In-Depth Review of the New GMC Yukon XL: Features, Safety, and Performance
The GMC Yukon XL is a spacious and versatile large SUV that combines powerful engine options, advanced safety features, and ample cargo capacity. Designed with comfort and performance in mind, it’s ideal for large families, outdoor adventures, and long-distance trips. The SUV offers modern technology including a large infotainment system and premium sound options, making it a top choice in the full-size SUV market. Its safety features, flexible seating arrangements, and extended cargo space underscore its position as a leader among large SUVs. Perfect for those seeking a luxurious yet practical vehicle, the Yukon XL caters to diverse needs with outstanding features and performance.
In-Depth Review of the New GMC Yukon XL: Features, Safety, and Performance
The GMC Yukon XL stands out as one of the most impressive large SUVs in the current automotive market, especially designed for families, business travelers, and anyone needing abundant space combined with high performance. As part of GMC’s renowned Yukon lineup, the Yukon XL extends the classic model by an additional 15.2 inches, offering a significantly more expansive cabin and cargo area. This vehicle is meticulously crafted to combine elegance, utility, and safety, making it a top contender in the full-size SUV segment. Starting at an accessible price point of $54,800, the Yukon XL offers a compelling mix of power, comfort, and advanced features.
Engine Options and Performance The Yukon XL comes equipped with robust engine choices, catering to different driving preferences and needs. The standard powertrain includes a 5.3-liter V8 engine that provides a balanced mix of power and efficiency, suitable for everyday driving and family outings. For those seeking more muscle, the available 6.2-liter V8 engine delivers exceptional performance, making towing and highway driving effortless. These engines are paired with advanced transmission systems that ensure smooth acceleration and optimal fuel economy. Depending on the configuration, the Yukon XL features rear-wheel drive standard, with optional all-wheel drive systems for enhanced traction and stability across diverse terrains.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features Safety is a cornerstone of the Yukon XL, with every model equipped with six standard airbags to protect occupants during collisions. For added peace of mind, an optional seventh airbag is available when choosing bucket seats. The SUV comes with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies designed to prevent accidents and facilitate easier driving. Standard safety features include forward-collision alert systems, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, rear-cross traffic alerts, parking sensors, HD rearview camera, and adaptive headlights that adjust to the driving environment. Higher trims and premium packages introduce advanced safety systems such as lane change alerts, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. The top-tier Denali models elevate safety technology even further with features like adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert, and surround-view camera systems, making it a highly secure vehicle for families and professionals alike.
Cargo capacity is one of the Yukon XL’s strongest selling points, providing ample space for both passengers and cargo. With all seats in place, the vehicle offers approximately 41.5 cubic feet of storage capacity. Folding down the third-row seats expands this space to an impressive 93.8 cubic feet, ideal for larger items or luggage. Collapsing both the second and third rows creates a tremendous cargo area of around 144.7 cubic feet, comparable to some minivans or cargo vans, ensuring you can transport oversized items comfortably and efficiently. This SUV’s spaciousness makes it an excellent choice for family trips, outdoor adventures, and commercial use where cargo volume is critical.
Seating Comfort and Passenger Space
The Yukon XL can comfortably accommodate up to 8 passengers with its standard configuration, which includes a second-row bench seat. For added comfort and luxury, buyers can opt for two captain’s chairs in the second row, reducing seating capacity to 7 but enhancing individual comfort. In the more spacious configuration, the vehicle can seat up to 9 passengers with a front bench seat. The interior design prioritizes comfort, with generous legroom measured at 44.5 inches for the driver, 42 inches for second-row passengers, and 36.7 inches for third-row occupants. Headroom is similarly spacious, providing 42.3 inches for the driver, 38.9 inches for the second row, and 38.2 inches for third-row passengers. Optional sunroofs are available, which can slightly reduce headroom but add open-air enjoyment, making every drive more pleasurable.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
While the standard models of the Yukon XL have experienced a slight decline in fuel economy following the removal of auto start-stop technology, they still offer impressive mileage, particularly in diesel and two-wheel-drive configurations. According to EPA estimates, the vehicle achieves approximately 21 miles per gallon in city driving, 27 miles per gallon on the highway, with an average combined rating of about 23 miles per gallon. Its sizeable 28-gallon fuel tank allows for extended trips without frequent refueling, making it suitable for long-distance travel or road trips. Drivetrain choices impact fuel efficiency, with four-wheel-drive models generally consuming more fuel compared to their two-wheel-drive counterparts due to increased weight and drivetrain complexity. This balance between power and economy helps owners tailor the SUV to their specific needs—whether for city commuting, off-road adventures, or long highway journeys.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Yukon XL features a modern, intuitive infotainment system centered around a large 10.2-inch touchscreen display. This system supports seamless smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers and passengers to access apps, navigation, music, and messages directly from the touchscreen. Standard features include HD radio, SD card slots, Bluetooth connectivity, and Google built-in voice assistant, enhancing the overall entertainment experience. The digital instrument cluster, measuring 12 inches, offers customizable displays for crucial driving information. For rear-seat entertainment, higher trims and options include wireless screens with projection capabilities, headphones, and multiple USB ports, ensuring everyone stays entertained during long journeys. Premium sound systems are also available, ranging from a six-speaker setup in the base models to a high-end 14-speaker Bose system in Denali trims. These audio enhancements provide crystal-clear sound quality, making every ride a concert-like experience.
In sum, the new GMC Yukon XL is a versatile, spacious, and well-equipped SUV that appeals to a broad spectrum of drivers. Its combination of power, safety features, impressive cargo capacity, and modern technology makes it an excellent choice for families, adventurers, and business users seeking a reliable and luxurious vehicle. With a range of trims and optional features, buyers can customize the Yukon XL to suit their specific needs, whether prioritizing comfort, safety, or performance. As a flagship large SUV, it continues GMC’s tradition of delivering vehicles that balance utility with style, providing a premium driving experience that can handle any challenge or journey.
