There aren’t many better choices for large SUVs than the GMC Yukon. GM has perfected the art of creating desirable large SUVs, which is why you see Tahoes, Suburbans, Yukons, and Escalades everywhere. Nobody does large SUVs like GM, and the Yukon is no exception, offering a smooth ride, spacious interior, and plenty of tech to keep the family safe.
The Yukon Denali is the ultimate large SUV, combining space with luxury in a way other competitors struggle to match. While the Yukon isn’t perfect, it should be at the top of your list when shopping for a large three-row SUV.
The Yukon offers several engine options: a 5.3L V8, a 3L Turbo Diesel, and a 6.2L V8 on the Denali trims. GM’s V8 engines are among the best in the industry, and it’s impressive that they still offer them on most of their large SUVs and trucks, unlike some competitors who are downsizing to six or even four cylinders. The 6.2L V8 delivers impressive power, making acceleration easy and allowing for smooth overtaking and merging on the highway. The 10-speed automatic transmission is smooth in everyday driving, but it takes a moment to downshift when you press the accelerator hard. The manual gear selector buttons are a drawback; they feel out of place in the cabin and don’t always respond quickly.
One of the main drawbacks of a large SUV is poor handling, and the Yukon is no exception. Its heavy weight makes handling a challenge, but considering its primary purpose as a family hauler, this is not a major concern for most buyers.
As expected from a large SUV, the Yukon offers a smooth and impressive ride quality, especially in the Denali model we tested, which features adaptive dampers and air suspension. Complementing the ride quality is the quiet cabin, which remains relatively serene even at high speeds, with minimal wind and road noise.
The Denali trim also offers air suspension, which improves entry and exit from the vehicle, as well as loading and unloading luggage. Additionally, the raised setting and two-speed transfer case can help when driving off-road or on unpaved surfaces.
The Denali trim is the most luxurious in the Yukon lineup and lives up to its name. The interior feels upscale, and while it might not match some German competitors in the same price range, it holds its own with high-quality materials and solid build quality. The cabin is spacious, with all three rows offering ample headroom and legroom for adults. Entry and exit are easy, and the air suspension can lower the vehicle for added convenience.
Visibility is generally good in the front, although the thick rear pillars can obstruct the view. The available 360-degree camera system is extremely helpful for parking and maneuvering this large SUV around the city.
The front controls are a mix of virtual buttons and chunky physical knobs and switches, which is somewhat disappointing in an otherwise excellent interior. While some buttons and knobs are easy to use without taking your eyes off the road, others are oddly placed and grouped, making the whole area feel out of place.
The seats in the Denali trim are generally comfortable and supportive, with plenty of sliding and height adjustments. As expected from the Denali trim, the seats also come with heating, ventilation, and massaging features, all of which work well.
The Yukon’s infotainment system features a 10.2″ touch screen with Google built-in, offering quick response times and an easy-to-use interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity come standard, along with an available Wi-Fi hotspot. The fully digital gauge cluster offers decent customization and enhances the modern ambiance of the cabin.
Despite being a large SUV, the Yukon Denali is equipped with 13 different camera views that help in navigating tight parking spots and maneuvering through narrow spaces. These camera views provide a comprehensive perspective of the vehicle’s surroundings, making it easier to park and avoid obstacles. The system includes features such as a 360-degree bird’s-eye view, front and rear views, and even specific tire-angle views, which help when driving in confined areas.
There are multiple USB ports throughout the cabin and a wireless charging pad, allowing all passengers to charge their devices. The Denali’s sound system, powered by Bose, delivers impressive audio quality and has 18 speakers throughout the cabin for a great music-listening experience.
The highlight in the cabin is GM’s Super Cruise driver assistance technology, which is one of the best in the industry, second only to Tesla. This feature allows for full hands-free driving on compatible roads. Even the regular radar cruise control and lane keep assist work impressively well, providing a good experience on roads where Super Cruise isn’t available.
Space is a crucial factor when shopping for large SUVs, and the Yukon delivers impressively. It offers 722L of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to a generous 3,481L with all the rear seats folded down. Inside the cabin, there are numerous storage areas for personal items, including a deep bin below the center stack and two-tier storage in every door. The available sliding center console is handy for concealing small items, though it reduces underarm storage by splitting the cubby into two compartments.
The second-row car seat anchors are visible and easy to access, making car seat installation simple. The second row also features two 12.6-inch LCD touch screens mounted to the back of the front seats for children’s entertainment.
The Yukon can tow up to 8,000 pounds when equipped with 4WD and a 6.2L engine. With excellent storage capacity and towing capability, the Yukon Denali is a versatile choice for families and those needing substantial hauling power.
