Large SUV; Built in USA
  • 4-door wagon
  • 4-door wagon
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $13,700 – $51,500*


2007 GMC Yukon Denali


2007 GMC Yukon


2007 GMC Yukon

Pros:
  • Cargo room
  • Quietness
  • Seat comfort
Cons:
  • Fuel economy (except Hybrid)
  • Steering/handling

GM’s 2007 redesign of its large Chevrolet and GMC SUVs addressed the most egregious flaws of their 2000-2006 predecessors: sloppy steering and subpar interior appointments. Third-row accommodations in the regular-length versions are still best suited for children. But for smooth power, utility, and surprising overall refinement, these are first-rate trucks. A carefully optioned Yukon SLE or SLT has been the best choice in the GMC lineup. Like the Tahoe, it’s a Best Buy (2007-12) value among large SUVs. Yukon’s performance and accommodations mirror those of comparably equipped Tahoes, and the Yukon XL is similar to Chevrolet’s Suburban. Yukons are promoted as an upscale alternative to Tahoe, and the Denali is positioned just below Cadillac’s Escalade. Despite more power and luxury touches, Denali fails to deliver enough of either to justify its higher prices and thirst for premium-grade fuel.

Overview

GMC redesigned its large sport-utility vehicles for 2007, giving them more power, new features, and fresh styling. Regular Yukons and the longer-wheelbase Yukon XL models shared a new platform with the 2007 Cadillac Escalade, as well as the closely related Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban. Yukon XL wagons were 14 inches longer in wheelbase than regular Yukons, measured 20 inches longer overall, and offered nearly 30 cubic feet more cargo volume. In addition to Chevrolet’s Tahoe and Suburban, GMC competed against the Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia.

Both Yukon and Yukon XL wagons came in SLE, SLT, and luxury Denali models. SLE and SLT versions offered a choice of rear-drive or four-wheel drive, which could be left engaged on dry pavement and included low-range gearing. Denali editions had specific styling and all-wheel drive, without low-range gearing.

Standard on the rear-drive SLE model was a 295-horsepower, 4.8-liter V8. A 320-hp, 5.3-liter V8 was optional on that model and standard on other Yukons. Available on the Yukon XL was a 355-hp, 6.0-liter V8. Each of these engines used a four-speed automatic transmission and incorporated GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation system. Yukon Denalis got a 380-hp V8 and six-speed automatic transmission.

Antilock braking and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors were standard. GM’s self-adjusting Autoride suspension was available on SLT models, and standard on Denalis. Curtain side airbags that covered all seating rows and included rollover deployment were standard on SLT and Denali, and optional for SLE.

Yukons seated up to nine passengers. Denalis held up to eight. In all models, the second- and third-row seats folded and the third row was removable. As in GM’s other large SUVs, a spring-release option could flip the second-row seats to provide third-row access. GM’s OnStar assistance was standard. A power liftgate, remote engine start, rear-obstacle detection, and power-adjustable pedals were standard on Denali, and available on other models.

DVD entertainment and a navigation system with rearview camera also were available.

Yearly Updates

2008 Yukon/Denali
A gasoline/electric hybrid model debuted for 2008 with a 320-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 that paired with an electric motor. Yukon Hybrids could run on either or both power sources, depending on driving demand. Under most conditions, the engine would shut off when the vehicle came to a stop. Hybrids required no plug-in charging. GMC’s optional 6.0-liter V8 for Yukon XL models gained 11 hp to 366.
2009 Yukon/Denali
The 2009 GMC Yukon lineup gained an available 6-speed automatic transmission, while the high-end Denali model’s 6.2-liter V8 gained 23 hp for a total of 403. Denali-exclusive updates for 2009 included the addition of heated and cooled front seats and a power-tilt steering column. The Hybrid’s horsepower increased to 332.
2010 Yukon/Denali
The 2010 GMC Yukon XL’s optional 6.0-liter V8 was dropped and the Denali’s 6.2-liter became optional.
2011 Yukon/Denali
The 2011 GMC Yukon is largely unchanged.
2012 Yukon/Denali
The 2012 GMC Yukon got a revised infotainment system, and some features previously reserved for high-end models trickled down to lower-line ones. Line-topping Denalis gained standard blind-spot alert.
2013 Yukon/Denali
Yukon stood pat for 2013.
2014 Yukon/Denali
SLE models gained more standard equipment for 2014. Otherwise there were few changes to Yukon before its 2015 model-year redesign.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive

