GMC's big Yukon SUV moves into 2017 with minor changes following a full redesign in 2015.
New stuff includes a "teen driver" feature that lets parents monitor the vehicle's maximum speed, distance driven and whether any active safety features were activated.
SLT trim gains standard perforated leather-trimmed front seats with heat and ventilation functions; an available rear-seat entertainment system adds an HDMI connector, an extra USB port, digital headphones and device projection; low-speed forward automatic braking becomes an option; front active aero shutters enhance highway fuel economy; dashboard backlighting goes icy blue; and GMC's IntelliLink infotainment system gets shop and rear seat reminder customization.
Beyond that, this is the same big, comfortable eight-seater SUV it was before. Its primary competition is from Ford's Expedition, but it also curiously goes up against GM sister brand Chevrolet's Tahoe, which differs only in styling and small trim distinctions. In higher-end trims, you might cross-shop the Yukon against vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class and Audi Q7, but we think that's a bit of a stretch.
In most trims, power is from a 5.3L V8 cranking out 355 hp ad 383 lb-ft of torque, routed through a six-speed automatic transmission to a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. A top-trim Denali model switches that powertrain out for a 6.2L V8 making 420 hp and 460 lb-ft and mated to an eight-speed automatic and standard 4WD.
Fuel consumption ratings are 15.1/10.4 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 5.3L engine and RWD, and 15.2/10.8 with 4WD. Denali models are rated 16.0/11.7 L/100 km.
The lineup starts with the SLE trim, with a locking rear differential, 18-inch wheels, trailer hitch and trailer wiring, fog lights, rain-sensing front wipers, heated side mirrors, 4.2-inch driver information centre, eight-inch IntelliLink infotainment screen, leather-trimmed steering wheel with manual tilt steering column, 110-volt power outlet, remote engine start, cloth seats, satellite radio, three-zone automatic climate control, front and rear park assist, Bose premium stereo and a backup camera.
SLT models add passive keyless entry with push-button engine start, forward collision alert, lane keep assist, automatic high beams, safety alert driver's seat, wireless smartphone charging, power liftgate, power-folding side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, front bucket seats, heated steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, heated and cooled front seats, power release second-row seats, power-folding third row, garage door opener, power tilt-and-telescopic steering and rear cross traffic alert.
Finally, Denali trim brings a heavy-duty trailering package, integrated trailer brake controller, transmission oil cooler, magnetic ride control suspension, 20-inch wheels, HID headlights, eight-inch customizable driver information display and active noise cancellation.
