From a 2015 to a 2016-2017 Denali Xl ??

seamus2154 · February 18, 2017

Hey guys,

As it says I have a 2015 Denali XL w/ several options. I am willing to lose the retractable steps but would love to keep adaptive cruise. Sat in a 2017 today and noticed the seats are very improved and softer. The 15 seats are harder and a big complaint of mine. I am considering moving into one of the last 2016's because of pricing or a 2017 if I can get my deal. I have a couple of warranty issues and am not looking forward to the game. Clunking steering column, clicking seat, trans clunking, slipping and delayed engagement issue. ( they said taking apart trans is fix) They were willing to give me 50K on my trade but having a hard time on a 17 with the price. Has anyone gone from the 15 to a 16 or 17 and feel it was very much worth it. I will be going up about 140 dollars a month for pretty much the same truck but new and 0 miles. My truck has one advantage, no booming issues or vibration issues. Kinda concerned I could get myself into worse trouble. Is the ride any softer on the 17? When did the seats improve are the 16's softer also? Thanks

shewstring · February 19, 2017

Hey Jim,

I did a similar move from a 2015 Tahoe LTZ to a 2017 Yukon Denali. The 2017 Denali definitely has the softer seats than the 2015 as well as a more compliant ride. They are using the same Bridgestone tires (on 22"). Neither of these had the boom/buffeting plague. I don't know if the 2017 Chevy LTZ has the softer seats/ride as I didn't drive one. A GMC Yukon Denali priced out cheaper than the LTZ?? I felt my LTZ rode like a lumber wagon...took it a few times to have them see if there was any update available to soften the MRC. Obviously, GM listened, because the 2017 is dramatically different.

seamus2154 · February 20, 2017

Thank you very much for the reply!! It is pretty hard to justify getting the same truck but it is a luxury truck and those couple of things are huge issues. I immediately noticed the difference in the seats when I sat in a 2017 and it lit me up. Everyone I know with this truck says it rides too hard, including me! But I didn't ask for a test ride as we weren't hitting the number at that point. I have been through the tire and vibration issues on 3 trucks in this new platform. I am well versed in it and it is the tires because Michelin Defenders solve the issue in a BIG way. My new chrome snowflakes w/ Michelin's will not be on for the trade as they will go on the new ride. Now I am really motivated to experience the ride and make a 2017 happen. Yes, I have seen LTZ's at Denali prices but for me, the 6.2 is a BIG must have! I actually get better mileage with my 6.2 that my last 2 5.3's. I couldn't believe it but it is so, and it tows great w/ the 8 speed. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and has motivated me. Thank you.

seamus2154 · March 15, 2017

Well I ordered a truck and it's in production this week. Pretty concerned about the buffeting, booming issues some have. My Denali has none and no vibrations. So a long test drive will be important. Sat in a '17 today and there is no doubt the seats are much more comfortable and softer. Big gamble they will do the deal once it gets here but I can stay in my truck if I have to. I will weigh doing Katskin seat covers up front and new springs and shocks up front against the deal. Those are my two big complaints along with a confused trans that is being dealt with presently at dealer. Anyone else that can comment on the ride of the '17??? I actually asked the dealer to check that my mag shocks are working properly. Ride is harsh.

seamus2154 · March 22, 2017

Drove the 2017 Denali XL today. Seats are more comfortable and the ride is very improved. Trans shifted great and there is apple car play. Those are the advantages from a 15 to a 17 as best I can see. My build is in Texas on it's way to Fla. Hope the deal works because it did ride very nice.