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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  2004 Yukon - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By ExonicJay - May 4 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased my second Yukon. I really like features the 2004 model offers over my older 2000 model.

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  Best of Show - Yukon - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By campertom - May 3 - 2:00 am

  Having owned a variety of vehicles and makes (Jeep, Ford, Volvo, Olds, Isuzu, Porsche, VW - and driven most others) Ive been fortunate never to run across a lemon but could always easily produce a "wish" list of what could have been better. This Yukon is near perfection - very comfortable, powerful, and looks great! I cant wait for my next one!

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  Great Car - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By John Berrill - April 18 - 2:00 am

  Third seat would be more usful if it folded into the floow like some other suvs Pulls the boat without effort. (4400 lbs)

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  steering and alignment suck - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Michael22 - April 12 - 2:00 am

  The steering shaft, alignment, and crossmember keep needing work. I took it in 3 times for alignment because the tires are wearing on the outter side, and the steering shaft has been changed once, and it still makes noises and rattles when i turn, and the crossmember has been changed because it made clicking noises when i turned-- that is the only problem the dealer fixed right the first time.

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  For The Price - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By t and t - April 11 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle ride well and looks good,But for the money the dash and interior wood grain is substandard.

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  I LOVE MY YUKON - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By kayj - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I usually dont keep a vehicle as long as this but I plan to hold on to the Yukon. It is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. It rides like a caddy and is quieter than anything I have had. And I have owned Ford Explorer and Expedition as well as Jeep Grand Cherokee.

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  Near Perfect - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By walters - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Besides being an incredible gas guzzler, this is an awesome vehicle, (short bus).Do not buy for "primary vehicle" or cuz "Ill look cool in a Denali" vehicle. Cuz for one,a Denali is ONLY efficient and sufficient to own as a primary vehicle when your second car is a 14 seater stretch Hummer limo, and no, you probably dont look as cool as you think you do rollin in your Denali cuz most of the people that even realize that it is a Denali and not a Tahoe, are to busy thinking about how cool THEY are rollin in a Denali. Most people that can appreciate how sweet,cool and expensive a Denali is have one themselves.

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  bad choice - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By pbdrive - March 26 - 2:00 am

  for the money, this is the worst investment you can make. the interior design is the same in the $30K yukon as the $52K denali, and looks and feels cheap. the denali is bulky, sways significantly with bumps, and the steering is so loose there is not the slightest feel of agility with this vehicle. further, i have had multitude of problems with the headlights not coming on, as well as problems with reduced engine power and stabilitrack. the navigation is cumbersome, and confusing and is not touchscreen (even the nav on the honda accord is touchscreen!)

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  Great SUV..never lets me down. - 1994 GMC Yukon
  By CFIMuddog - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Bought my Yukon used in 97 with 35,000 miles on it. As of today it has just over 238,000 miles on it. I can honestly say it drives like the day I bought it. Great on and off the road. It will carry anything and is just as content blazing down the highway at 80mph as it is in the mud. I have replaced the usual wear out items but the engine and transmission are original are running great. It has all the power and torque I need and still gets 20 mpg on the highway. The highway ride is solid and comfortable and it will pull anything. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a do- it-all SUV that can carry 4 in quiet comfort.

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  NEW TRUCK - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By MISTADAN - March 22 - 2:00 am

  GREAT TRUCK TO DRIVE(I DRIVE IN THE CITY EVERY DAY,ALL DAY AND THE TRUCK RUNS FINE AND IS VERY QUIET TO DRIVE.IM GETTING 13 MILES TO THE GALLON.