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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  Yukon or nothing! - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Troy A. Kost - March 12 - 10:00 am

  The GMC Yukon XL is one of the best SUVs on the market, if not the best. This is a far better truck than my best friends Sequoia, and a lot more truck for the money. Its even better on the gas in real world driving (because you dont have to floor it to go like the Toyota). The only problem is that a lot of the people that I give a ride to say "I NEED one of these".

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  XL for empty nesters - 2016 GMC Yukon XL
  By Robert Bob - March 9 - 8:21 pm

  This is a big SUV that doesnt feel big when driving. Easy to park and has a small turning radius. We often have our kids and grandkids with us and routinely haul 7 people in this and love the legroom and cargo room with everyone on board. The ride and quiet cabin are spectacular and the fuel mileage is better than expected. Has tons of torque and we will be pulling a 4,000 boat this summer and expect it to do well. Like the auto leveling rear shocks. My only disappointment in the vehicle is GMs decision to eliminate the ability to pause and rewind live radio that my previous vehicles had. This was available before 2016 but GM eliminated it which is a shame. My 2015 GMC Canyon had this feature but a $70,000 vehicle doesnt. Doesnt make sense!

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  Greatest car I have owned! - 2006 GMC Yukon XL
  By Nik - March 6 - 11:56 pm

  This our 3rd Yukon and I have had a great experience with each one! Between carpooling and out of town trips we are in this truck all of the time and it is always comfortable and reliable!!

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  Yukon sle 1500 - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By Robertlong60 - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Great Vehicle for what its designed to be. awesome interior sapce and good comfort.

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  Love my truck! - 2006 GMC Yukon XL
  By shelli - February 2 - 2:30 am

  Ive had my Yukon since April 04 and have not had any problems with it. Its got over 45,000 miles on it and everything is still like new. We have 4 children and often take trips that last over 5 hours each way -- the DVD player is a treasure. I love the heated seats and Stereo too!

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  The joy ride - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By Michelle - January 21 - 6:16 pm

  I love having this car. My father purchaed the vehicle because he does a lot of traveling and he needs a comfortable car to spend the long 8-9 hour drives in. I take the car when ever I can. I love the room and the space that it provides. The heated seats are a luxury that I wish we had so many years ago when were younger and traveled as a family. I like the idea that I can see out of the back with an unobstructed view. The only down side is that gas right now so high and it tanks on gas but I love it to much to go any other way. Ride on!

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  Buy This Car! - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Badster Adster - January 16 - 2:00 am

  This Car since i bought it has been an outstanding one. Compared to my new Mercedes SL600 2002, this 2003 Yukon XL Denali keeps up very well. I am extremely happy with the build. The only thing I would possibly change is the gas mileage. I have 8 children and this is truely the best car yet. I am considering buying a second. I havent had any problems with it yet and i dont expect any either.

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  I Love My Yukon SLT 1500 2wd!!!! - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By gmcyukonc1500 2wd - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Even though i cant get over the bad transmission problems i have had in the past,i love my truck. This is the best car i have ever bought!!! It is the best looking suv on the road. It is so smooth over bumps. The interior is well laid out and functional except i need more room for my cds. The seats are comfy and supportive!!!! The designers need to use better plastic however! I hate my cargo doors because they block my view when i am trying to get over into the next lane. Build Quality ZIP!!!! I have had more problems with this truck than anything i have ever driven. If GMC keeps up i will have to get and Expedition! The dealer is the best in New Bern.

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  Great for a Big SUV, Still Prefer a Minivan - 2011 GMC Yukon XL
  By undy6 - January 15 - 12:22 pm

  I buy new cars fairly often (every 1-2 yrs) and Ive been flipping back and forth between SUVs and Minivans for about 7 yrs now. Its because I cant get all the features I love in one or the other. As far as this SUV goes its my usual love/hate relationship. Ive had this vehicle for about 4 months now and highly doubt Ill keep it past 6 - 9 months bc I just hate big SUVs. If youre a big SUV or truck person I think its probably fantastic. I prefer more of a mid-size SUV or Minivan height myself. Yes, minivans are super goober and I swore I wouldnt be caught dead driving one ever. Four kids later and the practicality of minivans just turns me on!

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  bignfun suv - 2000 GMC Yukon XL
  By monkeybleu - December 24 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my yukon xl to haul myself and dogs to dog shows. Not only was it great for this, but a comfortable car for local driving. It is very convenient that you can fit 4x8 sheets of plywood in the back of the vehicle with the third seat removed and the second row folded down. Love the heated leather seats in the winter. The vehicle has needed a few repairs that no preventative maintenence could have avoided. Other than the reliability issue, its a great car.