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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  The best vehicle I have ever owned! - 2001 GMC Yukon
  By Snowman - June 4 - 2:00 am

  This is the 2nd Denali I have owned and I dont know how the folks at GMC can top this one! I owned one of the 1st Denalis to come out and had only 2 suggestions to improve that one. 1. More HP! and 2. 4 wheel disc brakes. Both of those items were addressed in the 2001 Denali I have now. My partner and I have 2nd thoughts about even looking at new ones (We have bought 2 of them both times we purchased new cars in the last 5-years).

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  The best of the best - 2000 GMC Yukon
  By Superfly1900 - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Love the new looks!! Got the two tone blue metallic paint with gold on the bottom. The 5.3 has tons of power for towing my toys! Love the autoride suspension!

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  My Yukon - 2002 GMC Yukon
  By Georgia Yukon - June 1 - 2:00 am

  Strong motor and trans. Interior plastic parts leave lots to be desired. Totally plastic dash tends to rattle. Copmfortable ride. Low road noise but some air noise around windows. Runs like and bear. Exterior styling lends itself well to cosmetic upgrades.

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  Everyone loves their Suburbans????? - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By trandall - June 1 - 2:00 am

  "The Road to Redemption" The plastic running boards are now standard. The roof rack was standard, only to find the side rails werethe cross pieces were not!!!! The plastic wheel wells do not fit the size of the well opening. Wires did extrude from the turn signals and rear trailer hitch. The seat only reclines a few inches. The console is extremely large. The entire car is bulked up plastic? The interior plastic fits just as poorly and it covers so much empty space? We wont get into gas milage,trailer hitch plugs, window openings, rear view mirrors, light switches, temperature control knobs blocked by the shift lever, back seat space, etc

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  2K Yukon, as good as it gets - 2000 GMC Yukon
  By LMc - May 30 - 2:00 am

  The 2000 Yukon XL SLE that I have driven the past two years, was purchased at a local GM dealer as a certified vehicle. The warrenty was used once to repair the rear window defrster. The SUV has proven to be reliable and an extremely comfortable vehicle to drive and ride. It is, by far, the best SUV I have owned and one of the best vehicles ever in my garage.

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  2001 Denali - 2001 GMC Yukon
  By MSB - May 29 - 2:00 am

  The Denali is a realpleasure to drive, especially nice on long trips. Mileage is 14.7 religiously. Excellent acceleration! Braking is reliable, but not as quick as it could be. This truck is used on unimproved dirt roads on a regular basis and the sure footedness of all wheel drive is exceptional. Handling feels a bit top heavy at higher speeds. Exterior styling is fantastic. Excellent curb pickup. Inside is soft and quiet. Im looking at a 2003 right now strictly because of colors and features that were not available on my 2001 model.

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  Best in Class SUV - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By tropical1 - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Yukon is extremely nice. Bose system and DVD entertainment are definitely worth it for the kids. My only complaint is gas mileage but it is still higher than I would have guessed. Anywhere from 15-20 mpg.

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  Big Bruiser - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By ANK_Massachusetts - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I was concerned about reliability given some of the reviews I had read on the internet. Anyway, picked this up at 47K and now have 69K on it. Changed the oil and lubricated the chassis every 3.5K. No problems to report The YUKON is big and comfortable with smooth acceleration from that big V8. The dual AC can make it COLD fast and the heated seats were such a relief this past winter while the car warms up. Would not buy it new! Too much money! But a few years old w/ under 50K is a fair price. Too wide for my garage unless I fold the side mirrors

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  SMMMOOOOOOTTTTHHHHHH - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By kingpin - May 20 - 2:00 am

  What could you expect after stepping out of a Isuzu Trooper? This "truck" is like sitting in a Lazy Boy recliner and coasting at 90 on the Interstate. Sure the gas mileage hurts but Bush is taking care of that for me. Solid as a rock, I never have to worry about my childrens safety in this beauty.

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  3x Repairs @ 7k - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By dtbroome - May 20 - 2:00 am

  My 03 Yukon has been in the shop 3x in 4 months of ownership- Failed Emission sensor, Leaking ALB speed sensors and faulty Climate Control. When my Yukon is NOT in the shop its a pleasure to drive. Im very disappointed with the BUILD QUALITY, as it appears to be very poor. The hassle factor has been high as the dealer must order parts to repair the SUV. I will likely go back to a Lexus or Toyota if this pattern continues. Im looking into the lemon laws in California. Think twice about buying a GMC. You get what you pay for (ie. go with Toyota or Lexus)