Buyers’ tastes in large SUVs have changed over the years, and the GMC Yukon has changed with them. Introduced in the early ’90s, the full-size Yukon sport-utility has gone from being a two-door 4×4 with a maximum passenger capacity of six to a four-door SUV with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive and seating for up to nine. Early Yukons were fairly basic on the inside, but later models offer numerous amenities, particularly the leather-lined Yukon Denali model. Road manners have improved greatly over the years, as it became apparent to GMC that Yukon buyers spend most of their time on pavement.
Some things haven’t changed, though. The Yukon has always been a spacious vehicle that balances comfortable passenger accommodations with above-average cargo room. In addition, it has always used body-on-frame construction, providing it with a stout foundation for towing. A succession of strong V8s has resulted in impressive trailer ratings over the years, as well as ample acceleration in just about any situation. Now more refined than ever before, the GMC Yukon is one of the better full-size SUVs on the market for families who require a roomy, powerful vehicle that doesn’t skimp on utility.
Current GMC Yukon
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that rides on a stiff, fully boxed frame. The ride is smooth and quiet, while handling is reasonably secure for a 5,500-pound vehicle. Inside, the dash has a sleek, modern design, and materials are attractive and mostly of good quality. Numerous seating configurations can accommodate anywhere from five to nine passengers, depending on the trim level and options you select.
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that rides on a stiff, fully boxed frame. The ride is smooth and quiet, while handling is reasonably secure for a 5,500-pound vehicle. Inside, the dash has a sleek, modern design, and materials are attractive and mostly of good quality. Numerous seating configurations can accommodate anywhere from five to nine passengers, depending on the trim level and options you select.
The basic trim structure includes SLE, SLT and Denali models, though numerous package options allow for considerable variation within the lower trim levels. Yukon SLE models come with all the essentials, including tri-zone air-conditioning, a CD player and full power accessories, while the SLT should be your pick if you’re looking for extras like leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Buyers can choose either 2WD or 4WD on both the SLE and SLT, which come standard with a 320-horsepower 5.3-liter V8. The upper-crust Yukon Denali comes with a full load of amenities as well as a larger 6.2-liter V8 good for an impressive 403 hp — same as the Cadillac Escalade.
In reviews, we’ve been impressed by the Yukon’s combination of utility and comfort, especially given its humble pickup-truck underpinnings. However, its hefty curb weight takes a toll on fuel economy, acceleration, braking and handling, particularly under the burden of heavier passenger/cargo loads. Additionally, its third-row seat lacks a fold-flat feature and is difficult to remove — as such, a Toyota Sequoia or big crossover like GMC’s Acadia is better for carrying passengers. But if you need the Yukon’s outsized towing and hauling capabilities, it’s one of the best of its breed.
Source: [Edmunds]
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New for 2013
For automakers, the prospect of freshening up a successful model can be daunting. Focus on only the minutiae, and your efforts may go unnoticed by the buying public; change too much, and you risk alienating your core customer base. Considering that 2011 was the most successful sales year for the Acadia since its 2007 debut, we understand why GMC made few obvious changes in this restyle.