Overview & Reviews

Hybrid technology is a wonderful thing, simultaneously improving fuel mileage and vastly lowering emissions. Originally, it was only available on funky hatchbacks and midsize sedans, but the GMC Yukon Hybrid represented a radically different application for a gasoline-electric powertrain. Boasting a significant increase in fuel efficiency compared to a typical big ute -- and reduced emissions, of course -- the "green" Yukon sacrificed serious off-roading ability. But this "sacrifice" would have about as much effect on the typical SUV owner as a power outage on the Amish.

Naturally, this have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too SUV wasn't cheap, with a price tag of more than $50,000 when new. Even with its significant gas savings, the Hybrid made for a questionable economic choice over the regular Yukon. When compared to GM's large eight-passenger crossovers that offered more interior space with only a minor fuel-economy deficit, it made even less sense. But if owning a traditional truck-based SUV while minimizing fuel consumption is your goal, a used Yukon Hybrid may be worth considering.

Used GMC Yukon Hybrid Models

The GMC Yukon Hybrid debuted for 2008 and was produced through 2013. This full-size, truck-based SUV utilized a gasoline-electric powertrain to earn a combined EPA fuel economy estimate of 21 mpg in combined driving, thanks almost entirely to its considerably improved city fuel consumption. The Hybrid's combined fuel economy rating was roughly 5 mpg higher than the combined rating for the non-hybrid Yukon of the same time period.

Rather than going light on the power, GMC fitted the Yukon Hybrid with a burly 6.0-liter gas V8 that, combined with the added boost of the twin electric motors, supplied up to 332 horsepower and 367 pound-feet of torque. A full "two-mode" hybrid, this Yukon had the ability to run up to 30 mph on electric power alone; hence the efficiency in city driving.

The Yukon's hybrid system included a novel dual-mode transmission design. In normal driving, the transmission would act as a CVT (continuously variable transmission). As driving demands increased, such as when towing, the transmission switched over to a more robust four-speed automatic transmission. This unique duet of transmissions also allowed the 4WD Yukon to have low-range gearing, an unusual attribute for a hybrid SUV. It also boasted a maximum 6,000-pound towing capacity when properly equipped.

The hybrid system's added weight was offset somewhat by lightweight body panels and thinner front seats. Additionally, a low-slung front airdam that would look more at home on a Corvette helped aerodynamic efficiency but hurt the Yukon Hybrid's approach angle. But since most SUVs don't actually go off road, it's essentially a non-issue.

Otherwise, the GMC Yukon Hybrid was similar to a regular Yukon, meaning it could handle as many as eight passengers and provide almost 109 cubic feet of cargo space. But to get that space one would have to physically remove the heavy 50/50-split third-row seats. That task is not required in most other SUVs (including GMC's crossover Acadia) where the third-row seats fold neatly into the floor and are more comfortable to boot.

Changes through the years were limited. Still, shoppers should note that Bluetooth was added for 2009, a USB audio port debuted the following year and front side airbags were not available until 2012.

In our reviews of the GMC Yukon Hybrid, we've found that it drives very much like a regular Yukon. Acceleration is on par and highway passing performance is even better than what a related 5.3-liter V8-equipped Tahoe provided. The main downsides concern price and absolute fuel economy. When new, the Hybrid version cost thousands more than a similarly equipped regular Yukon. And the vehicle's combined fuel economy rating, even though it's a major improvement, still isn't what most people would consider "good" fuel economy in the absolute sense. Overall, we think those who don't need massive towing capacity would be better served with the considerably less expensive -- yet equally roomy and nearly as fuel-efficient -- GMC Acadia.

User Reviews:

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  No buyers remorse here! - 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By Tex - February 29 - 12:13 am

  After the Hybrid stickers were removed, my family and I stand back and admire the beauty of this automobile. We had been persuaded away from American-made cars several years ago and went the way of the foreign minivan. We were leery of Government Motors, but are extremely happy with the quality of this vehicle. The ride is smooth, the gas mileage is really 20 mpg, and the cargo room is expansive with the last row of seats out. All our stuff can fit and when the grandparents come to town, everyone has ample room. GM did a great job without sacrificing anything. Its solid and the quality is on par with any Toyota/Honda/Nissan minivan out there!

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  First Time GMC Buyer - 2010 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By JRW - April 8 - 5:16 pm

  Quiet, comfortable ride. All you would expect from a full size SUV. Getting right at 20mpg, so again for full size SUV, cant complain. Packed with features and absolutely beautiful exterior. Interior moves easily from an executive vehicle to an off the road partner.

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  2011 Denali Hybrid 4x4 - 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By txdenalihybrid - May 16 - 9:04 am

  There are lots of things I really love about this truck but also many things that leave you scratching your head. This truck really only seats 5 adults. The third row is totally unusable for adults. And the second row is really only for shorter people. Not having a spare tire is very scary. This thing tows great- No issues towing 9,000 lbs and you really cant even notice you are towing. Hybrid system does not work logically (always kicks off at 12 mph so very little benefit to it at the stop light.) Overall, I love this truck but its exaggerated fuel efficiency, illogical third row of seats, lack of a spare tire (and place to mount a spare tire, almost makes this a no go.

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  Wow, what a car - 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By Carmine Calitri - February 21 - 11:46 pm

  As a former Ford Expedition Loyalist, I was getting tired and broke waiting for Ford to come out with a SUV Hybrid. I drive back and forth to San Diego from Las Vegas two to three times a month. I bought this car last weekend because of the employee pricing, that did away with the proclaimed ROI that all the web sites said for the price make sense. Wow, what a car! I put over 400 miles on it in town, which would have equated with two tanks in my Expedition. When I did fill it up it was 15.00 cheaper than my Expedition. Right there is a 100 savings in just the first week. The vehicle looks great. The vehicle drives like a dream. Havent taken it over to SD yet but Im sure itll be great

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  This is a great SUV - 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By ransom777 - June 12 - 2:50 am

  I have owned this car for about a month and just love it. It is quiet, comfortable, and great to drive. I am averaging about 18mpg. The nav is great and the back up camera comes in very handy. There is a ton of room in this vehicle and it is a pleasure to drive.

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  Love the truck - 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By Frank - March 16 - 9:23 am

  bought the 2008 Yukon used in 2009 with only 1500 mile on it. What a truck! Averaging around 21.7 and I have a prtty heavy foot. Very Happy with the truck, getting better gas milage than my BMW x3 with a weak six cylinder.

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  Is a "Green SUV" an Oxymoron? - 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By Ralph - March 11 - 7:36 pm

  After having owned the Yukon Hybrid for about a week, I have found the Yukon fun and easy to drive with excellent gas economy. The hybrid takes some getting used to--it sounds like a golf cart when starting out. After considerable research, we replaced a 4WD Tahoe and the difference in the mileage is startling and pleasing. We anticipate the difference between the conventional and hybrid will be obliterated in three years or less because of the gas. The interior is comfortable although the seats are harder than the older Tahoe. We took out the 3rd row of seats (not getting them was not an option)for more storage on trips. Overall, an excellent vehicle.

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  2008 Yukon Hybrid - 2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By Disappointed - January 27 - 11:10 pm

  If you are considering this vehicle for the gas mileage, forego the Hybrid and purchase a regular Yukon. Based upon the advertising, I thought that it would be worth spending the extra money for the mpg. Its not. Driving under normal conditions (acceleration and braking), I am averaging just 16 mpg, or less. The sticker on the vehicle said EPA Estimate of 20 City/20 Hwy (However, the fine print says "16-24 depending upon driving conditions" (paraphrasing), which give GM a great deal of flexibility, while disappointing the buyer! GMs Hybrid technology is questionable, to say the least. They want you to drive slower than the rest of traffic on start-ups, and brake slower than normal.

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  Good Choice - 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By Tom Young - June 12 - 12:20 am

  We did our research on a large SUV which could accomplish the flexibility in travel and towing. Along with the gas mileage for our family. After extensive research we felt the premium paid for the Yukon Hybrid was the choice for us. It is a superior family vehicle for city pick up and delivery of children and a great vacation transport.

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  Best truck ever owned, great off road but no hummer - 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid
  By mattharrisa - July 19 - 6:13 pm

  I love this vehicle .I got 13 city mpg in my previous all wheel drive 2005 denali and consistently get 19 city mpg in my Denali hybrid 4 wheel drive. I get about 20 mpg highway now vs 17 mpg in previous non hybrid Denali . I frequently go off road and had my doubts about the 22" wheels but hasnt presented a problem, although Im not pushing it off road. I do frequently ford a wide river that I need to cross to Get to my cabin up to about 18" water depth in 4 wheel drive, but wont attempt it at higher water depths. I usually ford about a foot of water with absolutely no problems. I have 22,000 miles with no problems except having heated seat replaced under warranty.