2009 GMC Envoy Denali

The main difference between the Denali and the run-of-the-mill Envoy is the engine. The Denali gives up the straight-six for a good old V8, displacing 5.3 liters. It makes a nice, even 300 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 321 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm and has a feature called Active Fuel Management which allows it to shut down half of its cylinders under light-load conditions. Still, the EPA estimates its fuel economy at 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for the two-wheel drive model, and 13 / 19 mpg, respectively, for the 4x4. Maximum towing ability is 6,600 lbs, when properly equipped, with the 2WD model and 3.73:1 rear axle. The like-equipped 4x4 model tows 100 lbs less.

There is just one trim, 5SA, after buyers choose a 2WD or 4WD drivetrain. The Denali is otherwise well-equipped, with goodies such as dual-zone automatic climate control, premium Bose AM/FM/CD audio system, overhead custom console, driver information center, bright honeycomb grille, washers for the headlamps, a roof-mounted luggage rack, memory package for power seats and mirrors, heavy-duty locking rear differential, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with 8-point compass display, power adjustable heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, power-adjustable pedals, rear-seat audio system controls, front heated, 8-way power bucket seats with leather seating surfaces and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood trim and audio and driver information center controls.

A rear load-leveling suspension, including an air compressor and inflation kit, is also included as standard equipment. A theft-deterrent alarm system and a universal home remote are likewise standard. The wheels are 18-inch, 6-spoke highly polished aluminum pieces.

Options on the Envoy Denali include a Sound and Sun Package, that's comprised of a 6-disc CD sound system upgrade and a power sunroof. Either can be optioned individually, but the package saves some money. The tech-savvy buyers might want to spring for the audio / touch-screen navigation combo instead.

Finally, a rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player, drop-down screen and headphones keeps the kids quiet on long drives.