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 SUV ever owned - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By papilove2201 - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Has alot of pick and go. Smooth ride and enough power to easily pull a 28 boat up a ramp without a struggle.

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  Driver Review - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By nilesrod - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Very Dependable, Nice comfortable ride, Best riding SUV ever owned.

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  Yukon XL - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By Jtrimble - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Ive had 1998 and 2001 Linc Navigators and the 2001 had all sorts of problems and has a ride that compares to a 3/4 ton truck. The GMC Yukon XL has more room and good towing capacity, but drives with car comfort. Very consistant purformer with good quality to value ratio in the GMC Yukon.

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  50k dollars lemon - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By haytham - September 11 - 10:00 am

  i had aknok in the engin and sliping in the trans. from day one of buying my 2002 gmc denali xl in july of 2002. the dealer and gmc gave the runaround for monthes untill they admited that there is a problem. they changed the engin for me but the transmission still not fixed. they offerd that they will lubricate the shaft till 60k and that should take care of the problem. gmc and evans way of handelling this problem made me decide to never buy gmc cars ever.all truck 1998-2002 has these problems acoarding to their memos. in the next month if nothing gets done i am trading my denali xl to a ford.

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  Driving in a living room - 2007 GMC Yukon
  By Mark - September 2 - 2:43 pm

  Super roomy and comfortable. Ive had extraordinarily great reliability. Excellent in snow and incement weather with the right tires.

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  2003 Denali Is Great I Have Owned 3..... - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By Lewis - August 16 - 2:00 am

  I have owned 3 Denalis over the years, and the vehicle is great and I have never had any problems. The 2003 has a lot of new features that made me trade my 2002 in, with only 11,000 miles on it!

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  QUALITY PLUS - 2004 GMC Yukon
  By ROBERT T. SHAW - July 30 - 10:00 am

  IVE OWNED THREE EXPLORERS SINCE 1992. IVE BEEN A VICTIM OF THE FIRESTONE/FORD TIRE FIASCO. IVE SPENT MORE $$$ IN ONE YEAR ON FORDS SERVICE MISDIAGNOSISTHAN THE COST OF REGULAR MAINTENANCE ON MY WIFES 1995 HONDA ACCORD FOR THE ENTIRE TIME THAT WEVE OWNED THE HONDA.IT IS FINALLY A RELIEF TO GET A VEHICLE THAT CAME RIGHT - "OUT- OF-THE-BOX"

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  Best Vehicle I have ever had - 2015 GMC Yukon
  By Bob Boyle - July 12 - 9:36 pm

  My 2015 Yukon Denali is simply the best vehicle I have ever owned, 60K mile and no break fix repairs or complaints other than the price but, I guess, the quality is what I paid for! I have had most of the big time cars such as Cadillacs and Mercedes but this vehicle is the best and its a truck with all the cargo capacity to boot. It is quiet, has a great entertainment system, the iPhone also hooks up to the system which never happens in my wifes Ford, huge acceleration, great traction, what more can i say

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  Best Vehicle I have ever had - 2015 GMC Yukon
  By Bob Boyle - July 12 - 9:36 pm

  My 2015 Yukon Denali is simply the best vehicle I have ever owned, 60K mile and no break fix repairs or complaints other than the price but, I guess, the quality is what I paid for! I have had most of the big time cars such as Cadillacs and Mercedes but this vehicle is the best and its a truck with all the cargo capacity to boot. It is quiet, has a great entertainment system, the iPhone also hooks up to the system which never happens in my wifes Ford, huge acceleration, great traction, what more can i say

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  Impressive Vehicle - 2003 GMC Yukon
  By High Road - May 17 - 2:00 am

  I drive an average of 45K a year. I just trade my 2001 Yukon SLT (w/ 95k) for a 2003 Denali. I loved the SLT, got many positive comments on it. The new Denali is clearly a step above. It is faster, handles better and most shocking to me; it is more fun to drive. The Denali is not inexpensive by any means, but NO vehicle matches it in overall looks and performance for the price.