For what it's worth..

My Z-71 is not quite as luxurious as the Denali but it's pretty close...

One major difference is the "off road " package it has that includes larger shocks , etc.

It definately doesn't drive like a truck but did real well in the 8 inches of snow we got yesterday !!!

Rob, did you weigh loosing the rebate versus the no interest deal? Most of the time its better to take rebate deal. I plan on purchasing a new truck in April to haul the 32 Sunsation I bought. Hope the deals are hot then, too. Looking at the Avalanche without the plastic crap on it.

It's 3.9% and a $2000 rebate OR 0% w no rebate, but I haven't gotten that far yet. I looked into the avalanche too, no good deals yet, and the gutter-less version is not available yet either, and I'll pass on the soft grey gutters, or overly cladded version.

A 32 huh, congrats!!!

Wannabe

It's a 5.3 285hp I have a 255hp tahoe now and It's merely adequate to tow with, which is good enough for me. You cant get the 6.0 with the z-71 package ( I dont think you can anyway), but I prefer the gas mileage of the smaller motor. I cant swing any deals for a 6.0 powerstroke excursion, plus GM interiors are so much more liveable than the ford truck inside, not that I wouldn't love one or anything, but that's my only defense right now:)

Advantage Rob - If it's a 2003 model, then my example wouldn't apply. I thought you were looking at buying a 02' while the dealer was facing the 03' model roll out.

I took a $2500 rebate and the 2.9% financing that was available back in July - August........

That was the better deal at the time !

Rob, be very careful what engine you get. The 5.3 is a complete waste of time and money and if I ever run into the jerk who designed this I will run them over (even if it was you, thats how mad I am:D ) I just dumped a 01 for a 03 Excursion Limited 7.3 so no more kick downs into drive and no more knees in the chin seating. I really like GM but they turned the Suburban into a glorified minivan. I would get the 3/4 ton unless you plan on only driving it to and from the grocery store:rolleyes: Even then watch out, more than 4 bags and you will need to put it in drive.:eek: Been riding yet? look for an OSO get together soon. Feb. sounds good.

If you plan on towing more than 3000 lbs with it, go for the 2500 with the 8.1L. You will NOT be disappointed. I love my 8.1L 2500 AV.

I have a 01 1/2 ton sub with 5.3. This truck out tows my 93 with a 454 3/4 ton an day. I changed exhasut and aircleaner and it tows fine. My boat and trailer only weigh 7000lbs though. Up grades 65-70 mph no problem. Next time I'lll get the 6.0 and a larger boat.