Overview & Reviews

Known in its earlier years as the GMC Suburban, the GMC Yukon XL is actually one of the longest-running models sold in the United States. This popular SUV debuted back in 1936. After serving faithfully for many evolutionary years as a truck-based station wagon primarily meant for commercial or rural use, the renamed gentle giant has increasingly become the go-to choice for families or anyone needing class-leading passenger and cargo capacity as well as solid truck-based towing capability.

With stout underpinnings, strong powertrains, a comfortable ride and spacious seating for up to nine plus their cargo, the current truck is a very capable large SUV. A short list of competitive sport-utilities may offer more refinement and ultra-lux conveniences for more bucks, but the GMC Yukon XL (as well as its Chevy Suburban equivalent) remains easy to recommend thanks to its massive versatility. Furthermore, used vehicle shoppers with more serious towing requirements should know that, up until 2015, and unlike its few rivals, the Yukon XL was also available in a heavy-duty (2500) version.

Current GMC Yukon XL
Redesigned for 2015, the GMC Yukon XL is a longer-wheelbase version of the Yukon full-size SUV. Major updates for this fourth-generation model include increased engine output with slightly improved fuel economy, the addition of a large, multifunction touchscreen, added safety and technology features and a fold-flat third-row seat. Seating for eight is standard, but available second-row captain's chairs drop the count to seven, while a front bench seat (available only on the base model) increases it to nine.

The trim level structure includes base SLE, luxurious SLT and downright plush Denali models. Yukon XL SLE models come with all the essentials, including front and rear parking sensors, automatic tri-zone air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and OnStar, while the SLT features niceties such as keyless ignition and entry, heated and ventilated front seats and a suite of electronic driver aids such as forward collision alert, rear cross-traffic alert and lane-departure warning. The Denali's added highlights include a unique grille, a more powerful V8 engine, 20-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive suspension, a premium audio system, the navigation system and second-row heated and power-folding captain's chairs.

Under the hood of the SLE and SLT is a 5.3-liter, 355-horsepower V8. The Denali packs even more power, as it features a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp. All Yukon XLs come with a six-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels on 2WD models or all four wheels on 4WD models. Should you opt for the latter, a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing is optional on the lower trims and standard on the Denali.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Yukon XL's combination of luxury, utility and comfort, especially given its humble pickup-truck underpinnings. The ride is smooth and quiet, while handling is reasonably secure. Inside there's an upscale, modern design featuring high-quality materials. However, although we're glad the Yukon XL now has an integrated fold-flat third-row seat, it makes for a rather high loading height. As such, a Toyota Sequoia or big crossover like GMC's Acadia might better suit your cargo- and passenger carrying needs. But if you need the Yukon's outsized towing, hauling and passenger capabilities, it's as good as it gets.

Used GMC Yukon XL Models
The GMC Yukon XL that was produced from 2007 through 2014 boasted an updated chassis that provided all of the prior version's strength along with a more comfortable ride and improved handling, performance and efficiency. This Yukon XL had more slab-sided styling than the prior generation and also had more in terms of safety features, such as front seat side airbags, stability control and side curtain airbags for all three rows.

This generation of the Yukon XL came in two versions – standard 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 -- and three trim levels: well-equipped SLE, leather-lined SLT and top-dog Denali (1500 only). The 1500 versions had a 5.3-liter V8 (320 hp), while the 2500s came with a 6.0-liter V8 rated at 352 hp. The Denali trim featured a 6.2-liter V8 with 380 hp until 2010, when output climbed to 403 hp. All were mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and all offered a choice of either two- or four-wheel drive except for the Denali. The latter was equipped with an all-wheel-drive system that didn't have low-range gearing. Towing capacity of the heavy-duty 2500 version could approach 10,000 pounds.

For such a big SUV, this GMC Yukon XL is relatively quick, although a full load of passengers and gear will slow down the base V8 considerably. On the move, these Yukon XLs are composed and offer up a smooth ride. When pointed straight down an interstate or out in the wide-open spaces, there aren't many better, more capable cruisers than this GMC Yukon XL. Overall, it's a compelling and top-rated choice for used vehicle shoppers with lots of people- or gear-hauling needs.

Potential buyers should note that there were a few notable changes throughout this generation. For 2008, a six-speed automatic replaced the four-speed unit on the 2500. The following year the 1500 benefitted from the same upgrade. Front side airbags debuted for 2010, as did a standard USB port for the audio system. For 2014, the heavy-duty 2500 series was dropped from the lineup, and the SLE trim got more standard features, namely rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and power-adjustable pedals.

The previous-generation Yukon XL that debuted for the 2000 model year and lasted through 2006 was packaged more efficiently than before and heralded the debut of this model name, as this vehicle was previously called a Suburban. Although increasingly outclassed by newer competitors in its later years, this Yukon XL's warehouse-sized interior made it an easy pick for families and home remodelers who truly needed massive passenger and cargo space. Interior materials and fit and finish were merely adequate, however, and the exterior design was beginning to look a tad dated by the end of its run.

This generation was slightly shorter than its predecessor and several trim levels and a couple of modest V8s were available initially, but by 2001 the two "small-block" engines were up to 285 and 320 hp, while an available new 8.1-liter V8 with 340 hp and 455 lb-ft of stump-pulling torque offered even more grunt. The Yukon XL inched further up the comfort scale as the years went by, but the big news for '03 was the availability of an innovative Quadrasteer four-wheel-steering system on 3/4-ton (2500) models -- reducing the turning circle by a substantial 8 feet and also improving towing stability. The cabin also received numerous improvements including tri-zone climate controls and available DVD entertainment, second-row captain's chairs and power-adjustable pedals. Updates including OnStar, steering-wheel audio controls and tire-pressure monitoring carried the big GMC through 2006.

Previous to this was the Suburban from 1992-'99. After a long, enduring model run by the previous generation that extended from 1973-'91, the then-new '92 GMC Yukon XL finally adopted the sleek body design and freshened interiors of its previously updated pickup truck siblings. In addition to handsome new looks, this completely redesigned Suburban boasted more glass area and a lower step-in height than its antiquated predecessor.

After a few years of detail improvements, redesigned seats and a new modular dashboard graced the Suburban's interior in '95, and a year later daytime running lamps marked the adoption of several powerful new Vortec gasoline engines ranging up to 290 hp. For off-roaders, four-wheel-drive models adopted a modern independent front suspension and a more convenient Insta-Trac electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case. In '98, four-wheel-drive operation was enhanced again with an optional AutoTrac automatic full-time 4WD system for set-it-and-forget-it convenience.

User Reviews:

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  GMC Danali - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By chris123443 - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Well I have been buying fords for the last 10 years for quality reasons. My new wife liked GM products so I decided to take a look at the GMC Danali. Since it was her car I let her pick and that is what she wanted. After owning for several months some of the features it lacked like backup sensors, a warning system for the doors being opened, and other small items became apparent. The biggest reason is the general GM fit and finish sucks. We have had it back to the shop for stupid things like pieces falling out of the interior and rattles that come for who knows where. We are looking to trade it for a Excursion and count our losses as a learning experience.

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  Nightmare for life - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By CBR - May 8 - 12:03 am

  We bought this vehicle new trading in a great Tahoe. I have owned everything from a Rover to Benz and this has been the worst ever!!! Every part of the driveline has been replaced and it has never been offroad. The electronics are a joke. Memory seats that dont work to a radio that wont turn off. Replacement of the instrament cluster (which GM now recog. as a known issue). Steering shaft problems (known issue to GM). You name it. NEVER AGAIN!

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  Unexplained Sudden Acceleration - 2009 GMC Yukon XL
  By emzomarja - March 18 - 5:48 am

  Purchased our vehicle new in 2009. Generally satisfied with the SUV. In December 2012 the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated without explanation. The car was towed to dealer - who could not re-create the defect. The vehicle has a bulletin out on a throttle defect but claim that it is due to a loss of power rather than a sudden acceleration. The manufacturer declined to pay for the cost of analysis of the defect, in spite of the throttle bulletin indicating they will pay the cost of the repair. Have 75K mi. on car but now wrestling with keeping it due to the concern. Expected another 2 years out of the vehicle, especially at this price for car - but now may have to find another option.

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  Go to ergonomics school GMC - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By GMC latest convert - February 23 - 5:33 pm

  Great car if a 58" person with no previous back problems can stand the pain of sitting in the drivers seat form more than 20 minutes. Way to go GM, you got my 50K this time, but never again. We have a brand new Denali in the garage, and took the Eddie Bauer Expedition with 100k miles on it to the family christmas gathering cause I cant stand the pain of being in that seat. And Ive never been a Ford or a GMC guy in the past either, I am now.

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  Finally See the Light - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By Yuckon Owner - January 7 - 1:40 pm

  Longtime Honda/Toyota/Nissan car guy with 3 kids. Needed a large SUV with large cargo area and this was/is the only choice so took a chance.

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  Money pit - 2006 GMC Yukon XL
  By jmulvihill - October 30 - 7:09 pm

  Lets start by saying I bought new and right out of the dealer it was problems. 1) Front end will not stay in alignment / 4 set of new tires with now 103,000 miles. 2) Transmission is about to go but has always been hard to shift. 3) Every thing in the cabin shakes, breaks and falls apart ( trim pieces ect. ) 4) Both A/c units have failed due to some electrical part,,,$ over $ 2000.00 to fix both. 5) Water pump out at 32,000 miles, driver & pass window regulator replaced $$$. This has cost me more in repairs than my 32 foot sail boat ! GM has ZERO customer service when it come to warranty, ZERO confidence in their product but damm I love this 12.5 mpg beast. I pack 4 kids / 2 dogs and

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  "The Money Pit" - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Appendix - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Problems with electrical from the beginning. "Stabili-trac" light kept coming on. Had to replace electronics for this problem. Had it towed twice, due to the "Low Power", ended up having to replace the whole Throttle System ($250.00). Aspirator just went out, another electrical problem...they want another $157.32 for that. Rearview Mirror electronics just went, they want another $529.28 just to order the replacement mirror! Seems to be a "money pit", or I ended up with the "Lemon"!!

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  Adequate for my needs - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Rob - February 14 - 7:30 pm

  Ill preface this by 2 things. 1-Ive never owned an American car & 2-Im coming from a Lexus to a GMC. I bought the car for my wife and kids-we needed the room which is great. I like all the space and the captains chairs for car seats. The interior is nice but not great but again I bought for the space. Gas mileage stinks but I knew that going in. I like the styling. Ive been a little disappointed with the service from the dealership, but not a huge concern. Because Ive nevered owned an American car I bought the extended warranty. I bought this car off a one year lease with 27k miles on it. All in all after 4 months of ownership Im pleased with it. Handles great on the highway.

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  A Monday Yuke - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By FllRick - December 13 - 7:13 pm

  Must have been built on a Monday. Battery dead on third day. The two front wheel caps werent aligned with the wheels. Hung a coat on rear coat hook, and it pulled out of the ceiling. Check master cylinder, and check stabilitrack messages. All within first 1500 miles. Engine makes a soft rattling noise like a bearing is off, but fortunately, the GMC service person assures me GMC designs the engines to make rattling noises, so guess Ill turn up the XM radio and relax. Except for the disturbing noise that can only be heard by me, GMC has fixed everything else under warranty. Its not that its a lemon. I actually like the thing. Im just disappointed with initial quality control.

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  Beware of front differential bearings - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By mcouch - September 28 - 5:40 am

  After a defect plagued experience with a new 1996 Suburban, I was pleased with the performance/reliability of the 2001 Yukon XL Denali I traded-in for, until hitting 60,000 miles and having the front differential bearings "come apart", according to the dealer; as if that were something I shouldve expected after 60,000 miles! If you are foolish enough to buy a big GMC SUV make sure you trade it in before warranty expires!