2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate Review

GMC’s truck-based Yukon SUV may have big-family appeal, but it can deliver truckloads of opulence, too.

As the name would suggest, the range-topping 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate is the way to get it all and then some. It’ll also set you back a pretty penny, with the standard version tested here starting at nearly $130,000 before options and taxes.

Styling: 9/10

Done up in fancy duds, the Yukon Denali Ultimate wears its proportions well. It looks great in photos, and is even more impressive and imposing in person. Inside, full-grain leather that’s exclusive to this top trim is a great finishing touch.

Safety: 8/10

The Yukon Denali Ultimate comes with a full suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features, including hands-free adaptive cruise control functionality. It also has an enhanced automatic emergency braking system that employs a camera plus radar sensors, while there’s a high-definition surround-view camera setup, too.

Features: 10/10

Beyond those safety systems and fancy leather upholstery, the Yukon’s top trim comes with everything from adaptive air suspension to an 18-speaker stereo, twin rear-seat entertainment displays, tri-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel and rear seats. The 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system boasts wireless AppleCarPlay and Android Auto, and subscription based Wi-Fi and satellite radio.

User-Friendliness: 7/10

Getting in and out of the Yukon will be a challenge for some, even with the running boards offering an extra step up. The same goes for accessing the cargo area, which has a tall liftover height. This is a tall vehicle, and getting into and out of underground parking garages can be a real nail-biter.

Practicality: 9/10

Thanks to the sheer size of the Yukon, all occupants (yes, even those in the third row) get plenty of head- and legroom. Moreover, there’s plenty of cargo space, too, with 722 L behind the third row alone — a number that jumps to 1,175 L in the long-wheelbase version. In-cabin storage is good, too, plus the power-sliding centre console provides hidden storage that keeps valuables out of view of passersby.

Comfort: 10/10

The Yukon is a rare find in that it comes with a comfortable third row that offers plenty of legroom. This means passengers in all three rows can enjoy longer road trips without anyone feeling like they’ve been relegated to the often-dreaded third row.

Power: 10/10

A 6.2L V8 is standard fare under the hood of this top trim, with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque to work with. There’s also an available six-cylinder diesel that generates 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both are coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers buttery smooth shifts and ample acceleration with this gas motor.

Driving Feel: 10/10

You’ll have to master the three-point turn if you ever plan to park in tight spots. Beyond those challenges, the Yukon seems to float on air, absorbing all offensive bumps and road irregularities, especially when equipped with the top trim’s adaptive air ride suspension.

Fuel Economy: 6/10

If you’re thinking a vehicle this large consumes a lot of fuel, you’re right. The V8 is thirsty, and it runs on pricey premium fuel. The diesel engine is rated at 10.5 L/100 km combined by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), while the 6.2L is good for 15.0. During this test week, the indicated average rang in at 18.3 L/100 km combined.

Value: 8/10

Although you can get into a base Yukon model for $79,899 (including $2,200 for freight), if you want the full luxury experience, you’ll want this Denali Ultimate that starts at $127,699 before freight, taxes, and extras.

The Verdict

If big, brawny, capable, and luxurious are the adjectives you like to use when describing your SUV, then the 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate could be right for you. There is an updated version on its way, but this one’s an impressive specimen that goes big on space — and luxury.