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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  Great Superb Vehicle - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By kjc - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Drives unbelievably well. Votrec has tons of power. Very, very comfortable to drive long distances. Did a 640 mile trip in one day and could have done another 150-200 with major fatigue.

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  Great Yukon in Wisconsin - 2008 GMC Yukon XL
  By W is for Wisconsin - October 16 - 2:33 pm

  We ordered our SLT 4SB equipped Yukon XL with enough extras to satisfy everyone in our family. The DVD player will keep the backseat occupants entertained and the Navigation with the Points of Interest will keep us informed. The backup camera is a must, even though it is tied to the navigation and DVD player. The ride quality started with a 160 mile trek home after signing the papers. The Yukon was baptized with heavy snow and freezing mist and performed remarkably. The 5.3 engine is strong when passing and efficient. I am averaging 18mpg on the Hwy. That was with 6 aboard, the DVD playing, and all 4 heated seats going. My wife really likes it too. I hope I get to drive it again.

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  WOW! What a truck! - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By kidq - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Only had this truck one week. Got the Yukon XL SLT model seats eight. We tried out 5 other gmc/chevys and learned quite a lot. 1) You cant get the Bose stereo in 9 passenger. You need the Bose. The stock stereo is tinny and cant be adjusted to sound good at all. The rear audio/hvac controls work great for the kids. Once seated in the back row, a 6 footer can sit comfortably. The XM satelite radio gets 120 channels plus including disney,sports, country, and a few rock stations. The leather is nice & all the seats are comfortable. Power with the 5.3 is good, mileage has been about 15 so far. Best news? $10k off the sticker!

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  End of Model Year has the best financing - 2002 GMC Yukon XL
  By KB180 - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Wish mine had the sunroof, but what sold me was the Zero Down, Zero Interest for 60 Months, and no payments for 90 days (2002 Yukon Models)...you cant beat that! Too bad GMC wasnt offering the same deal on 2003s, or I would have bought one of those instead. This model is rated at 12 city/15 hwy, so dont expect to save any money on your next fill up. Fortunately for me, I dont put a lot of miles on annually, so this was not a factor for me. Visibility is also excellent on this vehicle. Handling is supurb, unlike any large SUV Ive driven before (had a Jeep Grand Cherokee LTD previously).

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  BEST SUV ON THE MARKET - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Dave - August 20 - 2:00 am

  IN SURBERBA LAND THIS IS THE BEST FULL SIZE SUV ON THE MARKET. ITS POWERFUL, QUICK, COMFORTABLE AND GOOD LOOKING.

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  BEST SUV ON THE MARKET - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By DAVE - August 20 - 2:00 am

  IN SURBERBA LAND THIS IS THE BEST FULL SIZE SUV ON THE MARKET. ITS POWERFUL, QUICK, COMFORTABLE AND GOOD LOOKING.

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  Denali is tops! - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By Mike, Cheryl&Garrett - May 18 - 2:43 pm

  Overall the ride is great. The tire monitor wasnt working at purchase (warranty issue). The nav system is excellent. Stock DVD player is not as current/fancy for what you can buy aftermarket given the same price. The front door required more force to close (warranty issue). The Denali has a leather interior with the exception of the 3rd row seat. My 2000 Yukon XL had leather 3rd row seat, but the 2005 Denali is now vinyl. 05 Denali no longer comes with protection stip on the roof. Front grille should be metallic versus chrome-over-plastic. Last 00 Yukon XL was in a 70+ mph head on collision with 4dr Honda. We are survivors. The Yukon XL is a life saver.

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  Luv my new XL - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By LuvmyXL - May 17 - 10:00 am

  I have been extremely pleased with my Yukon XL. It handles and rides so comfortably. I strongly recommend the second row captains chairs. It really makes it easier to access the third row of seats. I love the cargo room!. We actually hauled our wooded swingset boxes (they were huge!!) home with both seats folded down. So much fun to drive!!

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  Buy One! - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By Joeqc - May 17 - 10:00 am

  I bought this used 2000 Yukon XL after researching for a Suburban/Excursion for a better part of a year. Anyways, the vehicle is outstanding, even as a used unit. The 5.3 really pulls in the mid range,and the mileage is about 13.3 in town, and I got 17, and 17.5 highway driving 70-75, with the air on!,,,also the kids love the view from it and size.

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  2500 Yukon XL - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By kinggr - May 13 - 10:06 am

  Excellent vehicle for hauling whatever you need. Gas mileage isnt that great, but the utility is excellent, and the Quadrasteer option is amazing.