History/Overview
The GMC Yukon is an all-new replacement for 2021, a new version of the classic GMC big SUV that brings more technology and a new diesel engine (later in the year) as well as growing larger and more spacious than before. The Yukon first joined the GMC lineup in 1991 and it's now entering its fifth generation.
Available Trims
GMC is launching the Yukon with just two trim levels, SLT and Denali. The former gets a 5.3L V8 engine standard and can be had with rear or four-wheel drive. The Denali comes with a 6.2L V8 and is all-wheel drive only.
Standard Features
Yukon SLT comes with 20-inch wheels as standard along with black assist steps for climbing in and out. Deep tint glass for the rear windows is also standard as is a hands-free power tailgate with an LED projection to show where you're supposed to kick to open. LED head and taillights are standard as are automatic front wipers.
Inside, Yukon SLT has a 10.2-inch infotainment screen and an 8.0-inch digital driver information center. 12-way leather power front seats with heating and ventilation are included as is cruise control. The driver's window is express up/down, the remainder are auto-down.
For safety, automatic emergency braking is included with forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking and front and rear park assist. Hitch guidance, automatic high beams, lane change and lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic assist, and GM's OnStar connected services all come standard.
Denali adds more chrome on the outside and a special grille, along with unique 20-inch wheels. Exterior mirrors are auto-dimming. Heated second-row seats are standard as is a surround-view exterior camera view. Seat memory settings for the perforated leather chairs are standard along with a power-fold third row bench seat. The steering column is power tilt/telescope. The Denali adds hill descent control and rear pedestrian alert.
Key Options
For SLT, key packages include the panoramic power sunroof, power folding seats, and max-trailering SLT Luxury Plus package. On Denali, a Premium Package adds power-assist steps, panoramic roof, rear camera mirror, and 22-inch wheels. The Advanced Technology Package comes with adaptive cruise, enhanced emergency braking, and the rear camera mirror.
Fuel Economy
A GMC Yukon with the 5.3L and rear-drive is rated to get 14.3 L/100 km city, 11.8 highway. With 4x4, 14.8/11.8. The 6.2L version is rated for 16.8/12.4.
Competition
At this size, there aren't many other choices, but GMC does have friendly competition from the very similar Chevrolet Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade. The Ford Expedition also competes in this class, though it is larger than Yukon,
