2017 GMC Yukon XL

For GMC fans for whom the Yukon is not large enough, the solution is this vehicle, the Yukon XL. As the creative trim designation suggests, this is an "extra large" take on what is otherwise GMC's largest SUV model, and is a mechanical twin to the better-known Chevrolet Suburban.

The Yukon line was redesigned in 2015, so the XL transitions to 2017 with a few updates to the standard feature list. There's a new "teen driver" feature that lets parents monitor how -- and how far -- their kids are driving. SLT models get standard heated and ventilated front seats, and an available rear-seat entertainment setup adds an HDMI connector, another USB port, digital headphones and device projection; on the safety front, low-speed forward automatic braking becomes an option, and all models get active front aero shutters to improve highway fuel economy.

GMC says the Yukon XL boasts a wheelbase 14 inches longer than the regular Yukon, stretches 20 inches longer overall and more than doubles the amount of cargo space behind the third-row seat. At this size, competitors are few: there's the Ford Expedition XL, and Toyota's Sequoia, and if you wanted to trade space for status, Audi's Q7 and the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class are big, roomy SUVs.

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 Yukon XL lineup echoes that of its smaller sibling, with SLE, SLT and Denali trims.

The range starts in the SLE model, 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.