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:

• 

  Once again America Fails - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By laxman - April 8 - 10:00 am

  I have my Yukon XL for 22 months. I am dissapointed in the build on the truck. I have a problem with the front end rattling after 15,000 miles. Also, the middle seat froze on me and needs a new seat riser. The best is that the dealer knows that the front end is an occurance with most 2003s. They did not have the part and said it would take a week. well 2 weeks later I call up and still no part. I guess when its under warranty, they dont want to fix the problem. I have to hound them for the part!!! I wish Toyota or Nissan would make a truck as big so I could byu!!

• 

  Love this car! - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By Bonita Vergara - April 6 - 4:40 am

  I love this vehicle. It is excellent for large families and hauling large items. It doesnt do too well with in city driving but is wonderful for long rides and highway driving. Lots of room for everyone as well as cargo space. I would get another one!

• 

  Denali 2003 - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By Denaliman - April 4 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Interior finish should be of higher quality for a vehicle of this price point. Ride is a bit truck like compared to 2 wheel drive with auto ride suspension.

• 

  Nice Land Yacht - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By rnmyers - April 4 - 2:00 am

  If you must drive a big SUV, or just really want to, the XL Denali is a fine choice. The drive train is delightfully capable for a vehicle this size. The truck also feels more nimble when cornering than you might imagine -- again for a vehicle of this size. The seats are very comfortable and supportive, the new steering-wheel mounted radio controls are convenient, the XM radio is surprisingly enjoyable, and the interior space is just about unbeatable. Done up in onyx black, this truck is also a real head-turner across all age groups.

• 

  The best large SUV Ive ever driven!! - 2004 GMC Yukon XL
  By Paulo - March 7 - 2:00 am

  i love the denali. once i sat in the drivers seat i fell in love with it. it has great throttle response, and a very comfortable ride.

• 

  Traded 2006 760LI - 2010 GMC Yukon XL
  By SkipM - March 6 - 5:13 pm

  Rock solid SUV - Paid $59k for loaded vehicle with AWD. While its not a 760LI, it is very comfortable, loaded with many features that you would find in the BMW, plus a few more that I like much more - the USB, the room, the ride - everything but the mileage is perfect. Its $10-30k less than comparable vehicles without aas much room. Denali badge comes with nice features, interior quality could be nicer, still less fancy materials than Cadillac or foreign car, but its an elegant beast none the less and great for my bull mastiff.

• 

  My first Yukon - 2005 GMC Yukon XL
  By Lucy Fan - February 24 - 2:33 pm

  I absolutely love my Yukon XL. I had two Expeditions prior to this, and I love this more. It pulls our 26 ft. travel trailer like nothing! Its very comfortable for long trips. OnStar is definitely a great safety/security feature. It has some extra special features the Expedition doesnt. I love the extra cargo space. It drives beautifully, and engine is so quiet and smooth running. Freeway mileage is great. This is finally the vehicle I can honestly say fits all my needs. This one is a definite keeper. It can haul kids, grandkids, pets, everyone, and comfortably. Seats 8...What more can I say? Check it out. You wont be sorry!

• 

  Worse MPG than my "91 Suburban - 2003 GMC Yukon XL
  By SamanthaSpade - February 19 - 10:00 am

  I replaced my 1991 Suburban. Thats the Old Old tank model. The 03 xl shakes you with every little bump in the road. At first it would bump my foot off the gas petal. This is not a heavy duty, made to last truck. The metal is very thin. You should not lean against the truck it may pop inwards on the metal. OK so I am getting use to this, but a truck thats half the weight of the 1991 Burb and not as solidly build interior or exterior, about 1/2 less leg room and storage compartment, and less the extra amenities, (1991 was a 2500 upgraded interior), I HOPED THE GAS MILEGE FOR ALL THESE MINUS WOULD MEAN BETTER GAS MILEAGE, GUESS AGAIN. My 91 was about 12-14MPG all around. My 03 xl gets just over 11 all around. UGH! I did not purchase for the gas mileage, I purchased for safety. BUT I thought I would get 2+ MPG better in the xl. I write so your not expecting what the advertisement says UP to14city -17on the highway. the Up to is really stretching it.

• 

  Another oil burner - 2007 GMC Yukon XL
  By linkowski - February 5 - 6:20 am

  I love my Yukon. However, it has been burning oil for about 3 years now. Three years ago I took it to my original dealership who told me that it was normal (with a straight face!). They refused to do anything. Fast forward to 96000 miles, took it to a Chevy dealership who listened to me and said they have had this problem. Next Monday its going in to have the "shields" put in. I am still worried. GM customer service told me they didnt know anything about any problems, that the dealership handles all of this. I know they know, but as long as they can deny it, they will. Will post again when it is allegedly fixed. Very very unhappy with GMs response.

• 

  Worst SUV ever - 2001 GMC Yukon XL
  By Alfonso Ocampo - January 31 - 6:16 pm

  Worst vehicle I have ever bought. Spent a lot of money on this truck. This SUV slips way too much in snow even with 4wd on. I changed the battery on this truck twice, brakes were horrible they couldnt be fixed, and power for this beast needs to be improved. GM dissapointed me. GMC you just fell in the same class as a Ford.