2017 GMC Yukon/Yukon XL | Consumer Guide Auto

2017 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 2017 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL gain available low-speed automatic braking. Teen Driver monitor is now standard on all models. Heated/ventilated front seats are now standard on SLT and Denali trims. Head-up instrument display becomes standard on Denali. 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: $48,530 4WD SLE: $51,530 2WD SLT: $57,315 4WD SLT: $60,315 2WD Denali: $65,965 4WD Denali: $68,965 2WD XL SLE: $51,230 4WD XL SLE: $54,230 2WD XL SLT: $60,015 4WD XL SLT: $63,015 2WD XL Denali: $68,665 4WD XL Denali: $71,665