Analysis: 2025 GMC Sierra EV Denali excels in versatility
“I know that path well, and it’s not typically suited for a large truck, especially not one that tips the scales at almost 9,000 pounds.”
I remarked with a hint of skepticism to my co-driver as we were introduced to a 2025 GMC Sierra EV. We then embarked on a drive through the confined Redwood highways in the Bay Area and various segments of Skyline Boulevard.
Recollections of the roads were accurate; the path featured some rolling stretches of asphalt along ridges that I had once relished driving in a small Volkswagen GTI many years ago. However, I did not fully appreciate the capabilities of the Sierra EV.
Measuring approximately 233 inches in length and 84 inches in width, excluding mirrors, the large electric truck handled narrow roads with surprising ease. This was largely due to the rear-wheel steering system, which allowed the rear wheels to turn slightly in the opposite direction of the front wheels during tight, low-speed turns. The Sierra EV’s dual motors provided immediate torque, ensuring we maintained our pace on uphill climbs, while the air suspension contributed to a stable ride. On steep descents, the robust regenerative braking system, available in Normal and High settings, effectively controlled our speed.
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali Edition
I began the day fully aware of the ambitious 460-mile range claim of this truck and its impressive acceleration capabilities—I already knew it could silently reach 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds or possibly even faster. However, GMC guided us along a route I would not have picked myself, filled with numerous curves, some towing scenarios, off-road adventures showcasing the incredible maneuverability with rear-wheel steering and detailed camera views, and a demonstration of the CrabWalk mode, which aligns the rear wheels with the front. We were also tasked with the challenge of quickly loading the Sierra EV with a significant amount of outdoor gear.
As the day concluded, I felt educated. GMC has not opted for an unusual design (like the Cybertruck), targeted the adventurous lifestyle segment (like the R1T), or just created an electric variant of its most popular truck (like the F-150 Lightning).
The GMC Sierra EV is positioned alongside the GMC Hummer EV within GMC’s range of vehicles. The company distinguishes between them by branding the Hummer EV pickup as the “it” truck, while the Sierra EV is dubbed the “do it” truck. In terms of market impact, the Sierra EV stands out as a remarkable achievement. For those seeking exceptional cargo flexibility for transporting large items, along with maximum range for towing, hauling, and other traditional truck tasks, the Sierra EV is the go-to option.
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali
GMC Sierra EV Denali 2025 Edition
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali Edition
2025 GMC Sierra EV: Impressive Range for a Versatile Truck
The 2025 GMC Sierra EV boasts some of the top range figures in the industry, not due to its efficiency, but because it offers large battery packs. These packs are dual-layered and can be connected in series for 800-volt DC fast-charging capabilities. The Max Range version, with a 205 kWh battery, delivers an estimated range of 460 miles, while the Extended Range version, featuring a 170 kWh battery, provides 390 miles. The range for the Max Range model is based on GM estimates, as its substantial battery size places the Sierra EV in a medium-weight class that is not covered by EPA ratings.
During a drive that spanned close to 90 miles and included both street and highway conditions, the Sierra EV’s trip computer indicated an efficiency of 1.9 miles per kWh. This suggests that under these driving circumstances, a range of 390 miles or more could be achievable.
The massive battery expands potential uses. With the Extended Range package, the Sierra EV is capable of towing up to 10,500 pounds, and with the Max Range package, it can tow 10,000 pounds. Although towing may reduce the vehicle’s range by half, this isn’t a major concern in this context.
Upcoming 2025 Electric GMC Sierra Denali
2024 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali First Edition
Denali Edition 1 of the 2024 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle
The Sierra EV handles towing tasks with ease, providing ample room for equipment. During a brief test run with a trailer weighing 5,500 pounds, the Sierra EV appeared largely unaffected by the weight, maintaining acceleration that surpasses that of a fully loaded minivan. In a loop that included two instances of full acceleration, the vehicle achieved an average of 1.0 miles per kilowatt-hour, as recorded by the trip computer. This suggests that the vehicle can still achieve a range of 200 miles even when towing a horse trailer or a large boat.
The Max Range models, similar to the one I tested, offer a powerful output of up to 760 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque. This performance is achieved through the use of two permanent magnet motors, both engineered and manufactured by GM. On the other hand, the Extended Range models feature nearly identical components, except for the battery pack, and produce 645 horsepower while maintaining the same torque of 785 pound-feet.
2025 Denali Edition of the GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle
The impressive power figures and the 4.5-second acceleration time for the Max version are achievable solely when the vehicle is in Max Power mode. The Sierra EV is also equipped with several other driving modes, including Normal-Tour, Off-Road, Tow-Haul, and a customizable option. However, GM has not disclosed the peak power output for any of these additional modes.
The Sierra EV features a front trunk, known as the eTrunk, offering 11.0 cubic feet of storage space. This area includes amenities such as a cupholder, a drain, and weatherproofing. However, the standout feature for cargo flexibility is the Midgate. Within minutes, the rear seat area can be transformed to extend the cargo bed, providing a space that is 9 feet 1 inch long with the tailgate closed. If the tailgate is lowered and the flip-down tailgate load step is utilized, the space extends to 10 feet 10 inches, accommodating longer items like a kayak.
The engineers highlighted that the Midgate is designed for regular use, not just for occasional situations. Although it doesn’t offer full weather protection, it’s an excellent option for transporting equipment short distances to a launch site without needing special carriers. Additionally, one of the rear seats can remain usable while utilizing the Midgate.
GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali Model for 2025
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali Model
The Sierra EV Denali comes with a high price tag, yet it boasts an impressive array of features. Though the GMC Sierra shares a strong resemblance with the Chevrolet Silverado EV RST, it distinguishes itself in the electric vehicle and truck sectors through certain key aspects. In the year 2024, the Sierra EV was made available exclusively in its premium Denali version, which includes a comprehensive package: the largest battery available, air suspension, rear-wheel steering, and one of the most luxurious feature sets found in full-size pickup trucks.
Looking ahead to 2025, there are modest tweaks in pricing, the introduction of an Extended Range model, and an extra 20 miles added to the Max Range model, thanks to enhancements in motor efficiency. I spent the day with the premium Sierra EV Denali model, featuring the Max Range setup, which starts at a minimum of $100,495. This price includes a $2,095 destination fee but excludes any extra options for towing and storage.
The Sierra EV Denali is equipped with an air suspension system, rear-wheel steering capabilities, and features such as a panoramic sunroof. It boasts front seats with heating and cooling options, leather seating, a steering wheel that is also heated, and heated seats for passengers on the outer side. Additional amenities include a head-up display, compatibility with Wi-Fi hotspots, and a premium seven-speaker audio system from Bose. The vehicle also offers wireless charging seamlessly built into a sliding tray in the center console, along with numerous USB-C ports and a 120-volt AC outlet in the cabin. Furthermore, it comes with a 7.2-kilowatt AC Offboarding Power station, which could potentially replace the need for a small generator at a campsite or work location.
During this short test drive, I wasn’t able to charge the Sierra EV. According to the specifications, the Max Range battery pack can fast-charge at a peak rate of 350 kW, while the Extended Range pack can charge at 300 kW. General Motors claims that using a 350-kW CCS connector can add up to 100 miles of range in only 10 minutes. They’ve also previously mentioned that both battery packs can charge from 10% to 80% in roughly 40 minutes. To reach these peak charging speeds, GMC has included a battery preconditioning feature, which can be activated through the vehicle’s navigation system or by pressing a virtual button.
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Featuring GM Energy Package
Prepared to support your household but not compatible with Apple CarPlay, the Sierra EV offers the ability to deliver 10.2 kW of AC power, which might make carrying a generator unnecessary. Beginning with the $1,699 PowerShift charger, homeowners can equip their residence with General Motors energy systems, allowing the Sierra EV to assist in providing backup power to the home, including the PowerBank home energy storage system.
The GMC Sierra EV Denali and the Chevrolet Silverado EV have many similarities, but one major distinction inside the cabin is the Sierra EV’s 16.8-inch display, which is oriented vertically, unlike the horizontal layout in the Chevy. This system, similar to those in the Silverado EV and other new GM electric vehicles, incorporates Google built-in, allowing it to operate Google-related apps. However, it does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
GMC Sierra EV Denali, model year 2025
General Motors’ Super Cruise is available for three years in the Sierra EV, enabling drivers to operate the vehicle hands-free and make semi-automated lane changes on over 750,000 miles of mapped roads and highways, provided they remain attentive. The system is now also functional while towing. When I tested it with a 5,500-pound trailer, it maintained a steady lane position and controlled speed effectively using regenerative braking. However, it’s not entirely foolproof or completely dependable; during a drive on US-101 near Palo Alto, the system frequently switched off because it struggled to detect the faint and inconsistent lane markings, which were clearly visible to us.
GMC has successfully created a spacious environment for tall individuals both in the front and back seats, providing ample headspace and excellent visibility. The seats, both in the front and rear, are comfortable and offer good support.
The interior of the cabin is exceptionally quiet, thanks to a trio of features: an active noise-cancellation system integrated with the Bose audio setup, extra soundproofing beneath the vehicle in contrast to other GMC models, and the use of acoustic side glass. Together, these elements create the atmosphere of a luxury car.
The atmosphere remains consistent in this Denali model, featuring intricate stitching on the front perforated seats, uniquely designed speaker grilles, laser-etched wood accents, and a precise overall assembly. It remains to be seen if these high standards will be maintained in the more affordable models that will follow.
2025 GMC Sierra Electric Vehicle Denali Edition
GMC is planning to introduce more budget-friendly versions of its Sierra EV, specifically the AT4 and Elevation models, expected in 2025. However, it remains unclear if these will be part of the 2025 or 2026 lineup. Additionally, GM has not provided any new information on when it will increase production at its Lake Orion plant in Michigan. This facility stopped manufacturing the Bolt EV almost a year ago, and until production ramps up, the availability of these trucks will remain limited.
However, one can easily imagine a more fully equipped Sierra EV featuring magnetic ride control, designed to reduce the intense, thrill-ride sensation experienced during quick acceleration over rough roads. These enhancements might be what takes this platform to the next level for the soon-to-be-released Cadillac Escalade IQ.
General Motors has dispelled numerous assumptions, including those I held, by demonstrating its capability to produce an impressive electric truck. The next step for the company is to increase its production.
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