GMC Denali XT

04th February 2008

The all-American pick-up has been given a hi-tech makover, and an Australian accent! Called the Dinali XT, it's set to be the star of next week's Chicago Motor Show.

Despite being aimed squarely at the American market, this rugged-looking concept was actually designed and developed Down Under by GM's Holden Division.

There's no doubting the Denali's extrovert target audience, as it gets an aggressive-looking grille, distinctive LED headlamps and brash 23-inch alloy wheels. Look down the flanks and you'll spot the bulging wheel arches and aluminium 'gills' in the front wings.

Inside, there's a spacious and luxuriously appointed cabin. The four-door 'crewman' cab comfortably seats five, while leather and aluminium are used extensively for the chairs and dashboard.

However, the big news lurks underneath the imposing exterior. In an effort to get away from the gas-guzzling image of pick-ups, engineers have fitted the XT with a hybrid drivetrain. Using an electric motor and a direct injection 4.9-litre V8 with running on bio-ethanol, the Denali produces 326bhp and returns 32mpg.

Although no production plans have been revealed, the Denali does use the same platform as the forthcoming Pontiac G8 saloon. Expect to see a production version by the end of the decade.