2022 GMC Yukon

History/Overview

The Yukon has represented GMC in the full-size SUV category since the early 1990s, when it arrived as a derivative of the Chevrolet Suburban. Part of the Yukon’s success can be attributed to its use of underpinnings and mechanical components shared with GM’s full-size pickup truck models; it also wisely uses some high-tech tricks to improve comfort and performance.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2022, all Yukon trims add lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and a digital gauge cluster as standard equipment.

Available Trims

GMC offers the Yukon in SLE, SLT, AT4 and Denali trim levels. The first three are powered by a 5.3L V8 engine and a 10-speed transmission, while Denali trades up to a 6.2L V8. SLE and SLT come with either 2WD or 4WD, while AT4 and Denali include 4WD.

All trims but AT4 can also be had with a 3.0L turbodiesel inline six-cylinder.

Standard Features

SLE trim comes with a limited slip differential, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, LED headlights/fog lights/taillights, rain-sensing wipers, and passive keyless entry.

Inside, you get power front seats, a 10.2-inch infotainment display, digital gauge cluster, a six-speaker stereo, three-zone A/C, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Yukon’s standard safety features include forward collision detection with automatic braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, front and rear park assist, following distance indicator, and automatic high beams.

SLT gains 20-inch wheels, blind spot/lane change alert, rear cross-traffic alert, hands-free tailgate, auto-dimming rearview mirror, an integrated garage remote, and wireless phone charging.

AT4 gets a magnetic ride control suspension, auto-dimming side mirrors, all-terrain tires, a trim-specific front fascia with skid plate, GMC connected services, power steering column adjustments, power-folding second-row seats, and hill descent control.

Denali’s additions include the 6.2L engine, bright roof rails, satin chrome exterior trim, a head-up display, 14-speaker audio, surround-view cameras, a power-sliding centre console, and rear pedestrian alert.

Key Options

An SLE pro safety package brings rear cross-traffic alert, lane change alert, and blind spot monitoring.

SLT offers a premium package of surround-view cameras, rear pedestrian alert, power steering column, auto-dimming driver’s side mirror, heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

AT4’s premium and premium plus packs add power side steps, head-up display, surround-view cameras, rear pedestrian alert, panoramic roof, rear-seat media system, and power side steps. Premium Plus also brings trailering equipment.

Denali can be optioned with a premium capability package of air suspension and an upgraded 4WD system. An advanced tech pack brings adaptive cruise, enhanced emergency braking, reverse automatic braking, and a digital rearview mirror. Denali’s premium pack builds on the advanced tech package with a panoramic roof, power side steps, and 22-inch wheels, and an ultimate package combines items from all those other options.

Fuel Economy

The Yukon’s diesel engine is rated for 11.2/8.7 L/100 km (city/highway) with RWD, and 11.7/9.0 L/100 km with 4WD.

The 5.3L V8’s ratings are 15.8/11.8 L/100 km (city/highway), and the 6.2L’s estimates are 16.3/12.7 L/100 km.

Competition

The GMC Yukon’s key competitors are the Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Armada. The mechanically identical Chevrolet Tahoe is also worth a look.