The GMC Yukon comes in four basic configurations: Yukon, Yukon XL, Yukon Denali and Yukon Denali XL. XL versions of the Yukon come with a longer wheelbase and more interior room, while Denali versions are packed full of luxury. Two engines power the Yukon: A 5.3L V8 with 355 horsepower supplies power to Yukon and Yukon XL models, while a 6.2L V8 with 420 horsepower provides thrust for Denali and Denali XL versions. GMC claims that the engines should provide best-in-class fuel economy, with even the Denali XL achieving 21 mpg on the highway.
Within the Yukon and Yukon XL models are two trims -- SLE and SLT. SLE versions are more basic but still include plenty of amenities. Highlights on the SLE include a rear vision camera, hands-free liftgate, front and rear park assist, an IntelliLink infotainment system with Apple Car Play and 8-inch color touchscreen, rain-sensing wipers, a Bose premium sound system, remote vehicle start, keyless entry and a navigation system. SLT versions include leather seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, power-folding third row seats, a heated leather steering wheel, power adjustments to the steering column and pedals, and a blind-spot warning system.
The Yukon Denali and Denali XL come in just a single, all-encompassing trim level. The Denali comes with most of the luxury features that appear with the SLT trim, thought the Denali also includes a better sound system with active noise cancellation technology and magnetic ride control shock absorbers. The Denali also gets plenty of unique styling pieces on both the interior and exterior, helping to distinguish it from its less expensive sibling. Generally speaking, interior trim pieces are nicer, softer and more expensive feeling, while the exterior benefits from unique headlights, a unique grill and plenty of Denali badging.
Options on the Yukon are numerous. A variety of 22- and 20-inch wheels are available, allowing buyers to customize the exterior looks of the vehicle to their taste. Interiors can also be customized and one of the more popular options on the Yukon is a very nice rear seat entertainment system that includes a Blu-ray player. Electronic systems such as adaptive cruise control or a heads up display are also available, as is a panoramic sunroof.
Safety systems on the 2017 Yukon are state of the art. Electronic aids such as anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability all come standard. Optional blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assist also aid road safety. All Yukons also come with a 6-month subscription to GM's OnStar service.
Spacious Interior
Three Rows Of Seating
Rugged Truck-based Chassis
Luxurious Interior Appointments Available
One of the few changes to the Yukon in 2018 was to the Denali which gets a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Otherwise the Yukon remains relatively unchanged aside from minor updates to the appearance and contents in the options packages.
The GMC Yukon exists primarily as a people carrier, albeit a much more rugged one than any of the minivans that occupy the road. With three rows of seating, powerful engines and a truck-based chassis with good ground clearance, the Yukon excels at taking anyone anywhere. Its secondary mission is one of luxury, the Yukon can be outfitted with enough options to do a credible impersonation of a limousine if need be. Everything from sumptuous leather to state of the art rear-seat entertainment systems can be had on the GMC Yukon. Prices start at around $48,500.
