A bit more of a rugged attitude results from the addition of the on-demand 4WD system to the 2008 GMC Envoy Denali 4WD. With three settings (rear-wheel, high, and low-range), the mid-sized SUV can be taken off-road, and is helped by a locking rear differential. An automatic load-leveling rear suspension smooths out the drive. Large 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires add to the performance, and a more powerful 300-hp, 5.3-liter V8 gets 321 ft-lbs of torque at 4000 RPM. It is matched with a 4-speed automatic. This engine can tow up to 6500 pounds.
But with only eight inches of ground clearance, the 2008 Envoy Denali 4WD focuses much more on family comfort. It seats four, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Backseat passengers get audio controls, a power outlet, and cupholders. Up front, there are 8-way power front seats (including power lumbar) with driver's memory, leather upholstery, heated seats, cruise control, wheel-mounted audio controls for the CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, a trip computer, remote entry, a garage opener, and full power features. Intermittent front and rear wipers, tilt steering, heated mirrors, a security system, and power liftgate are also standard. The 43.7 cubic foot cargo area comes with tie-downs, a net, and a retractable cover. It expands to 80 cubic feet, with a standard roof rack adding more storage.
On the safety front, you get 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, dual front and side curtain airbags (both rows), traction and stability control, side impact beams, OnStar, and a tire monitor and inflator. Nighttime help comes in the form of automatic headlights with lamp washers, halogen lamps, foglights, cornering lights, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Options are few in the well-equipped 2008 Envoy Denali 4WD, but include a sunroof, 6-CD changer, DVD player, navigation system, and side step rails.