Yukons and Yukon XLs have come with a variety of V8 powertrains. A 4.8-liter V8 has been standard in the Yukon SLE. Other regular-length Yukons held a standard 5.3-liter V8. A 6.0-liter V8 was optional in Yukon XLs through 2009. Denalis contain a 6.2-liter V8 that generated 380 horsepower. The 6.2-liter’s horsepower increased to 403 in 2009. The 6.2-liter became optional on Yukon XL starting in 2010. Four-speed automatic transmissions were used in all models except the Denali, which got a six-speed automatic. Denalis came with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; other models could have either rear-drive or four-wheel drive. Some versions of the 5.3-liter V8 and the Denali’s 6.2-liter V8 could run on E85 ethanol-blended fuel. The Yukon Hybrid, introduced for 2008, used a 320-hp version of the 6.0-liter V8, coupled to an electric motor. Horsepower increased to 320 the next year. Note that the Hybrid gets the same 20-mpg EPA fuel-economy estimate in both city and highway driving, a result of its gas/electric powertrain.

ohv V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.8/293
Engine HP 295
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 305
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic

14/19

ohv V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.3/325
Engine HP 320
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 340
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic

14/19

14.6

ohv V82
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.0/364
Engine HP 320-332
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 360
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic

20/20

ohv V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.0/364
Engine HP 355-366
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 365-380
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
4-speed automatic

14/17

ohv V81
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 6.2/378
Engine HP 380-403
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 417
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed automatic

12/18

14.1

1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years. 2. V8/electric

Road Test

Delivering fine power at any speed, regular-length Yukons with the 5.3-liter V8 are muscular off the line and in highway passing and merging. Response from the Yukon Hybrid’s powertrain also impresses. Despite its extra horsepower, the Denali’s 6.2-liter feels only slightly stronger. Transmissions provide crisp and timely shifts. The Denali’s automatic has shift lever buttons for manual operation. Towing capacity is 8200 pounds for regular-length models, and 8100 pounds for XL models. Hybrids behave much like their conventional siblings and can tow up to 6200 lb. The electric-to-gas transition is almost completely transparent.

A test 2WD Yukon SLE averaged 16.7 mpg, versus 14.4 to 14.8 mpg for a 4WD SLT and 13.5 to 14.4 mpg for the Yukon Denali. Note that the Denali’s 6.2-liter V8 lacks Active Fuel Management. A 4WD Yukon Hybrid averaged an excellent-for-the-class 19.5 mpg. GM recommends regular-grade fuel for the 5.3-liter and 6.0-liter V8s, premium for Denali’s 6.2-liter. Ethanol-blended fuel, called E85, can be used in later Denalis and some versions of the Yukon with the 5.3-liter V8 engine. E85 is available in most states and can be less expensive than regular-grade gasoline.

Yukons with 17-inch tires deliver car-like comfort over bumps, though they suffer some floaty motions over dips and swells. GM’s Autoride load-leveling suspension (standard on Denali) quells some float, but doesn’t add demonstrably to ride comfort. Impact harshness over sharp bumps is exaggerated by the short sidewalls of the available 20-inch tires.

Steering requires light effort, which benefits around-town maneuverability. But it can feel overassisted at highway speeds-a sensation that seems to be exaggerated slightly with the available 20-inch tires. Yukons react alertly to steering, and lack the sloppiness that plagued the 2000-2006 generation. These are tall, heavy vehicles, so never feel nimble. Still, Yukons suffer relatively little noseplow and body lean in turns-though no one will mistake these big SUVs for sport sedans. Our testers have been divided on whether models with Autoride feel any more confident in directional changes. Low-speed maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. Brakes deliver drama-free stopping power, with solid pedal feel.

For large SUVs, Yukons are impressively quiet. Road noise is well muted. The only evident wind rush comes from around the outside mirrors. Though intended as a more luxurious vehicle, the Denali’s 6.2-liter V8 sounds louder and less refined during rapid acceleration than lesser models’ 5.3 V8. Slight whines and squeals can be heard periodically from the Hybrid’s gas/electric powertrain, but they’re not bothersome and transitions between gasoline and battery power are barely noticeable. On the whole, Yukon powertrains are models of refinement.

Gauges are large, but some testers have found markings too indistinct for best legibility. Most controls are logically placed and operate with precision. The optional navigation system has a large, easy-read touch screen and absorbs, but does not complicate, audio functions. High marks go to Yukon’s upscale contemporary cabin ambience. Most interior materials feel solid to the touch and are assembled with attention to detail, though soft-touch surfaces are scarce. Denalis get additional dress-up touches.

Whether bench or bucket, Yukon front seats are supportive. Head- and legroom are ample, though the bench seat’s cramped center position should be reserved for emergency situations. Available power-adjustable pedals, if installed, are a convenience for shorter drivers. Visibility is unobstructed by headrests or roof pillars, but the body’s tall flanks block the driver’s view of small nearby objects. A rearview camera, if installed, aids aft visibility but distorts distances, compromising its usefulness.

Second-row seats are adult-comfortable. The available automatic-folding seats spring forward to ease access to the third row, though passage is still tight and seats must be manually restored to the original position. The third row is best left to children; its low-to-floor cushion forces knees-up discomfort for anyone beyond toddler size. High step-in complicates entry and exit.

