240V/25A/6kW).

More detailed option pricing will be available closer to launch, as will the ability to configure the new Hummer EV models online. The SUV’s special Moonshot Green Matte paint will no doubt be on offer, as will a diverse palette of standard and optional metallic colours.

 

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | EXTRACT MODE | GMC (0:15):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | “Another Revolution” | GMC (3:30):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | THE NEXT ALL-ELECTRIC SUPERTRUCK | GMC (1:31):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | WHAT TWO CAN DO: TEASER SIX | GMC (0:30):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | ARRIVAL: TEASER FIVE | GMC (0:15):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | ANTICIPATION: TEASER FOUR | GMC (0:15):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | WITNESS: TEASER THREE | GMC (0:30):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | IMAGINE: TEASER TWO | GMC (0:15):

GMC HUMMER EV SUV | COUNTDOWN: TEASER ONE | GMC (0:15):

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: General Motors

Thanks to General Motors, the mid-size pickup truck market is once again starting to heat up. Toyota was hardly contested in this market for far too long, but GM reintroduced its Chevrolet Colorado and…

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain Road Test

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
GMC’s Canyon offers up a striking design, especially when upgraded to sporty 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Thanks to General Motors, the mid-size pickup truck market is once again starting to heat up. Toyota was hardly contested in this market for far too long, but GM reintroduced its Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon twins in 2015 and has steadily been gaining back market share ever since. 

In fact, after just a year of availability the two trucks combined for 12,652 sales, and by so doing snuck right past the Tacoma’s 12,618. That gap widened in 2017 with 14,320 GM mid-size truck deliveries and just 12,454 for Toyota, while as of September 30 this year the General managed to sell 12,702 Colorados and Canyons compared to Toyota’s tally of 10,703 Tacomas, so as long as the final quarter of 2018 follows suit it should be another banner year for these two domestic pickups. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The Canyon’s good looks wrap right around the entire truck. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Just in case you forgot (as most people did), Honda and Nissan sell trucks in this segment too. Still, despite an impressive second-generation Ridgeline the motorcycle company that initially started out selling a pickup truck was only able to lure in 3,169 new buyers over the same nine months of 2018, while Nissan, one of the originators of the compact pickup category, could only rally 3,071 of its faithful troops around its Frontier. 

Nissan hasn’t redesigned its Frontier pickup in so long it should be facing child abandonment charges, but the segment’s previous shabby chic offering, Ford’s Ranger, will soon be with us again, albeit much larger, thoroughly modernized and no doubt capable of taking on the top three. What’s more, FCA, the parent company of the Dodge brand that gave up on the Dakota, finally showed the new Wrangler-based Gladiator in production trim at the LA auto show, so this warming small truck market might soon be boiling over. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
These complex headlight clusters add a touch of sophistication to the Canyon’s form and function. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Again, we can thank GM for sticking its neck out with the Colorado and Canyon, because if it weren’t for these two the others wouldn’t have had verified proof that mid-size trucks were still worth investing in, only that buyers were waiting for some decent product to arrive. 

Decent is an understatement with respect to the Colorado and Canyon, mind you. Just look at this GMC Canyon in its 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain setup. I think its design is fabulous, and I always enjoy spending time behind the wheel, especially when its class-exclusive turbo-diesel four-cylinder powerplant is powering all four wheels. Honestly, this is the type of engine Toyota should be putting into its Tacoma, not to mention Ford and Nissan whenever replacements to their pickups arrive. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
Satin-silver trim, fog lamps and sharp looking alloy wheels make this mid-range pickup look like top-of-the-line. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I spend a lot of time in and around Metro Manila, Philippines, my second home (Antipolo City to be exact), and have witnessed all the diesel trucks on offer. The Ford Ranger mentioned earlier is easily one of the best looking pickups there or anywhere, also diesel powered, whereas the Asian-spec Navara is the truck Nissan should’ve imported to North America along with its fuel-efficient turbo-diesel powerplant. The Philippine-market Toyota pickup is dubbed Hilux and diesel-powered as well, while Chevy also sells a diesel-powered Colorado in the Philippines, although the rebadged Isuzu D-Max isn’t even close to North America’s Colorado. 

