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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  poor performance - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By cantonga - September 15 - 10:00 am

  car needs its third time in shop for same problem of low power or skipping engine. Replaced fuel pump twice and now feels like a lemon.

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  2016 GMC Yukon XL, - 2016 GMC Yukon XL
  By C - September 8 - 4:12 am

  This is a great vehicle. It is comfortable on long trips at least for the driver. The back seat is tight, but right now some of the kids are small. We have 8 people in our family so we got the 9 seater which gives us one extra space. Im very happy with the vehicles road noise, comfort, power, and AWD/4x4 in the winter. This would be my wish list on the next re-design though: I would love to see a "well" in the back cargo space area like in minivans. I know it cant be too deep because of the spare tire, but anything would be helpful. This would naturally increase the cargo capacity, plus things wouldnt roll out when you are on an incline (soccer balls, cantaloupes, watermelons, etc.) Perhaps they could put a faux floor that could come out or stay in depending on the needs of the owner. Also, this is crazy, and maybe Im the only one to think of this, but I would love to see sliding doors on the suburban/yukon. Its a beast to park, and if you actually have kids like we do, no one is allowed to open doors until we open them for them. If the sliders were there like on a mini van, it would be the ultimate family vehicle. I know a lot of people buy these with small families in mind so its probably not a big deal to them. And, the running boards are slippery when wet. Could it be possible to put a different coating on them? In any case, its a great car and Im glad to have it. GM, what do you think of the ideas?

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  Oil Consumption & loss of pressure - Recall - Dont Buy - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By 57mechanic - August 28 - 10:01 pm

  In a nutshell, Ill advise anyone considering purchasing a GM truck with their 5.3 liter aluminum block to stay away. GM doesnt acknowledge the consumption problem & will not rectify it. "Sorry, but until it uses a quart every 1200 miles, its considered normal." Since brand new, we religiously change oil & filter at 3,000 miles & have records to prove it. It began at 15,000 miles with "low oil level" alarm. Now.....1.5 quarts every 3,000 miles. Low oil alarm comes on anytime, anywhere but more frequent during freeway driving. Problem #2, "low oil pressure-turn off engine" oil pressure gauge goes to zero. Anytime, anywhere! What a nightmare! We are scared to leave the city with it.

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  Poor reliability - poor service - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By PDuarte - July 13 - 8:33 pm

  A few months after purchasing the SUV new started having transmission problems. Dealer was never able to diognose and fix the problems. I take it back to the dealer and sometimes they work on it but never succesfully. Also had to have both front wheel bearings replaced. I lost confidence on GMs quality of their presumably best products, the dealers ability to diagnose and repair correctly and in good faith.

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  Too many broblems and no support ! - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By fred E. - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Have A 2001 yukon xl, the suv broke down on the road,got it tow dealership,they said fuel pump problem and I had to pay for it,because warrenty ran out at 36000 miles ,after week of rental it was ready and then few days later same problem happen, got tow to difrent dealership, fuel pump related again and 3 days later and since the second time this happen,my wife did not want to go any where far with it,and finally she calls me again today that the truck leaking some in the rear and was not stoping as she was backing out the drivway, tow again this time brake line came outloose,and in pass I had called customer service and were no help

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  Typical American Car - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By traveller29 - September 17 - 7:16 am

  The Yukon XL Denali is over priced. During the first year of ownership, it was in for warranty items more than 5 times. Over the past year, fifth year of ownership and 70,000 miles later, I have spent over $2,500 on maintenance. I just spent over $900 on a faulty abs module today. You would think that if you paid over $50,000 for a vehicle that you would not have such issues at 5 years 70K.

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  Nice but not Nice Enough - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By kcool - July 8 - 2:00 am

  Traded my 01 for the 03. Was disapointed. GM took a lot of small things away to save dollars yet charge a higher price. Best part of this truck is the engine and AWD. But you pay for it in gas mileage. Average about 13.5 mpg combined. Get close to 17 mpg highway. With the back seat removed, lots of space. However the seat is cumbersome and heavy and hard to manage to get it in and out. If you leave it in it wont fold flat. For such an expensive vehicle, lacks the luxury touches that one expects. There is not much luxourious about it.

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  Whats with the interior paint? - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By J. McKeon - June 27 - 12:00 am

  Hubby surprised me with my pre-owned 03 model. Interior paint/finish on dash has an area flaking off. Weird! Went from a Caddy Seville SLS to this, so comfort and handling was important. On the comfort side, the XL is spacious and seating is pretty well, but not as many adjustments as the Caddy. Need to be able to adjust the seats lower with more tilt for shorter folks. It handles well, but almost too sensitive in the steering. I could see some major over-correction problems with even the most seasoned driver. I pull a two-horse trailer, and rate it adequate for that, due to sense of power strain and some instability even with equalizer bars

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  No Power - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By gary - March 3 - 6:13 am

  I pull a 26foot trailer and when it comes to a hill you think your in a 4 cylinder. GMC should not sell this as a tow unit.

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  now the engine... when does it end money pit - 2006 GMC Yukon XL
  By kingspark33 - March 2 - 10:53 pm

  New transmission at 54,000 ($1500.00), new harmonic balancer at 69,000 and now a complete engine overhaul at 82,000 ($2400.00).