If you've got a lot to haul, the GMC Yukon range is one of the best ways to do it. But if not, consider a crossover that will use much less fuel and be better to drive. Its spec sheet may read like an SUV from a different era, but the 2017 GMC Yukon range is a highly-refined passenger, cargo, and trailer-hauler that makes a compelling choice to those who need to carry around more than just the family.
Pros Refined demeanor Sauve interior Denali's Magnetic Ride Control Automatic emergency braking
Cons Expensive, especially with options Third row folds flat but takes up a lot of room A crossover may make more sense for many
For 2017, the GMC Yukon receives low-speed automatic braking paired with the existing forward collision warning system and a teen-driver management system. Cooled seats have now been replaced with ventilated seats, the rear entertainment system input has been updated, and a head-up display is standard on the Denali trim.
Pros Seating for up to nine passengers Standard V8 engine delivers ample passing power and a stout tow rating Clean cabin design is one of the best in the class Available two-speed transfer case gives the Yukon the ability to tackle difficult off-road terrain.
Cons High cargo floor height makes loading bulky items difficult Hard to maneuver in tight spaces Less cargo room than car-based SUVs of similar size Maximum passenger capacity is available only in the base model Engine doesn't respond to gas pedal inputs quickly enough.
The 2017 GMC Yukon ranks 3 out of 6 Large SUVs. The GMC Yukon gets high scores and a high ranking in the small – but fierce – large SUV class. Its strong performance and attractive interior keep it ranked above most other options.
Pros Decent power Stellar fuel economy for the class Premium interior materials Large cargo hold in XL trim
Cons Slow-to-shift six-speed transmission Limited cargo space in non-XL models
For 2017, the GMC Yukon XL now adds automatic low-speed emergency braking to the existing forward collision warning system and a teen-driver management system. Cooled seats have now been replaced with ventilated seats, the input capability for the rear entertainment system has been updated, and a head-up instrument display is standard with the Denali trim.
Pros Seating for up to nine passengers Nicer interior than other truck-based, full-size SUVs All-terrain mobility with four-wheel drive Tow rating is higher than average for the class.
Cons The Yukon XL's size and weight make it less maneuverable around town Lazy throttle response makes it feel weaker than it is Only the base model delivers nine-passenger capacity Utility of cargo space is compromised by a high load floor.
In the world of full-size family SUVs, the 2017 GMC Yukon stands head and shoulders above the rest. The Yukon, with its longer sibling, the Yukon XL, is more modern in design than the aging Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia, yet its abilities are in full view, reminding all competitors that this slick big rig is still a workhorse at heart. While SLE and SLT trim get by with a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8, the Denali trims are equipped with a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter unit that knows no equal in this class. And while it’s true the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator can tow more weight, neither can match the Yukon’s cutting-edge styling, driver assists or optional technology features.
Pros If you need the big hauling, towing and cargo abilities of a full-size SUV, GMC’s Yukon, Yukon XL and Denali SUVs for 2017 have all the bases covered. You’ll get style, supreme luxury and cutting-edge features, plus with the XL, added space that a Nissan Armada or Toyota Sequoia can’t match.
Cons The 2017 GMC Yukon XL is a big SUV that at times can feel like a bull in a china shop. If you just need room for seven or eight passengers, a more maneuverable midsize-crossover SUV like the GMC Acadia Limited, Honda Pilot or Ford Explorer might be a better choice.