The 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate is best evaluated as an equipment upgrade over Denali, not simply as the most expensive Sierra badge. The cabin features may be the attraction, but the base gas-engine difference also affects the price comparison.
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Engine and transmission
The base gas Ultimate uses a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft; the comparison Denali uses a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft. Canadian gas specifications.
A Canadian 2024 Ultimate listing also documents the 3.0-litre diesel with a ten-speed automatic. Both gasoline and diesel configurations should be considered when comparing vehicles. Canadian diesel Ultimate example.
Before comparing asking prices, establish which engine each truck has. A diesel example, a gas example and a truck with aftermarket changes are not equivalent just because they share the same trim badge.
Interior and technology
Ultimate’s Canadian equipment description includes full-grain leather and Paldao wood. The trim comparison adds front-seat massage and standard head-up display over Denali. 2024 interior materials; Denali equipment comparison.
The Canadian diesel example lists a 13.4-inch touchscreen, wireless phone integration and Super Cruise. Treat individual listings as build evidence for those vehicles, not proof that every advertised truck has identical equipment. Example equipment list.
Where Super Cruise is fitted, operation requires compatible roads, an attentive driver and an active supporting service plan. Verify remaining service on a used vehicle rather than assuming an original trial starts again. Super Cruise operating conditions.
Fuel economy
These are NRCan’s 2024 Sierra 4WD reference rows. They are not Ultimate-specific test results, and tire or other configuration differences can change the applicable row. Canadian fuel-consumption data.
| 2024 Sierra 4WD engine | City L/100 km | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6.2L V8 — premium gasoline | 16.0 | 12.1 | 14.3 |
| 3.0L diesel | 10.4 | 8.7 | 9.6 |
At 20,000 km annually, the combined figures represent 2,860 litres of gasoline or 1,920 litres of diesel. Compare actual fuel prices and maintenance costs before concluding how much one engine would save. These are standardized planning calculations; actual consumption varies.
Practical checks before buying
Try every seat function, camera, display and power-operated feature during an inspection. Ask which subscriptions remain active and test your own phone connection. Expensive equipment is only an advantage if it works and is useful to you.
For hauling and towing, use the specific vehicle’s payload label and trailering documentation. Account for passengers, cargo, accessories and tongue weight together. Luxury equipment does not establish a tow rating, and the largest number advertised for the Sierra range is not automatically applicable.
Canadian trim comparison
Current Canadian manufacturer pricing for these exact 2024 configurations has not been verified as of October 31, 2026. Vehicle prices and price differences are omitted; the table compares equipment only. Both rows use Crew Cab Short Box 4WD, but their base gas engines differ.
| Trim | Base specification |
|---|---|
| Denali | 5.3L V8; head-up display optional |
| Denali Ultimate | 6.2L V8; head-up display and front massage standard |
The engines differ as well as the cabin features. Match options and powertrains before deciding whether an upgraded Denali or an Ultimate is the stronger choice; no current manufacturer price difference is verified here.
Is Ultimate worth the step up?
Choose around the features you will actually use, then consider condition and service history. On a used truck, a lower asking price may reflect kilometres, previous use or missing equipment rather than a bargain on an identical specification. An independent inspection and VIN-specific recall check are worthwhile parts of that comparison.
For a 6.2-litre V8 truck, ask GM to check the VIN and repair history for Transport Canada recall 2025225. It covers certain 2024 Sierras with that engine, not the diesel configuration. Defective connecting-rod or crankshaft components can cause engine failure and loss of drive power. The remedy requires dealer inspection and any necessary engine repair or replacement; trucks that pass inspection receive higher-viscosity oil, a new filter and oil-fill cap, and an owner’s manual insert. An oil change alone is not a substitute for the recall procedure.
Frequently asked questions
Does Ultimate prove the truck has the 6.2-litre V8?
No. Diesel configurations exist; verify the build.
Is the comparison a pure trim surcharge?
No. Its base gas engines differ, as the table shows.