Duramax Diesel power is the first reason I’d recommend our Canadian-spec Canyon or Colorado to truck buyers here, even over the Tacoma. Some Canadians might pretend that fuel economy isn’t as big an issue now as it was before the oil crash, but a quick study of our current economic situation will show that it’s even more important to find economical transportation now than it was then, especially in a smaller, less-expensive pickup class that’s likely being purchased for financial reasons first and foremost. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
These rugged side steps provide a helpful leg up as well as protection to the lower body panels. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Only this past summer regular 97 octane rose to more than $1.60 per litre in my part of the country, and even our current $1.30 to $1.40 per litre range isn’t exactly cheap. In fact, our new low is considerably higher than just before the bottom fell out of big oil. What’s more, the majority of Canadians should be well aware how these low oil prices hit our collective Canadian gross domestic product (GDP) bottom line, not to mention the wallets of many Canadians’ personally, plenty which come from parts of the country where pickup trucks are a larger percentage of the market, such as Alberta, so it’s probably not a good time to be loose and easy with our fuel budgets. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The GMC Canyon separates itself from the Chevy Colorado by these unique taillights, amongst other exclusive styling details. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As for where the Canyon and Colorado fit within the overall scheme of things, let’s face the fact that most truck buyers would rather own a full-size Sierra or Silverado than anything mid-size. Bigger trucks deliver more space, comfort, performance and functionality, albeit at a higher price. This need to target entry-level pickup buyers is exactly why the smaller Colorado and Canyon exist, but before I go on let’s make sure we’re both perfectly clear about why these two trucks are succeeding in a market segment where others have failed miserably: they’re sensational. 

I can’t speak for anyone else, but as noted a moment ago I happen to think both trucks look great. I’m a bit more partial to the Canyon than the Colorado, unless the latter is upgraded to new ZR2 off-road race truck spec. Interestingly, styling matters at least as much amongst pickup truck owners as sports car zealots, buyers in this most utile of auto sectors wooed by rugged designs that appear like they could trek across seemingly impassable terrain as if they were domesticated equivalents of an M1A2 Abrams tank, or in the case of this smaller pickup something along the lines of the now-discontinued M551 Sheridan. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The Canyon provides an attractive, high-quality interior with room for up to five. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Adding an oil-burning variant only ups their go-anywhere character, the 2.8-litre Duramax turbo-diesel under my 2018 Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain tester’s sculpted hood capable of a stump-pulling 369 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm, not to mention a very efficient 12.1 L/100km in the city, 8.3 on the highway and 10.4 combined when configured for 4WD, or an even more impressive 10.8 city, 8.0 highway and 9.6 combined with RWD. By the way, it makes 181 horsepower at 3,400 rpm too, but that number isn’t quite as important in pickup truck circles, where useable towing twist is king for some and the ability to delve deeper into the wilderness on a single tank of fuel reigns supreme for others. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
This nicely laid out cabin provides excellent driver ergonomics. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The Canyon’s tow rating ranges from 2,449 to 2,812 kg kilos (5,400 to 6,200 lbs), while diesel models are equipped with an exhaust brake and an integrated trailer brake controller. Additionally, SLE trim gets trailering assist guidelines added to the otherwise standard backup camera, plus a Tow/Haul mode that raises transmission upshift points for more power when needed, and also raises downshift points so you can use the engine for compression braking. What’s more, an optional Trailering Package adds an automatic locking rear differential, a 50.8-mm receiver hitch, four- and seven-pin connectors, a seven-wire harness with independent fused trailering circuits, a seven-way sealed connector to hook up parking lamps, backup lamps, right and left turn signals, an electric brake lead, a battery and a ground.

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The 4.2-inch colour TFT multi-info display at centre has crystal clear resolution. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

All of that aforementioned torque sounds like it should make for blistering performance off the line, and while the diesel-powered Canyon 4×4 initially jumps forward with enthusiasm it’s not capable of spine tingling acceleration after that. Still, it’s hardly embarrassing on a highway onramp, moves fast enough to get you into trouble in the city or on the highway if you’re not paying attention, and is more than capable of passing motorhomes and big highway trucks when required. The diesel’s standard six-speed automatic downshifts quickly and is plenty smooth as well, but it could use with another gear or two on its way up to higher speeds. 

