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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  Greates car ever! - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By rick123 - December 3 - 11:51 pm

  Wow has this car ever been by far the best I have EVER had. We bought it 3 years used and it was like brand new. Never had been in a crash or anything. The car has lots of power and options. Ours had leather interior, 7 inch flip down dvd system, bose sound, heated front seats, towing package, and much more. I loved this car. Last summer we moved and was hauling massive loads of stuff and the car pulled hills like it was nothing. The only problem we had with it was we were on vacation and the steering pump went out. We do not have it today because the payments were to much and had to trade it off sadly. I now have the money to buy it back and looking for the dealership.

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  Great SUV - 2009 GMC Yukon
  By Aj - November 30 - 7:43 am

  I always drove Toyota and Hondas but after long research bought Yukon 2009. I am really impressed by smooth drive. We have two kids and our parents often travel with us, its been great fun in Yukon. DVD quality is great. I wish they had LATCH for car seat at all seating places in middle and third row. There are no front latches in 3rd row and has only one back latch. You might have tough time fitting two car seat in 3rd row. I get about 14.5 mpg at 1000 mi. Over all, not going back to Honda and toyota at all.

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  Great SUV - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By theone - November 30 - 12:15 am

  I bought my Yukon on NOV of 08, its a great suv. It handles good in the snow and around town. So far had to replace rear brake and power steering pump. I love to drive it the only thing i dont like is the 255 hp. but its still enough to keep up with the newer vehicles.

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  Not Bad for 125,000 miles - 2002 GMC Yukon
  By scott45 - November 21 - 12:01 am

  Call me crazy but I bought a 2002 Denali with 120,000 miles on it. I have had it for two months (5000 miles) and am very pleased. I would have never thought to buy a vehicle with that many miles but the previous owner took exceptional care of this car. The ride is very nice although if the road is bumpy so is the ride. The performance is outstanding. It flat out moves when you give it the gas. My biggest complaint is that the front seat doesnt quite go back far enough. The mileage is at 16 mpg with about 50/50 driving. The cars transmission was rebuilt at 110,000 miles. My mechanic said it was one of the nicest cars he has seen with that high of mileage. Inside and out.

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  Back to Ford - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By livinhi - November 12 - 12:35 pm

  I purchased this 9mo ago it had a few mile on it 150000 to be exact but thats how I purchase all my cars. This thing had so many problems with it I am shocked. I am usually a Ford person but love the looks of the Denali. Wow never again. The slip yoke problem on this thing is enouph to drive a person crazy. The mechanics cant seem to fix it or even find the problem, but they sure can hear it banging, it feels like the entire drive line is going to fall off. So Im done with GM back to Ford!!

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  Best SUV I have owned - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By Marylander - November 2 - 2:00 am

  My only complaint, which transcends almost any luxury SUV or sedan, is the bulky center console which restricts drivers leg movement and makes frequent stretching breaks necessary on long trips (Im 65")! Great looks, comfort, fun to drive, turns on a dime, fuel economy has significantly exceeded EPA estimates, no regrets about this purchase.

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  2008 Denali AWD - 2008 GMC Yukon
  By lgb - October 30 - 7:12 pm

  We first test drove the yukon SLT to replace our 2005 Denali. We never used the rear DVD player or Navigation in our 2005 so we thought we would down grade to the regular Yukon. NOT! Had to go back to the Denali series because the regular yukon didnt compare to the comfort we were used too. So we purchased a 2008 Denali.

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  Great trik - 1999 GMC Yukon
  By airborne - October 24 - 12:03 pm

  I bought my Yukon with 66000 miles, i have had to replace the front right lower balljiont and rear brakes. I love the way it handles the gas mileage is good for a truck its size 14city/18hwy.

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  Best vehicle Ive owned - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By cbourret - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Very comfortable and powerful. Much nicer and roomier than the Jeep Grand Cherokee I owned previously. It is the nicest vehicle Ive owned to date. I towed an enclosed motorcycle trailer from Baltimore to RI... The Yukon handled so well I almost forgot I had a trailer back there.

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  The Best - 1996 GMC Yukon
  By Dasman - September 28 - 4:38 pm

  I bought this truck at 99000 miles on it. The dealership was ready to wholesale it. I needed an truck for my business so I bought it. It just turned 200,000 miles and besides the regular maintence (brakes, tires, battery, Alternator) This is the best trucj I ever had. It rides great the leather seats are comfortable, (although they are cracking) It keeps its good looks and performs just great. If I ever have to get rid of it, im buying another GMC Yukon or Suburban. I ope GMC keeps the quality as good as this.