2018 GMC Yukon / Yukon XL

Overview

The GMC Yukon and its long-wheelbase variant, the Yukon XL, don’t offer as much driving enjoyment or brand cachet as the Mercedes-Benz GLS450. And the Yukon’s uninspiring interior materials raise serious questions as to its value proposition. But the Yukon is not without its charms: there’s the available Corvette-derived 6.2-liter V-8 that pairs with a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Then there’s its 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, standard in every Yukon, as are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For the subset of the population whose idea of fun includes hauling the entire family and their stuff up a mountain while towing a travel trailer and six kayaks, there are few alternatives.

What's New for 2018?

A new 10-speed automatic matches up with the 6.2-liter V-8 that powers the Denali and Denali XL versions of the Yukon. The rest of the Yukon’s updates are relatively minor, including a new chrome grille design and new wood interior trim for Denali models and a new paint color for other trims called Satin Steel Metallic. There’s also the new Ultimate package, available only on Denali models, which bundles items like a motion- and incline-sensing alarm system, a power sunroof, power-retractable running boards, and adaptive cruise control with forward-collision warning.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Yukon’s pair of V-8 engines gets the job done the old-school way: with displacement. The larger, 6.2-liter is an excellent mate for these heavy SUVs with its 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. A new 10-speed automatic transmission that pairs with this engine in Denali models improves its EPA fuel-economy ratings slightly, but don't expect economy-car numbers. The Yukon’s standard powertrain is a capable 355-hp 5.3-liter V-8 engine mated to a six-speed automatic. Both engines are relaxed and quiet on the highway, and both can be ordered with all-wheel-drive. The Yukon feels every bit of its immense size on the road, responding slowly to steering inputs. But it handles fairly well for so large an SUV, and the ride proved as comfortable as many luxury sedans when wafting down the highway.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading "Find & Compare Cars" click on the "Compare Side-by-Side" tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you're interested in.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Yukon’s interior is not lacking in features, especially in the upper trim levels. But the materials and build quality don’t live up to GMC’s luxury aspirations or the price on the window sticker. There's new Mastique Ash wood trim in Denali models; but although attractive, it doesn't offset the use of hard plastic in some areas. The SLE model is available with a front bench seat, which ups its capacity to nine passengers. The mid-level SLT trim adds leather, front bucket seats, and power-folding second and third rows, although the third bench is uncomfortable for all but children. Overall, space is plentiful in the Yukon, and even more so in the long-wheelbase Yukon XL.

Infotainment and Connectivity

GMC’s easy-to-use IntelliLink infotainment system boasts practically every desirable feature, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All Yukon models come with at least five USB ports and a 110-volt power outlet. The navigation-equipped 8.0-inch infotainment system has large, easy-to-read graphics and generous touch zones, so users won’t be required to pinpoint a tiny icon in a moving car.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the GMC Yukon / Yukon XL’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.