When off-road, shifting into 4WD high or low is as easy as possible, only taking the twist of a rotating knob next to the driver’s left knee. It’s a fully automated system, not forcing you to get out and lock the hubs, of course, but also not requiring a secondary lever to engage its low gear set, while crawling over rough terrain is this little truck’s forte. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The infotainment interface’s iPhone-influenced candy drop buttons are wonderfully colourful and easy to see in any light. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As you might expect by looking at its beefy suspension, my tester’s ride was firm when rock crawling as well as when bouncing down inner-city lanes, but it was hardly punishing. A larger truck like the Sierra offers more compliance due to its heavier weight, but certainly this smaller 4×4 was pleasant enough. Likewise, handling and high-speed stability is good for the class, with the Canyon fully capable when the road starts to wind and an enjoyable highway cruiser, but once again the larger Sierra delivers more in this respect. 

The Canyon’s leisurely pace makes it all the easier to enjoy its impressive cabin, and it really is quantum leap above anything GM offered in this class before, and even a step above most competitors. SLE trim offers a mix of premium-level soft-touch surfaces and harder plastics, the latter common in pickup trucks, while the softer detailing includes an upscale padded leatherette with red stitching covering the left and right sides of the dash top as well as much of the instrument panel, whereas the lower dash and door panels are made from the more durable hard stuff. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The 6-speed standard automatic with the base 2.5L four and the 2.8L turbo-diesel isn’t as advanced as the 8-speed that comes with the 3.6L V6. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Ahead of the driver, a digital and analogue gauge cluster features a fairly large 4.2-inch full-colour TFT multi-information display at centre that’s filled with useful features and superb graphics, while over on the centre stack is GMC’s new IntelliLink infotainment interface, which has become one of the best in the mainstream volume sector. It’s upgraded to the Canyon’s larger 8.0-inch touchscreen in SLE trim, and is easy to operate thanks to nice big ovoid Apple iPhone-style candy drop buttons in various bright colours and the ability to use tablet-style tap, pinch and swipe finger gestures. 

This test truck didn’t include optional navigation with detailed mapping, but GMC includes the very useful OnStar turn-by-turn route guidance system, while the SLE’s infotainment interface was also loaded up with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity (although these are even included on the base model’s now larger 7.0-inch infotainment display this year), a decent audio system featuring satellite radio and Bluetooth streaming (a Bose system is optional), text messaging, and of course plenty of car settings. Some buttons below the touchscreen allow quick access to radio, media and audio functions, plus the home screen, while a nicely sorted single-zone automatic climate control interface is set up in the old school button and knob style just below. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The front seats look great and provide excellent comfort with good lower back support. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

On that note, switchgear for GM’s excellent heatable seats can be found just under the HVAC system on a separate interface, these being especially good because they allow the ability to heat both lower and backrest cushions separately, or just the backrest alone, while just above these is a row of toggle switches for trailering, turning off the stability control, the bed light, hill descent control, and the hazard lights. 

A traditional lever gets used for shifting gears, with a plus/minus rocker switch on the knob for rowing through the cogs manually with your thumb. This means no paddle shifters are included, which is the case for most pickup trucks, but the steering wheel is nevertheless a nice sporty design with leather around the rim and more red stitching, while the switchgear on each spoke is very nice with rubberized buttons. The column is tilt and telescopic as well, whereas the seats are powered with fore/aft, up/down, and two-way powered lumbar support adjustments. Only the backrest needs manual actuation, which didn’t make one difference to me over my weeklong test. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
Other than seatbacks that are a bit too upright, only really tall folks will complain about being seated in back. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The upgraded upholstery features both smooth and textured leatherette around the edges with a comfortable cloth in the centre, plus “ALL TERRAIN” combined with a mountain graphic stamped on the backrests. Considering SLE is hardly top of the line, it’s all pretty impressive. 

The rear bench seat gets the same styling high-level treatment, and the outboard positions are quite comfortable other than having somewhat upright backrests due to space limitations. When the driver’s seat was set for my five-foot-eight frame I had about five inches available ahead of my knees when seated behind, so limousine-like wouldn’t be the term I’d use to describe the Canyon Crew Cab’s roominess, but most should still find it spacious enough, especially for this class. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The rear bench seat’s backrest folds flat to provide a good cargo hold. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The rear seatback can also be flattened for a handy load surface, or alternatively you can pull up the lower bench for stowing taller cargo you might want to keep out of the bed behind to protect from weather or theft, while lifting the seat also allows access to things stored underneath. I only wish GM had split the seat 60/40 for more passenger/cargo flexibility, but it’s hardly a deal-killer. 

