Overview & Reviews

Buyers' tastes in large SUVs have changed over the years, and the GMC Yukon has changed with them. Introduced in the early '90s, the full-size Yukon sport-utility has gone from being a two-door 4x4 with a maximum passenger capacity of six to a four-door SUV with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive and seating for up to nine. Early Yukons were fairly basic on the inside, but later models offer numerous amenities, particularly the leather-lined Yukon Denali model. Road manners have improved greatly over the years, as it became apparent to GMC that Yukon buyers spend most of their time on pavement.

Some things haven't changed, though. The Yukon has always been a spacious vehicle that balances comfortable passenger accommodations with rugged utility atop a truck platform. Because of this strong body-on-frame construction, it's imbued with a stout foundation that allows it to securely tow heavy loads. A succession of strong V8s has resulted in not only those impressive tow ratings, but also ample acceleration in just about any situation. Now more refined than ever before, the GMC Yukon is one of the better full-size SUVs on the market for families who require a roomy, powerful vehicle that doesn't skimp on utility.

Current GMC Yukon
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that rides on a stiff, fully boxed frame. It's been fully redesigned for 2015 and boasts attractive new styling inside and out. Other 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. Depending on the configuration, the Yukon will accommodate anywhere from six to nine passengers and tow up to 8,500 pounds.

The basic trim structure includes SLE, SLT and Denali models. Yukon 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 seats, leather upholstery 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 captain's chairs (heated and power folding).

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 Yukons 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'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 for a 5,500-pound vehicle. Inside there's a newfound upscale, modern design featuring high-quality materials. However, although we're glad the Yukon now has an integrated, fold-flat third-row seat, it consumes cargo capacity and increases loading height. As such, a Toyota Sequoia or big crossover like GMC's Acadia is better for carrying passengers and cargo. But if you need the Yukon's outsized towing and hauling capabilities, it's one of the best of its breed.

Used GMC Yukon Models
The third-generation Yukon debuted for 2007 and was produced through 2014. Compared to previous Yukons that were little more than rebadged Chevy Tahoes, this generation further differentiated itself from its Chevy cousin via more distinct styling and some brand-specific equipment. For those who wanted even more "bling" than the Yukon offered, there was always the Cadillac Escalade. Improvements in drivability, interior design, materials and build quality were hallmarks of this much-improved generation.

Trim levels originally consisted of the base but well-equipped SLE, luxurious SLT and truly sumptuous Denali. Both the SLE and SLT were split into SLE1/SLE2 and SLT1/SLT2 variants for a few years, though by 2010 they returned to the simpler three trim designations.

Initially, there was a trio of engines from which to choose. A 4.8-liter 290-hp V8 (2WD SLE) and a 5.3-liter 320-hp V8 (4WD SLE & SLT) both mated with four-speed transmissions, and the AWD-only Yukon Denali came with a 6.2-liter 380-hp V8 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. In 2008, the Denali became available with 2WD. Two years later, the 4.8-liter V8 was retired, the six-speed became standard across the lineup and the Denali's output had climbed to 403 hp.

Typically, the SLE came with 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, a cloth interior, a power driver seat, cruise control, stability control, full power accessories, dual-zone climate control and a six-speaker sound system. The midlevel SLT and its sub-model variants added things like 18-inch alloy wheels, heated leather seats, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle start, power-folding mirrors, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bose premium audio with a CD changer and rear park assist. Besides the biggest V8, the Denali's added perks included 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension, heated and cooled seats and a power-adjustable and heated steering wheel.

Notable changes took place for 2009, when a third-row seat became standard across the board and Bluetooth phone connectivity became available, as did a rearview camera system that didn't require the optional navigation system. That year also saw full-length curtain head airbags become standard, a six-speed automatic for the 5.3-liter V8 and the debut of the one-year-only XFE package that boosted fuel economy by a single mpg via aerodynamic enhancements and lightweight aluminum components. The following year the 4.8-liter V8 was dropped, all Yukons were fitted with standard front-seat side airbags and a USB port debuted for the audio systems.

Overall, we found this generation of the GMC Yukon desirable for shoppers wanting a full-size V8-powered SUV with ample towing capacity. However, car-based crossover SUVs became much more popular during this period, and they're worth consideration given the advantages in space efficiency, fuel economy, handling and ride quality. Our main criticism involved the Yukon's manually removable third-row seats. At over 50 pounds each, they're heavy and cumbersome to remove, and they must then be stowed somewhere outside the truck. Furthermore, those third-row seats are also a favorite of smash-and-grab thieves.

The second-generation GMC Yukon was sold from 2000-'06. For the Yukon Denali, it's 2001-'06, as the 2000 model year was a carryover of the previous design. This generation of the Yukon was notable for its potent V8s, cushy interior accommodations, and pleasant ride and handling dynamics. It was, in fact, one of our favorite full-size SUVs and earned an Editors' Most Wanted distinction on multiple occasions. Weak points included numb steering, low-grade interior materials and inconsistent build quality. Front-seat side airbags were available throughout this generation, while stability control was available from 2003 on up.

