The all-new GMC Yukon deserves praise
Entry price: $50,700
Price as Tested: $74,960
Likes: Muscular looks, larger dimensions, excellent interior.
Dislikes: 6.2 V8 only available on Denali, pricing moves high quickly.
This week, we’re driving the all-new 2021 GMC Yukon, delivered in 4WD AT4 trim riding on special 20-inch Goodyear tires on aluminum alloy wheels. The AT4 trim is most noteworthy, as 4x4 is standard and its optional Premium Plus Package adds $9,145 to the $64,800 list for this particular model. Yes, it’s expensive, but this option adds just about every enhanced safety and luxury amenity GMC offers and makes your 2021 Yukon a three-row SUV that has few peers.
Along with its all-new exterior and interior, this stretched three-row sibling to the Tahoe is deserving of the praise it has already received.
Promoted as “the next generation Yukon” by GMC, four trims are available starting with the entry SLE at $50,700, then up to the SLT at $57,800, our tester AT4 class at $64,800, and finally topline Denali that starts at $68,400.
Two V8s are available: The standard 5.3-liter V8 delivering 335 horsepower and 383 lb. ft. of torque and the Denalispecific 6.2 V8 that delivers 420 horsepower and 460 lb. ft. of torque. Our Yukon’s 5.3 is adequate although Denali’s
additional horsepower is a better choice if you plan to tow frequently.
Cargo space is enhanced, as is legroom for third-row passengers. If you need more room the new Yukon XL offers Chevy Suburban-type dimensions.
Every 2021 Yukon is equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission for both rear-drive and 4x4 underpinnings. Our AT4 4x4 features a two-speed transfer case and underbody front skid plates for more off-road protection.
Yukon’s ride is exceptional. Its ultraquiet interior becomes a concert hall thanks to a standard nine-speaker Bose stereo audio infotainment system along with acoustic deep-tinted glass all around. Apple and Android capability,
premium 10.2-inch touch screen with navigation, voice recognition, Bluetooth, Sirius XM with three month trial, 4G Wi-Fi, wireless charging apps and more will keep everyone happy.
As for V8 fuel mileage, the 5.3-liter V-8 is EPA rated at 16 city and 20 highway while the Denali 6.2 comes in at 15 city and 20 highway. The standard stop/ start technology and cylinder deactivation helps save fuel.
As noted above, cargo room is most generous especially when the second and third row seats are folded, offering a huge increase of nearly 28 cu. ft. Another key advantage the 2021 Yukon offers is easier third-row access because there’s 10 more inches of legroom along with second-row seats that now slide forward and aft.
On the safety side, 2021 Yukon’s near three-ton mass is a safety feature in its own right. However, Yukon’s standard high-tech safety features include Magnetic Ride Control, forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking with forward collision alert, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, front and rear park assist, front pedestrian braking, side blind zone alert, following distance indicator and a theft deterrent system.
Cabin standard notables include 12way power heated and ventilated driver and passenger bucket seats, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, tri-zone climate HVAC, perforated leather seating, front and rear 120-volt outlets, power fold 60-40 third row seat, automatic heated steering wheel, cargo management system, two USB data ports in each of the three rows, and much more.
Our tester’s Premium Package might be expensive, but it sure ups the ante with its dual power panoramic sunroof with tilt and power sunshade, automatic power step assist, adaptive cruise, rear camera mirror with washer, multi color head-up display, high-definition surround vision, advanced trailering package with brake controller, air ride adaptive suspension, pro grade towing with hitch guidance and much more.
In summary, the all-new 2021 GMC Yukon is a beauty.