A deal-maker, and perhaps a pickup truck game-changer that I absolutely must highlight, is the CornerStep-infused rear bumper, an intelligent design that adds handy toe cutouts to the corners of the back bumper to ease smaller statured and/or maturing folk up onto the cargo bed with more grace and less potential bodily harm, the latter especially relevant when wet weather transforms the otherwise tiny rounded nubs at each corner of every competitive truck’s rear bumper into a slippery accident waiting to happen. I love these, and really appreciated how easy this makes it for climbing onto the bed when the tailgate is lowered. 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
These rear bumper-integrated CornerSteps come standard, and truly make access to the bed easy. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Now that I’m talking features I’m realizing that I’ve neglected to go into detail regarding my tester’s standard kit, so over and above the equipment I’ve already mentioned my diesel-powered Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain was nicely outfitted with 17-inch alloys, a Z71 off-road suspension, skid plates, body-colour bumpers, side steps, remote start, four USB ports, OnStar 4G LTE and Wi-Fi, a sliding rear window, a tow package, and more for an as-tested price of $47,988 plus freight and fees. Of note, the base Canyon starts at just $23,310, but you can spend considerably more than my tester’s nicely equipped tally for a fully loaded version, especially if venturing into top-line Denali trim (to see all 2018 GMC Canyon trims, packages and options, plus rebate info and dealer invoice pricing that could save you thousands, visit CarCostCanada now). 

2018 GMC Canyon 4WD Crew Cab SLE All Terrain
The Canyon can manage heavy payloads and even heftier trailers. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

There’s a lot more I could say, but maybe it’s best to leave something special for you to personally discover. The Canyon is an impressive truck, and totally worthy of all the attention it’s getting from its ever increasing fan base. I recommend the turbo-diesel, but the base Canyon comes with what on paper seems like a reasonably strong 200 horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder and six-speed automatic combo, while upper trims can be had with a formidable 308 horsepower 3.6-litre V6 mated to an advanced eight-speed automatic. I’ve tested the latter and really enjoyed the extra power and smooth shifting gearbox, but in the end you’ll need to figure out which powertrain, transmission, driveline setup, body style and trim level you need for yourself, because GMC offers myriad options. This ability to fully personalize your ride really sets the Canyon, and its Colorado sibling apart from any rival, its three distinct engine options at the heart and core of this philosophy. More really is better, and GMC offers the most. Enough said.

What do you get when you stretch a Yukon Denali by 355 mm? A Yukon XL Denali, and we review an almost fully loaded example right here, right now. At more than $80k in base trim and above $90k as tested…

2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali Road Test

Remember when full-size truck-based SUVs were the environmental equivalent of the antichrist? Hummer was the "Chucky" poster child brand of everything automotively evil, and its 2010 demise at least partially due to socially falling out of favour with the do-gooder elite that helped it get a foothold in the mainstream market in the first place.

That would be pre-California governator Arnie Schwarzenegger in the driver's seat, the real Col. John Matrix even influencing the design of GM's Tahoe/Yukon-based H2 before turning up personally to introduce it in concept form at the 2001 New York auto show. Not long after it became politically incorrect to be seen in anything so carelessly gluttonous with fossil fuels (he first ran for governor in 2003 and was elected in 2006), a photo of Arnold spinning a globe of the world on his finger with the words "Save the Planet - Or Else" on the cover of Newsweek comes to mind. His environmental scorecard wasn't exactly Agent Orange, but then Read Full Story
Remember when full-size truck-based SUVs were the environmental equivalent of the antichrist? Hummer was the “Chucky” poster child brand of everything automotively evil, and its 2010 demise at least…