The first-generation GMC Yukon debuted in 1992 as a replacement for the full-size GMC Jimmy, which had been on sale since 1970. Two-door Yukons were sold from '92-'97 with four-wheel drive only. The four-door Yukon arrived to stay in 1995 and offered a choice of 2WD or 4WD; the original Denali was available in '99 and 2000 with 4WD only. If you're considering a first-gen Yukon purchase, 1996-'99 models are your best bet. The standard 5.7-liter V8 was heavily revised in '96, and the result was significantly more horsepower and torque. First-gen Denalis also had this engine. Yukons of this era were comfortable and reasonably powerful, but not especially refined. Weak brakes and cheap interior materials were the major downsides.

User Reviews:

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  My Denalli - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By gwk46 - May 20 - 11:22 am

  I purchased this 07 Denali, would have rather had a Tahoe, I think better styling. But love this Denali, fun to drive, comfortable, great turning radius. As most have mentioned could be better MPG, but for its size not bad, 16-18. But I have to bite the bullet and drive this size vehicle due to bad knees, back, ankles, so need this size and would absolutely buy another. One of best vehicles I have ever had, no problems. The vehicle and dealers service dept. are better than sales dept. Wouldnt buy from this dealer again. Great in winter in MN, now have 35,000 on it no problems.

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  Great SUV - 2008 GMC Yukon
  By Rick - May 3 - 9:52 am

  We were putting to many miles on our 2005 Cayenne S and needed a second SUV. After doing tons of research, I found the Denali to be the best value in its class. The ride and comfort are a plus, the 6.2 V8 has a lot of power, but is slow in getting there. The transmission needs improvement, it could be a little smoother. We found the Denali worked best for us on long trips, four adults can travel in sheer comfort.

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  denali - 2008 GMC Yukon
  By Ron Hatfield - May 1 - 6:33 pm

  I havearound 10000 kms on this truck. It works great and has lots of power and speed. I have a 97 yukon gt too and this has 400000 sobig fan of yukons. This one has alot more technolgy than the old one but both are great

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  Good Vehicle - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Michael - April 28 - 12:45 pm

  Very spacious and comfortable. I am surprised on how little cargo storage room there is. It has a huge center console but that is it. Gas stinks but ,hey, its a big vehicle. The interior is all plastic and the fake wood finish scratches very easily. Even most chrome accents are plastic underneath.

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  Great large SUV - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Great large SUV - April 20 - 12:56 pm

  Bought it as a lease return with 36K. 5.3L, AWD, 17" wheels. Wanted a Denali, but not the mileage. Surprisingly tight turning radius! Loaded with moonroof, Bose,DVD,etc. No surprises. Very comfortable, enough space for family, very good power. Suits me perfectly! Gets slightly better MPG than my 98 Blazer with V6. 100 more miles per tank.

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  Good in the Beginning - 2006 GMC Yukon
  By Stacy - April 2 - 1:32 pm

  I purchased my vehicle thinking total quality. Wrong. The front interior around the steering wheel, navigation screen and CD player keep peeling and chipping away. This is something I have found to happen in older models and other GMC models. Also, I owned the car less than 2 years when the transmission had to be extensively repaired. Now GM doesnt want to replace/repair the interior plastic even though it is poor craftmanship. No more GMs for me. I will stick with Ford or some other American car.

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  Great ride and looks super! - 2008 GMC Yukon
  By RWT - April 2 - 7:04 am

  I have owned GM vehicles for 15 years now and this is by far the best I have ever had. I owned mostly 2 Chevys until this one. Looked for over 5 months and compared the Tahoe, Ford and Yukon and it was not close. The Yukon just looked and felt better. I saw the Yukon on the road and it always made me stop and look. Gas is hard, but it is for everyone right now. Only complaint I have is the folding 3rd row seat. Dont know if it is just mine but it is difficult to move and almost impossible to replace is removed. Should have looked at power seats there.

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  Great Vehicle - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Peavey - March 16 - 12:34 pm

  Ive owned several Suburbans in the past as we became empty nesters I figured that I didnt need such a large vehicle. We downsized for a while, (tried a Jeep) but finally decided that we really enjoyed the larger size of the Yukons. Ive had this vehicle for a year now, put on about 13,000 miles and am rather impressed. Almost no issues the only problem Ive experienced is that the power liftgate does not function consistently when the temp drops below zero (Im in Minnesota) - but then neither do I. Fit, finish, comfort excellent - smooth vehicle for an SUV. No funny noises, except for an AC belt that occasionaly chirped until it was adjusted.

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  Autoride is amazing! - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By Chad - February 8 - 9:51 pm

  The Autoride is amazing! Black with 20" makes this a stand-out truck. Easy to operate and park in the city. Feels like your driving on glass, even on the roughest roads. GMC resales better than Ford or Tahoe.

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  Still love it! - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By LEIF - January 27 - 9:26 pm

  I bought my Yukon in 2004. It is now Jan 2008. I bought it as a primary vehicle. There are many things I like about it. 1) That third row seat is awesome. I can drive 6 people very comfortably. 2) It has great acceleration. One obviously cannot compare it to a two seater sports car but for its size, it is very quick... its a truck! 3) Take out the rear seats and my band can get a drum set, two big PA speakers, 2 half stacks, a bass rig, and amps and guitars and still have the passenger seat open for the girl! 4) One word to describe it is practical. I recently bought a lifted Ford F350 4X4 4 door with all the bells and whistles. Was gonna sell the Yukon. I will be selling the Ford.