With third-row seats down, the cargo area is spacious. With those seats up, there’s no abundance of storage space. Second-row seats fold forward to expand cargo volume. Folded third-row seatbacks rest well above the level of the rear load floor, complicating loading of larger items. Third-row seats unlatch easily, but are heavy and cumbersome to remove. Cabin storage is enhanced by a large center console bin.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 Yukon SLT 4WD w/Autoride, 20-in. wheels

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 6
60%
Fuel Economy - 3
30%
Ride Quality - 6
60%
Steering/Handling - 4
40%
Quietness - 7
70%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 6
60%
Room/Comfort Front - 9
90%
Room/Comfort Rear - 8
80%
Cargo Room - 10
100%

Other

Value - 9
90%

Total: 68

Specifications

4-door wagon
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
116.0 202.0 79.0 77.0
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
108.9 26.0 9
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
41.1 39.2 41.3 39.0
4-door wagon
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
130.0 222.4 79.1 76.8
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
137.4 31.5 9
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
41.1 38.5 41.3 39.5
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 Yukon 4-door wagon

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 5
100%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Coolant leak
Description: A drive belt pulley may rub a hole in the radiator vent hose resulting in a coolant leak and possible overheating. (2007)
Engine stalling
Description: Engine may not start because of excessive compression leakage past valves. (2009-13)
Oil leak
Description: An oil leak at the oil pressure sensor may cause the low oil light to come on and oil level to become low. (2006-07)
Oil pump
Description: The oil-pressure relief valve could stick resulting low or no oil pressure. (2013)
Audio system
Description: When using a portable music player (e.g. iPod) there may be noise in the car’s speakers whenever the vehicle’s power adapter is used and a ground loop isolator (from Radio Shack) is required between the device and the power outlet to prevent the noise. (2007-08)
Rear wipers
Description: The rear wiper may get damage or ripped off in automatic car washes due to the design of the wiper blade stop and a redesigned part is available. (2007)
Steering noise
Description: A clunk in the steering column that is both felt and heard on rough roads or off-road can be eliminated with an improved upper-intermediate shaft. (2000-06)
Steering problems
Description: During extremely low temperatures, the power steering could leak fluid or make noises. (2013)
Windows
Description: Power windows may be misaligned and move slowly or not at all. (2008-14)
Wipers
Description: The one-piece wiper blades may streak when driving at slow speeds because they do not press firmly enough and should be traditional, bridge style blades. (2007-08)
Battery
Description: The battery may go dead while the car is parked due to the fuel pump running with the key off due to a faulty relay. (2007)
Cupholders
Description: The console cup holders allow drinks to fall out when cornering unless the original mats were replaced with liners having ears that retain the drink. (2007)
Electrical problem
Description: Numerous electrical problems (door locks, power windows, speakers, courtesy lights etc.) may quit working because a wiring harness gets damaged by the seat belt. (2007)
None
Description: The DVD monitors in the front seat headrests may quit working because the video feed cable comes loose requiring installation of cable clamps. (2003-08)
Transmission problems
Description: There could be slippage in 4th, 5th, and 6th gear. (2011-13)
Fueling problems
Description: The fuel line may rub against the floor pan causing a buzzing or rattling sound. (2008-10)

Recall History

2007-09 vehicles equipped with a heated wiper washer fluid system
Description: A short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. This may cause other electrical features to malfunction, create an odor, or cause smoke, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse free of charge.
2009 all models
Description: The fuel system control modules may have a faulty seal, possibly allowing water to seep into the module. This could cause a short, illumination of the service engine soon lamp, setting of diagnostic trouble codes, or the engine may be hard to start. Dealers will install a new fuel system control module free of charge.
2010-13 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles with aftermarket Marathon seatcovers
Description: Aftermarket Marathon seat covers could interfere with deployment of side airbags.
2011 Yukon
Description: The rear axle cross pins were not properly heat treated and could fracture and become displaced within the rear axle. Should the pin shift out of position, it could create an interference condition and cause the rear axle to lock. The driver may not be able to maintain directional control of the vehicle and a crash could occur without warning. Dealers will install a new rear axle cross pin free of charge.
2011 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles
Description: The intermediate steering shaft attaching bolts may not have been tightened to the proper specification. This could allow the joints to separate, and the driver could experience loss of steering increasing the risk of a crash. GM dealers will inspect and ensure that the intermediate steering shaft bolts are tightened to the proper specification. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about July 13, 2011.
2011-12 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles
Description: Ignition switch may stick in Start position or may suddenly snap back to Accessory position possibly causing a loss of engine, steering, and brake power.
2012 Yukon XL
Description: The Pitman shaft of the steering system could fracture and result in loss of steering.
2013 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles
Description: The transmission-shift-cable adjuster may disengage from the shift lever. A shift lever in Park may not engage Park for the transmission. Vehicle could roll way.
2013-14 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles
Description: The chassis control module could short circuit and cause the engine to stall.
2014 Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles
Description: Rear caliper bolts might not have been adequately tightened. The loose bolts could reduce braking performance.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

Share this: