GMC Yukon
GMC Yukon Denali
GMC Yukon Denali

2016 GMC Yukon Denali

Pros: Ample passenger and cargo space, especially in Yukon XL models; quiet interior; tractable and easy to drive for the size; 3rd-row seats now fold flat with the cargo floor as do 2nd-row seats; towing capability

Cons: Fuel economy; tight-quarters maneuverability; cramped legroom in 3rd-row seats on regular-length Yukons; jittery ride with available 20-inch wheels; high-end models get very expensive

CG Says: The 2016 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL gain a few new features after their redesign last year. The infortainment control system now has Apple CarPlay capability. The available safety package newly includes lane-departure mitigation and self-dimming headlights. A hands-free liftgate is now standard on SLT models. The Yukon shares its basic design with the Chevrolet Tahoe. The Yukon XL, which is 14 inches longer in wheelbase and 20 inches longer overall, is kin to the Chevrolet Suburban. The new body is a bit longer, lower, and wider than the previous-generation model—passenger room is increased, but cargo room is down slightly. The 3rd-row seatbacks now fold flat into the floor. Designers had to raise the cargo floor to accomplish this, which makes for a higher liftover, but also allows for some handy under-floor storage bins. The base engine in Yukons and Yukon XLs is a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower—35 more than the previous engine. The topline Denali models get a 420-hp 6.2-liter V8. New safety features include forward collision alert, lane-departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Some of the new safety features use GM’s Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates to warn the driver of potential obstructions. Interior materials are much improved over the outgoing Yukons, especially on higher-end models. Enhancing the upscale feel are new available features such as adaptive cruise control, a power-folding 3rd-row seat, and keyless entry and starting. Denali models get exclusive features such as windshield heads-up display, configurable instrument panel, and unique interior/exterior trim. The very notion of a hulking, V8-powered full-size SUV seems anachronistic to many shoppers these days, but for those who need the power, interior room, and towing capacity that only a large SUV offers, the all-new Yukons are a fine choice. Yukon Denalis are especially pricey, but they offer a luxurious feel that approaches the Cadillac Escalade.

The Facts
Class Large SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 9
Drive Wheels rear- or 4-wheel drive
Manufacturer GMC
Nation of Manufacturer USA
Base Prices 2WD SLE: $48,315
4WD SLE: $51,315
2WD SLT: $57,000
4WD SLT: $60,000
2WD Denali: $65,325
4WD Denali: $68,325
2WD XL SLE: $51,015
4WD XL SLE: $54,015
2WD XL SLT: $59,700
4WD XL SLT: $62,700
2WD XL Denali: $68,025
4WD XL Denali: $71,025

Base Engine
5.3-liter V8
Horsepower
355
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
15-16
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
22-23

Optional Engine
6.2-liter V8
Horsepower
420
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
14-15
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
20-22

GMC Yukon SLT
2016 GMC Yukon SLT
GMC Yukon XL SLT
2016 GMC Yukon XL SLT
GMC Yukon XL Denali
2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali
Share this: