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:

• 

  slice of heaven - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Adam Symons - September 2 - 2:00 am

  My previous vehicle was a 1998 Ford Explorer. I was considering three vehicles: the FX 45, the Audi Allroad and the GMC Denali. I test drove them all and settled on the Denali. The engine is excelent along with the interior finish. I never used to listen to music, however the XM radio on the Nav screen thrills me beyond end. My only disappointment is that the factory wheels on the Denali are a pedestrian 17 inches, and for a vehicle this large there should be an option to upgrade to a larger rims and wheels.

• 

  Becoming a bad experience! - 2005 GMC Yukon
  By Ice Genie - August 17 - 12:44 am

  We got our Yukon about 10 mos ago. Loved it up until the last 5000 miles. Inside of tires wearing, suspected bent frame. Dealer trying to push it off. Still trying to get resolved. Very comfortable for long trips with a family of 5. We think the cup holders could be improved upon (they did in 07s). Thinking I will have to find different SUV to replace the damaged one we have now. Check out the 4 recalls and 150 service bulletins. Not too impressive for a $50,000 vehicle.

• 

  Good looking ride - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By jaymedic44 - August 10 - 12:25 pm

  Great features. Need to address the rear cargo floor area. With the 3rd row seats removed the floor is not flat and very awkward to place groceries or other cargo on. Transmission (6 speed) is downshifting all the time.

• 

  First time SUV owner. - 1998 GMC Yukon
  By M.Campagnolo - August 9 - 11:34 pm

  I was impressed with this SUV from the start, nice handling and comfort. Acceleration is impressive for an SUV this size. On the highway it just glides along. Great handling also. I got 18 MPG using 92 octane gas and synthetic oil on a 300 mile trip this past spring, April 2006. About 2 months after buying this used truck in Jan 2006, I had the experience of driving in a bad snow storm and got to use the 4-wheel drive system, it was awesome. Total control and stability.

• 

  Had my 07 Yukon for a month now. - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Paul Lankarge - April 29 - 12:10 pm

  My last vehicle was an 03 Denali and with the price increases in gas I was happy to end the lease early to get into the SLT version of the Yukon. The new 5.3 liter engine is at least as fast as the 6.0 liter 03 Denali. I like the fact Ill be able to use E85 fuel when it gets to the Northeast, and the ability to use 4 cylinders at cruising speed is a plus. Im getting about 1 mile per gallon better now, but feel that will get better as the truck breaks in. The truck is a head turner. I got silver birch with 20" wheels with the Bridgestone tires and it looks great. I love the Navigation radio as I travel thru the bouroughs of NYC, not worring about getting lost. Its a great truck...

• 

  Long term plans have changed! - 2001 GMC Yukon
  By Eakin - April 29 - 11:10 am

  It has been a good vehicle for trips with riding comfort, low noise level, and interior room. I had an A/C problem that took a week to fix. I had planned on keeping this vehicle long term until I recently had a brake failure resulting in my crashing into the rear of another vehicle. I have been discussing this problem with GM but without results.

• 

  2006 Yukon - 2006 GMC Yukon
  By Anna - April 11 - 9:47 pm

  An upgrade from a 2001 Trailblazer, this vehicle is great. Since the overall rating of the Yukon was far better than my "guinnea pig year" Trailblazer, peace of mine was definitely a factor in our choice. Handling is very stable (no scary moments arount curves or corners) cargo space (after removing the 3rd row seating) is very spacious the choice of the "bucket style" back seat is a great feature. Although I miss the smaller Trailblazer, my comfort and peace of mind in our Yukon make up for it. No complaints, problems, or quirky nuisances for four months. Gas mileage - during the break-in period average 17 mpg now about 18 mpg (which is less than 1 mpg less than the Trailblazer).

• 

  Overall Review - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Rick Rana - February 22 - 1:10 pm

  This vehicle is very sound, but I am disapointed with the gas mileage. My 05 Yukon got better mileage.

• 

  Power at a price - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By notaconservationist - February 1 - 2:00 am

  Wow this car is comfy. Gas mileage is something to be desired. I dont know why you need AWD for highway driving - maybe they should offer a 2WD Denali.

• 

  Best Yet! - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By zemog - January 8 - 10:04 pm

  I bought my 04 Yukon brand new in 10/04 and so far it has been the best SUV we have owned. The third row seat access could be better (2nd row seat should fold all the way down rather than stepping on the back of it). It drives great in the snow and ice, so far I have only used the 4WD once this Winter (Jan 06). This SUV is a beast, I only wish it wouldnt burn so much gas and what ever happened to .99 cents per gal, $60 for a full tank and only 310 miles OUCH! I dont drive it too much, time for engine improvement. Overall is great vehile and very dependable and roomy. Kids and mom love it.