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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  Lots of Repairs - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By wthtlh - December 2 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has had many major repairs for the price paid. At first, many problems with the brakes (funny noise),after warranty went out air- ride shock went out (very expensive!), air conditioner unit(very, very expensive, fuel pump along with several little things. Think this vehicle should last longer for what I paid Have 82000 miles and ready to get another vehicle, NOT GMC

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  disapointed - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By tr36 - December 1 - 2:00 am

  the denalli drives like no other. it looks stylish and draws extra attention on the road. the inside is roomy and comfortable. Quality on the other hand is a hugh disapointment driving off the lot my kids had broken both the covers for power adaptors, when i shut the drivers side door the electrical control for the windows came off the door. after looking at my sisters 35,000 dollar mini van i felt shorted both on Quality and Options

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  2001 Yukon XL Denali - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By s - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Power, brakes, turning radius, vsibility, comfort excellent. Suprisingly, no rattles, no malfunctions, absolutely nothing no problems with this vehicle in a year.

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  Road Trip - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By tdt - November 11 - 10:00 am

  Excellent large SUV, a much better value than the comparably equipped ESV, rides much better than expected. Loaded with lots of features. My wife absolutely loves it.

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  Dream Vehicle A Reality - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Mister - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Wanted a usefull SUV, not a tall car.. Test drove everything in the class including the Chevy, the GMC stood apart. Excellent engineering inside and out, VERY capable (no problems extreme off-rading) leather interior exceptionally comfortable. Pretty good sound system (the sub will distort at high volumes). I tow my 17 runabout without knowing its there. Autoride is a huge plus in my book, load it up and trailer and keep the level ride. One waranty issue (leaking front differential vent) that I spotted whilst chainging the oil, fixed in a jiffy and no problems since. A must have if you wnat the Utility in an SUV.

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  Lemon? - 2008 GMC Yukon XL
  By Mom of Many - October 7 - 4:43 am

  After a month, we had to replace the alternator and water pump. Within the first year, we had several electrical problems, including navigation, faulty fuel sensor gauge, turn signal didnt make noise, we were driving the car but it registered to be in Park, we put the car in Park but it kept rolling forward, power seats shuttered as we moved them, power folding 2nd row didnt always work. Additionally, windows shook excessively, brakes made noise after a few thousand miles, the power liftgate made strange loud noises. We got rid of this piece of junk after only 11 months of owning it.

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  So Far, So Good - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By - October 6 - 2:00 am

  So far it has been a good vehicle....had it in the shop once for a exhaust problem...was covered under warranty...there is a noise in the steering column, but not enough to drive you mad...overall very pleased with the truck...only wished it got better gas mileage, if I get rid of it, that will be the only reason.

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  Pleased owner - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By mear - October 6 - 2:00 am

  Excellent performance with surprising economy given the 6.0 L engine and full-time AWD. Exceptionally quiet down the road even at 70+mph; can caryy on a conversation at normal levels between driver and third-row passengers. Outstanding front and rear A/C and heater system. Great stereo, especially the in-dash 6-CD changer. Great tow vehicle for big or small boats. Onstar is very handy, too.

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  Great Fun Car! - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By lulu - September 22 - 11:03 am

  Purchased this car on 01/02/07 to replace our 2001 Suburban LT 4x4. Demo with 1000 miles on it. Immediately drove from SF Bay area to Lake Tahoe for a weeks vacation. Remote start was unbelievable. Start the car from the house, 10 minutes later, the car is warmed up, heat on full, heated seats on, etc. Such a pleasure! Kids love the DVD with wireless headsets, mom can listen to her music, too! Handles the mountain altitude extremely well - the 6-speed automatic really shifts smoothly on the steep inclines. Much better than the Burb. Poor FM reception and distance. Great XM radio, but we need road conditions, etc.

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  Nice Vehicle / Poor Electronics - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By Roger - September 16 - 12:46 pm

  We chose the Denali over the Infiniti QX56 purely because of interior space. And while the Denali has proved to be a great vehicle for toting the kids around to all their sporting events and our cross country vacations, it always seems to be in the shop. A couple recalled items and several different electronically problems (one of which is still not fixed) have caused several headaches trying to schedule time to get the items fixed. The service and dealer folks have been very friendly and pleasant to work with but Im very close to trading it in for a QX56