Overview & Reviews

Known in its earlier years as the GMC Suburban, the GMC Yukon XL is actually one of the longest-running models sold in the United States. This popular SUV debuted back in 1936. After serving faithfully for many evolutionary years as a truck-based station wagon primarily meant for commercial or rural use, the renamed gentle giant has increasingly become the go-to choice for families or anyone needing class-leading passenger and cargo capacity as well as solid truck-based towing capability.

With stout underpinnings, strong powertrains, a comfortable ride and spacious seating for up to nine plus their cargo, the current truck is a very capable large SUV. A short list of competitive sport-utilities may offer more refinement and ultra-lux conveniences for more bucks, but the GMC Yukon XL (as well as its Chevy Suburban equivalent) remains easy to recommend thanks to its massive versatility. Furthermore, used vehicle shoppers with more serious towing requirements should know that, up until 2015, and unlike its few rivals, the Yukon XL was also available in a heavy-duty (2500) version.

Current GMC Yukon XL
Redesigned for 2015, the GMC Yukon XL is a longer-wheelbase version of the Yukon full-size SUV. 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. Seating for eight is standard, but available second-row captain's chairs drop the count to seven, while a front bench seat (available only on the base model) increases it to nine.

The trim level structure includes base SLE, luxurious SLT and downright plush Denali models. Yukon XL 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 front seats 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 heated and power-folding captain's chairs.

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 Yukon XLs 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 XL'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. Inside there's an upscale, modern design featuring high-quality materials. However, although we're glad the Yukon XL now has an integrated fold-flat third-row seat, it makes for a rather high loading height. As such, a Toyota Sequoia or big crossover like GMC's Acadia might better suit your cargo- and passenger carrying needs. But if you need the Yukon's outsized towing, hauling and passenger capabilities, it's as good as it gets.

Used GMC Yukon XL Models
The GMC Yukon XL that was produced from 2007 through 2014 boasted an updated chassis that provided all of the prior version's strength along with a more comfortable ride and improved handling, performance and efficiency. This Yukon XL had more slab-sided styling than the prior generation and also had more in terms of safety features, such as front seat side airbags, stability control and side curtain airbags for all three rows.

This generation of the Yukon XL came in two versions – standard 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 -- and three trim levels: well-equipped SLE, leather-lined SLT and top-dog Denali (1500 only). The 1500 versions had a 5.3-liter V8 (320 hp), while the 2500s came with a 6.0-liter V8 rated at 352 hp. The Denali trim featured a 6.2-liter V8 with 380 hp until 2010, when output climbed to 403 hp. All were mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and all offered a choice of either two- or four-wheel drive except for the Denali. The latter was equipped with an all-wheel-drive system that didn't have low-range gearing. Towing capacity of the heavy-duty 2500 version could approach 10,000 pounds.

For such a big SUV, this GMC Yukon XL is relatively quick, although a full load of passengers and gear will slow down the base V8 considerably. On the move, these Yukon XLs are composed and offer up a smooth ride. When pointed straight down an interstate or out in the wide-open spaces, there aren't many better, more capable cruisers than this GMC Yukon XL. Overall, it's a compelling and top-rated choice for used vehicle shoppers with lots of people- or gear-hauling needs.

Potential buyers should note that there were a few notable changes throughout this generation. For 2008, a six-speed automatic replaced the four-speed unit on the 2500. The following year the 1500 benefitted from the same upgrade. Front side airbags debuted for 2010, as did a standard USB port for the audio system. For 2014, the heavy-duty 2500 series was dropped from the lineup, and the SLE trim got more standard features, namely rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and power-adjustable pedals.

The previous-generation Yukon XL that debuted for the 2000 model year and lasted through 2006 was packaged more efficiently than before and heralded the debut of this model name, as this vehicle was previously called a Suburban. Although increasingly outclassed by newer competitors in its later years, this Yukon XL's warehouse-sized interior made it an easy pick for families and home remodelers who truly needed massive passenger and cargo space. Interior materials and fit and finish were merely adequate, however, and the exterior design was beginning to look a tad dated by the end of its run.

This generation was slightly shorter than its predecessor and several trim levels and a couple of modest V8s were available initially, but by 2001 the two "small-block" engines were up to 285 and 320 hp, while an available new 8.1-liter V8 with 340 hp and 455 lb-ft of stump-pulling torque offered even more grunt. The Yukon XL inched further up the comfort scale as the years went by, but the big news for '03 was the availability of an innovative Quadrasteer four-wheel-steering system on 3/4-ton (2500) models -- reducing the turning circle by a substantial 8 feet and also improving towing stability. The cabin also received numerous improvements including tri-zone climate controls and available DVD entertainment, second-row captain's chairs and power-adjustable pedals. Updates including OnStar, steering-wheel audio controls and tire-pressure monitoring carried the big GMC through 2006.

Previous to this was the Suburban from 1992-'99. After a long, enduring model run by the previous generation that extended from 1973-'91, the then-new '92 GMC Yukon XL finally adopted the sleek body design and freshened interiors of its previously updated pickup truck siblings. In addition to handsome new looks, this completely redesigned Suburban boasted more glass area and a lower step-in height than its antiquated predecessor.

