History/Overview
The 2021 model year sees GMC’s largest SUV move into its fifth generation. This full-size utility is based on the same platform as General Motors’ full-size Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks.
What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year
For its latest iteration, the Yukon XL gets new styling inside and out and, for the first time, an independent rear suspension. Both the Yukon XL’s new look and suspension are shared with the smaller standard Yukon.
Available Trims
GMC’s initial fifth-gen Yukon XL offering consists of SLT and Denali trim levels. SLT uses a 5.3L V8, and Denali gets a 6.2L V8. Both engines come paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. SLT starts with rear-wheel drive and can be optioned to 4WD. Denali is standard with 4WD.
Standard Features
The GMC Yukon XL’s standard exterior and mechanical features include auto engine start/stop, a single-speed transfer case (4WD models), transmission fluid and engine oil coolers, heated power-adjustable side mirrors, a trailer hitch receiver with wiring, hitch guidance, 20-inch wheels, black assist steps, a hands-free power tailgate, and all-LED headlights/fog lights/taillights/daytime running lights.
Inside, there’s a 10.2-inch infotainment display, 12- and 120-volt power outlets, 12-way power-adjustable and heated/ventilated front seats, an 8.0-inch driver info centre, cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, rear air conditioning, leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, and a garage door remote.
GMC’s standard safety package comprises automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear park assist, tire pressure monitoring, blind spot monitoring with lane change alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and rear cross traffic alert.
Denali trim adds a two-speed transfer case, a dual exhaust, hill descent control, auto-dimming side mirrors, satin chrome exterior trim, a heated steering wheel, surround-view cameras, heated second-row seats, electric steering column adjustments, power-release second-row seats, and leather upholstery.
Key Options
An SLT Graphite Performance edition package brings the 6.2L engine, a head-up driver display, navigation, active noise cancellation, a trailer brake controller, magnetic ride control suspension, and a two-speed transfer case. A less-expensive Graphite Edition package is more of a cosmetic upgrade, but also adds a premium suspension with air leveling.
Denali can be optioned with an Ultimate Black Edition with 22-inch wheels, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, power-retractable side steps, a sunroof, and chrome mirror caps.
Fuel Economy
The GMC Yukon XL’s fuel consumption estimates are 14.3/11.8 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 5.3L engine and rear-wheel drive, and 15.3/12.4 with 4WD. The Denali and its 6.2L engine is rated 16.8/12.4 L/100 km (city/highway).
Competition
With the Yukon XL, GMC edges into the Cadillac Escalade’s territory, but gives up some premium features to that ultra-luxurious model. GMC competes against GM’s own Chevrolet Suburban, too.
Other competitors are the Toyota Sequoia, the Nissan Armada, and Ford’s Expedition.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
