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 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL are redesigned for 2015, gaining new styling, more horsepower, and a host of new safety and technology features. 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.
| 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: $46,335 4WD SLE: $49,335 2WD SLT: $54,735 4WD SLT: $57,735 2WD Denali: $62,680 4WD Denali: $65,680 2WD XL SLE: $49,035 4WD XL SLE: $52,035 2WD XL SLT: $57,435 4WD XL SLT: $60,435 2WD XL Denali: $65,380 4WD XL Denali: $68,380 |
| Base Engine 5.3-liter V8 |
| Horsepower 355 |
| Std. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 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) 21 |
