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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  Didnt meet expectations - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By DenaliOwner - March 1 - 2:00 am

  We had problems right after we drove the car off the lot. The windshield was leaking, causing a loud noise while on the freeway, which the dealer fixed. We also have the clanging noise in the exhaust that can be heard a block away. GM is aware of the problem but not willing to fix it. After much wrestling and complaining and almost going to a lawyer, the dealership agreed to replace the muffler system at a local repair shop in order to fix the problem. We bought the extended warranty, which originally they said would NOT cover fixing the loud clanging in the exhaust.

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  Mirrors - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By rdawicki - December 25 - 10:00 am

  We have a 2003 YUKON XL DENALI. We cracked the drivers mirror glass. Just the glass was $265.00. The bad part is there filled with liquid that stains your paint work.I tried everything to remove it.

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  Lots of Repairs - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By wthtlh - December 2 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has had many major repairs for the price paid. At first, many problems with the brakes (funny noise),after warranty went out air- ride shock went out (very expensive!), air conditioner unit(very, very expensive, fuel pump along with several little things. Think this vehicle should last longer for what I paid Have 82000 miles and ready to get another vehicle, NOT GMC

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  disapointed - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By tr36 - December 1 - 2:00 am

  the denalli drives like no other. it looks stylish and draws extra attention on the road. the inside is roomy and comfortable. Quality on the other hand is a hugh disapointment driving off the lot my kids had broken both the covers for power adaptors, when i shut the drivers side door the electrical control for the windows came off the door. after looking at my sisters 35,000 dollar mini van i felt shorted both on Quality and Options

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  Lemon law should have been used - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By gravy - June 22 - 5:40 am

  This SUV has been towed three times for a faulty fuel pump. The dealership knew of an ongoing problem but would not replace the fuel pump until an in- flight recorder was used to determine that it was the fuel pump. I have had two replacements of a shaft in the front end that wasnt lubed from the factory. The right side electronics went out costing $450.00. The motor for the left driver window went out, the heater in the right side mirror went out, I have the same squeaking dashboard as others have complained about, and more. This is the second Yukon (1998 GMC Suburban) I have owned but will be the last. The first one had to have a rebuilt transmission. Major diappointment!!

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  Buyer Beware! - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By Disappointed Owner! - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I spent over $40,000 for this truck and have had MANY problems which have not been fixed. Here is a list of the problems...the fuel pump screams which it did not do when new and dealer trys to claim that it is normal, has major electrical problems which the dealers would do quick fixes that would last a month or so and then the original problems would return, The truck cuts out like it is going to die at a stop and then after a few seconds of pressing accelerator it kicks/jumps back in, both running lamps and brake lights had to be replaced, window motors went out plus much much more. Now surprise surprise, no more warranty! Buyer beware!

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  bignfun suv - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By monkeybleu - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my yukon xl to haul myself and dogs to dog shows. Not only was it great for this, but a comfortable car for local driving. It is very convenient that you can fit 4x8 sheets of plywood in the back of the vehicle with the third seat removed and the second row folded down. Love the heated leather seats in the winter. The vehicle has needed a few repairs that no preventative maintenence could have avoided. Other than the reliability issue, its a great car.

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  Transmission trouble - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By shane45 - December 11 - 11:21 pm

  I have had my 2003 yukon xl 2wd for five and a half years.I bought it used with 22000 miles on it.It now has 103000 miles. At 65000 miles the transmission went out,a $2200 repair. At 77000 miles the instrument cluster lost gauge function one by one,this is a recalled issue up to 75000miles. The dealer wanted $800 to repair it.I purchased a used repaired one on ebay for $150. At 90000 miles the transmission went out again,another $1800 for repair. The power window motor went out on passenger side,drivers side is now moving slowly,so if I do it myself $300 repair. It seats 9,handles mountian roads great,but repair costs has lost my faith in GM. Save up for repair costs,you may need it.

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  Never Again - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By riser - September 1 - 4:03 am

  Bought it brand new. 3 days after driving off the power windows failed and dealer said they already knew of the problem. 6k miles, front tires wore out, 4 sets of tires by 20k miles before warranty replaced the entire front end and steering column, 1st year - fuel pump failed, starter failed, elect system shorted - 4 sets of ball joints, 3 sets of tie rods and transmission failed within 97k miles, rear end is failing now at 202k, great gas mileage though and comfortable when its running - dealer service abysmal, 1st answer from them on tires was "that is a big vehicle and youre going to have some tire wear", warranty on transmission was GMCs own and poor - never again for GMC

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  This is one Gas-Burning Dinasour! - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By Alfredo - April 2 - 10:33 pm

  Weve owned 2 in a row. I thought the 1st one was a lemon.This truck is the reason for GM troubles! If you plan on towing a heavy trailer 100% of the time, this is one solid vehicle. The other 99.9% of the consumers, stay away from it! If you transport 7 passengers, go buy a minivan. This truck will far exceed your monthly payment in gas consumption and will make you poor. Its hard to park, and believe me, youre not bragging to anyone by driving one. People feel sorry for you at the pump! Basically, a very expensive, low quality, gas-hogging beast all around. Buttons peel off, leather seats wear out in 12k miles. This car is 100% what a European or Asian car is not. Its a $45k shame!