2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali

2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali
The 2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali looks positively rich with its massive chrome grille, 22-inch chrome wheels, and gorgeous optional White Frost Tricoat paint. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)
Remember when full-size truck-based SUVs were the environmental equivalent of the antichrist? Hummer was the “Chucky” poster child brand of everything automotively evil, and its 2010 demise at least partially due to socially falling out of favour with the do-gooder elite that helped it get a foothold in the mainstream market in the first place. That would be pre-California governator Arnie Schwarzenegger in the driver’s seat, the real Col. John Matrix even influencing the design of GM’s Tahoe/Yukon-based H2 before turning up personally to introduce it in concept form at the 2001 New York auto show. Not long after it became politically incorrect to be seen in anything so carelessly gluttonous with fossil fuels (he first ran for governor in 2003 and was elected in 2006), a photo of Arnold spinning a globe of the world on his finger with the words “Save the Planet — Or Else” on the cover of Newsweek comes to mind. His environmental scorecard wasn’t exactly agent orange, but then again it wasn’t anywhere near as green as predecessor Gray Davis’ agenda, or for Jerry Brown that both preceded and immediately followed, but the True Lies star had to at least look more steward than predator.
2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali
Long? This Ohio-class SUV needs a nuclear reactor of its own. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)
Not anymore. Arnold drives an even bigger military grade Hummer H1 now, while relatively cheap gas and even cheaper money has caused a spike in the number of big SUVs leaving domestic and imported brand showrooms. Only Toyota’s Sequoia (What’s that you ask?) has taken a downturn in recent years, with every other full-size mainstream branded SUV having had its best year in a very long time in 2016, if not its best year ever. GM dominates this segment, with 10,681 Chevy Tahoes/Suburbans and GMC Yukons down the road last year, while the next-best Ford Expedition found just 3,729 buyers. Nissan’s new Armada saw considerable growth in 2016 with 716 sales, whereas the aforementioned Sequoia dropped to 697 units. Here in Canada, GMC regularly outsells Chevrolet in the full-size SUV category, with last year’s totals being 5,446 units compared to 5,235, whereas it’s a much bigger gap in the opposite direction in the U.S. market where Chevy sold a total of 163,388 Tahoes and Suburbans to GMC’s 90,501 Yukons for a much greater per capita total of 253,889 units. Just for fun, can you guess how many plug-in hybrids and full-electric vehicles sold during the same 12 months? Out of 30 unique offerings, U.S. sales totalled a mere 159,139 units, and that’s after baiting customers with mega government handouts. So much for the environmental movement hitting the mainstream.
2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali
There’s lots to love about the Yukon XL Denali, including a full 14 inches of wheelbase and 20 inches of extra length over the regular Yukon. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)
To GM’s credit its Chevrolet Volt was a major player on that list of 30 plug-in models, while the new Bolt EV is a very real, affordable electric that consumers can buy now—no jab at Tesla intended. These (likely) money-losing bowtie projects are funded by the aforementioned high-profit SUVs, as well as even higher profit pickup trucks, ultra-popular crossover SUVs, and a number of strong selling conventionally powered cars (the new Malibu is superb, by the way), which is just another reason for Arnie and company to embrace the big SUV. Don’t get me wrong. I fully respect and appreciate Arnold Schwarzenegger; I loved Hummer, especially the final H2 and H2 SUT while rock-crawling around Aztec, New Mexico in 2008; and I adore the Yukon, especially this mammoth Yukon XL, GMC’s version of the 14-inch extended-wheelbase Chevy Suburban, making both 20 inches longer overall and more than doubling cargo capacity behind the third row. The Denali is even better, coming close to the ultimate Cadillac Escalade ESV experience without the, “In yo’ face mutha f…” hip-hop star attitude.
2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali
The Denali comes very well stocked with luxury and convenience features. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)
