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Sneak Peek: GMC Denali XT Concept |
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Monday, 04 February 2008
Written by Bruce Witwer
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General Motors reveals plans based on
the 2009 Chevrolet Camaro's Zeta platform. This rear-wheel-drive,
hybrid, sport utility truck could be the next Denali XT. The concept
Denali is set to make its arrival at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show and
is reported to feature an all new 4.9 liter flex-fuel V8, cylinder
deactivation and a dual mode hybrid system designed for full
electric drive during slow speeds.
The Holden designed chassis deviates
from the norm of SUT design with a unibody construction. This yields
a lighter and thus more fuel efficient platform than the standard
body-on-frame assembly. Because the clever Aussies designed
excellent road handling characteristics for the Zeta platform, you
can expect the Denali XT to follow suit. Key aspects include
all-independent suspension with a multilink setup in front and a
four-link rear with coil-over shocks and a decoupled stabilizer bar
all sitting underneath a 123.4 inch wheelbase.
How will the Denali XT fare as a truck?
With seating for four, the bed measurements come in at 55 inches
long. If that's still not enough, a removable "midgate"
and fold-flat rear seating allows for increased bed capacity. GMC
claims a payload and towing capacity of 1,100 pounds and 3,500
pounds, respectively.
The bottom-line expectation for the GMC
Denali XT is a four passenger, road-worthy, low emission truck with
excellent fuel economy. We look forward to seeing what comes of this
desirable concept. Stay tuned to RPM Planets for your latest concept
news.
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