After a few years of detail improvements, redesigned seats and a new modular dashboard graced the Suburban's interior in '95, and a year later daytime running lamps marked the adoption of several powerful new Vortec gasoline engines ranging up to 290 hp. For off-roaders, four-wheel-drive models adopted a modern independent front suspension and a more convenient Insta-Trac electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case. In '98, four-wheel-drive operation was enhanced again with an optional AutoTrac automatic full-time 4WD system for set-it-and-forget-it convenience.

User Reviews:

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  Nice used truck - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By andy - May 22 - 2:10 pm

  I bought this vehicle in the midst of the SUV/fuel price crisis meltdown. Had it for 3 months now. Really liking it. Got it cheap for what I would have paid for it 6 months ago but it does drink down the gas in town.13 mpg in town.This is the 2wd model and has the best mileage of the bunch. On the open highway though it is great. Comfortable, safe and good height for vision.60mph/23mpg.65mph/22mpg.70mph/19mpg. This is from measuring fuel, not going by the mpg indicator on the dash which I find overestimates by 0.8 mpg. So,with its great power, size and comfort (and reasonable fuel economy for its size) it makes a great vacation car. Just dont use it as a daily commuter.

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  WOW! - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By GMC Lover! - May 17 - 9:43 am

  What a nice big safe knockout of a car!

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  A HUGE truck - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By jarles - May 9 - 2:00 am

  We upgraded from a mivivan after moving to the snowy Northeast, and adding a couple of kids to the family. The truck is large, comfortable, and drives very smoothly. You only notice its size when maneuvering in tight areas and parking. Because we needed room for 6 and luggage, this was our choice. We would have liked to go smaller, but nothing else could offer the combination of passenger space, luggage, and the ability to drive in snowy, icy weather.

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  Too many broblems and no support ! - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By fred E. - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Have A 2001 yukon xl, the suv broke down on the road,got it tow dealership,they said fuel pump problem and I had to pay for it,because warrenty ran out at 36000 miles ,after week of rental it was ready and then few days later same problem happen, got tow to difrent dealership, fuel pump related again and 3 days later and since the second time this happen,my wife did not want to go any where far with it,and finally she calls me again today that the truck leaking some in the rear and was not stoping as she was backing out the drivway, tow again this time brake line came outloose,and in pass I had called customer service and were no help

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  First Yukon XL delivered to my dealer. - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By Joe - May 8 - 5:36 am

  The vehicle performs very well. Towing a travel trailer across the country I got 12 mpg which I thought was fine. Solo it gets close to 20. Over 6,000 miles it has used no oil and the computer says to change it at 15,000 miles. The fit and finish was a little disappointing. I need to take it to the dealer to have the strip on the passenger side replaced as it is falling off. The right rear wheel well also has a slight defect. Other than the finish problems the vehicle performs very well. The navigation system is very good and performs exceedingly well. It got us out of several problems with detours. The preprogammed trips are excellent.

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  Fun to Drive - 2009 GMC Yukon XL
  By Joseph - May 7 - 8:10 am

  Bought our Yukon in Sept. to have another towing vehicle and for family trips. Its been great. We are enjoying the cylinder shut down feature (v8 to v4) as it gets mileage around 17 when warmed up. Comfort and ride are great (go for the autoride). Enjoying the dual row heated seats and the autostart. Would like to see more details for the money (blind spot monitoring or mirrors, pin lights for night time cabin lighting, more cubbies for storage). I too would suggest moving the compass/temp back to the center. The overall fit and finish has been very good with only one problem with a plate cover in the inside the door handle. Vehicle has met our needs for volume, handling and comfort.

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  yukon denali xl - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By franfoods - April 27 - 5:33 am

  great vehicle. lots a nice features, needs to be a little more fuel efficent. maybe making it not all time 4 wheel.

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  Denali XL AWD - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By DENALIGUY5 - April 19 - 2:00 am

  This truck is the best I have ever driven. With outstanding ride and handling for a truck of this size, it is a definate best buy. Still a luxury suv without the "hand-off" feel of its more expensive cousin, the Escalade ESV. An engine beyond comparison(Vortec 6000) it beats out the competitors 10 to 1!

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  Could be Better - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By Racer - April 14 - 10:00 am

  Its great to haul the kids and travel in, and being black it is pretty to look at but I would prefer to have fewer little problems with it. It has had the transmission worked on for shifting improperly. It burned oil, 2 or more quarts every 3500 miles until the dealer fixed that. The interior could have better quality with many less rattles. I am not hard on cars and it spends most of its time on the highway and never off road. Considering how much a Yukon cost, it could have much better quality. I also have two other friends with 2001 Suburbans and they also burn oil.

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  Yukon Denali - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By Jesse - March 24 - 1:30 pm

  Its great for kids. The DVD keeps them happy during trips. Space between the two captain chairs in the second row is wonderful for access to the third row. The ride is very comfortable, even in the third row bench seat. We love the way the vehicle looks. It has a very nice style to it. Were very happy with this choice of vehicle.