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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  Great Vehicle - 1997 GMC Yukon
  By NGB - January 13 - 1:58 pm

  I purchased this vehicle new. It has been extremely reliable and is very sound mechanically. The truck has 129,000 miles currently and has not given a minute of trouble. I highly recommend these vehicles for anyone needing a four wheel drive and for anyone needing to haul or move things. We have used this vehicle to move our daughter back and forth to college for four years and into and out of her condo. I cannot say enough good about my Yukon. I love it!!

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  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.

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  Overall Good Vehicle - 2001 GMC Yukon
  By Robert - January 5 - 11:27 pm

  We bought this car when it was a year old. It had 30,000 miles. It was great up until about a month ago. at 90,000 miles the water pump went($600) then the heater went out($300) And then after having all this repaired and EGR Valve went out. The dealer told us it wasnt under warranty and it would cost $1200 to fix. I expect some wear and tear on the vehicle. So overall its been great.

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  Comfort at a cost - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By S. Virgilio - January 2 - 5:48 pm

  Purchased with 30,000+ miles on it, by 120,00 it was toast. Comfortable and roomy interior, great sound system and dash design. Travels well on highway. Disappointed with performance. Rear drum brakes went a week after purchase engine ruined due to gasket/coolant problems even though scrupulously maintained. Weve gotten well over 180,000 on our other vehicles. Last GMC big rig Ill buy.

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  Junk - 2005 GMC Yukon
  By Patrick - January 1 - 6:35 pm

  Take a peek inside a GMC Yukon, and youll see one of the worst constructed interiors of any vehicle on the market. The plastics are of horrible quality, the trim is illfitting, the wood is incredibly fake which doesnt look kindly on a $50,000 vehicle, and the controls are shared with such vehicles as the Chevy Cavalier. What has GM come to when it cannot even design an interior correctly? Nevermind the hideous, bulbous exterior and the abysmal fuel economy, I mean, its not as if global warming is getting worse and worse, lets just go and buy a vehicle that gets 13 mpg. Oh yeah and its crap to drive too.

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  Denali king of the road - 2006 GMC Yukon
  By PMM - December 31 - 7:01 pm

  After growing out of a BMX X5 the Denali has quickly become the household favorite. Plenty of room, handles very well and gets moving when you want it to. Tried the Z71 and it failed miserably compared to the Denali. We also bought the vehicle with the 20 inch rimms and it is terrific on the highway. Over 70 mph it lumbers in regards to the handling but we love this truck. Navigation is good but Magellan Roadmate is a much better option so if you want to save money skip the Nav package and get the Roadmate. Well crafted vehicle.

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  Corvette SUV - 2006 GMC Yukon
  By nwwriter - December 31 - 1:11 am

  Excellent SUV for the price. If you are looking for a luxury SUV to provide the best performance, handling, comfort, cargo capacity, amentities, technology, reliability, then this is the SUV to purchase. In addition, 0% financing and excellent prices. Tested MANY SUVs and the only other to beat this one out is the Toyota Land Cruiser/Lexus 450 but much pricier and Toyota salespeople are terrible to deal with.

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  God Bless Them Yukons - 1996 GMC Yukon
  By sugadashane - December 26 - 6:44 am

  I have a 96 Yukon and I just bought it about a week ago, a long time Chevy/GMC fan I just love this truck. It has a 6 inch lift and is chipped and ram aired to get me 350hp on the dyno. Truly not a force to be messed with. Will go through anything anytime anywhere.

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  Great Fun to Drive Total Enjoyment - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By PCB4ME - December 18 - 10:02 pm

  I have driven sports cars and sedans and this has to be one of the best built and best riding vehicles I have driven. The heated leather seats have been great during the cold winter mornings. The Bose audio system is pretty nice as well. The engine is strong and the vehicle has great towing ability and I am getting about 18mpg on the highway with the 5.3L V8

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  I love it anyway - 1996 GMC Yukon
  By Betsy - December 12 - 2:03 am

  Bought my truck new 9 1/2 years ago... now has 148,000 miles on it... Up until this year, had very few repairs, but this year, I have replaced brakes, alternator, battery and the fuel pump twice. Just spent $1300 to get rid of a "Service engine soon" light, and I still have the light... So I get my 2nd fuel pump this week. Other than that, I love my truck, but feel it may not be as reliable as Id like... May need to buy new. It also eats a ton of gas!