Its massive 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 feels like it’s got enough twist on tap to spin the world in the opposite direction when accelerating westward, its standard 275/55R20 or even meatier as-tested 285/45R22 rubber churning asphalt from all four corners via an efficient eight-speed automatic fed by 460 lb-ft of torque. Despite pushing 2,605 kilos (5,743 lbs) of bulk it feels light on its feet, but I best not go into driving dynamics details before the upcoming road test or this wouldn’t be a “Garage” teaser story, now would it? I will fill you in on some 2017 updates, mind you, a new “Teen Driver” feature allowing some parental guidance when the big ute is out of site with kids at the wheel. Safety issues in mind, low-speed forward automatic braking is now optional on lesser models and standard with the Denali, while all trims get new active front aero shutters to improve highway economy. I thought you’d never ask. The Yukon XL is five-cycle Transport Canada rated at 15.1 L/100km city and 10.4 highway with the base 5.3-litre V8 and RWD, while that engine with 4WD is good for a claimed 15.2 city and 10.8 highway. The as-tested Yukon XL Denali gets a 16.0 L/100km city and 11.7 highway rating, which is actually pretty good compared to some full-size SUV rivals.
2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali
Do you think you might fit in? You’d need to be 251-cm (8-foot-2.8-inch) tall Sultan Kösen to feel cramped, not Arnold who’s “only” 188 cm (6-foot-1.6). (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)
Other than the obvious chromed styling enhancements and larger engine, multi-speedier transmission, standard 4WD configuration, and 20-inch rims, the XL Denali gets a standard magnetic ride control suspension, heavy-duty trailering package with an integrated trailer brake controller, transmission oil cooler, HID headlights with auto high beams, fog lamps, an acoustic laminated windshield, rain-sensing wipers, power-folding side mirrors, chrome-accented assist steps, proximity-sensing access with pushbutton ignition, a unique leather-clad interior, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, heated and ventilated power-adjustable front memory seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door remote, tri-zone auto climate control, 8.0-inch customizable colour TFT driver information display, a head-up display that projects key info on the windshield, a rear parking camera, OnStar with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless phone charging, active noise cancellation, 10-speaker Bose Centerpoint Surround audio, HD and satellite radio, front and rear parking sensors, blindspot monitoring with lane change alert and lane keep assist, forward collision alert, a safety alert driver’s seat, power-folding third-row seats, a powered liftgate, and plenty more.
2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali
Cargo space? Unless you’re hauling a house you’ll probably be ok. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)
My stunning White Frost Tricoat-painted tester, an $1,195 option, was completely loaded up past the Yukon XL Denali’s reasonable $82,290 asking price, with gorgeous $3,195 22-inch six-spoke chromed “Multi-Feature Design” alloys, plus $1,920 power-retractable assist steps that neatly tuck up within the rockers to look like a nice strip of chromed trim. Additionally, a $2,900 (including a $795 option credit) Open Road package added a powered glass sunroof up front and a ceiling-mounted flip-down Blu-Ray DVD entertainment system in back, the latter with Wi-Fi wireless projection capability, a remote, four pair of two-channel wireless digital headphones, a cluster of auxiliary HDMI/MHL audio/video inputs, two rear USB ports, plus nine months of SiriusXM radio and NavTraffic service. Not so obvious but appreciated even more was $1,095 worth of adaptive cruise control with the fortunately unsung benefit of Automatic Collision Preparation, which replaced the previously noted standard Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking with full forward collision mitigation. There was more, adding $11,350 in options for a new total of $93,640 before freight and fees, but we’ll leave it there. Come back soon for experiential details from the driver’s seat, plus the good, the bad, and the… no there’s nothing ugly inside, the pros and cons of its infotainment touchscreen, switchgear quality, overall comfort levels, load-holding, load-hauling and towing specifics, and anything else I can think of adding. Until then, don’t go and buy a Sequoia…
At almost 3 tons the Yukon Denali needs all 420-hp from its 6.2L V8, but rest assured it’s plenty quick and even more luxurious. Standard kit in this $77k SUV includes an 8-speed auto, HID headlamps,…

2016 GMC Yukon Denali 4WD Road Test Review

GMC is on a bit of a roll lately. OK, that's an understatement. While last year's U.S. sales were the best in more than a decade, its Canadian numbers were better than at any time in recent memory (we could only find records going back to 2002). What's more, General Motors' truck and SUV division is by far more popular in Canada than it is in the States, at least per capita.

U.S. sales were 558,697 during calendar year 2015, while Canadians purchased 85,757 GMC models, the full-size Sierra pickup truck line by far the most popular with 53,727 deliveries, followed by the Terrain with 10,844, Savana with 6,809, Acadia with 6,452, Canyon with 4,635, and this Yukon finding 1,711 regular wheelbase buyers plus 1,579 long-wheelbase XL customers. At a glance the Yukon's sales don't look all that significant compared to some of the others in GMC's lineup, but we first need to factor in the model's combined short- and long-wheelbase totals that resulted in 3,290 units last year, and then Read Full Story