2018 GMC Yukon XL Denali: Putting the Full-Size SUV to Work

Even on the highway, putting the pedal, down the V8 just doesn’t roar like you would expect (or maybe you would want). Mated to the new transmission, the GMC Yukon effortlessly slips through the gears and with the Magnetic Ride Control it feels so smooth, it could trick you into thinking you are driving an electric Chevy Bolt and not a 7-passenger SUV.

Now it is a full-size SUV with 224.4” of length and a 130” wheelbase as well as being 74.4” tall (a little over 6’2” tall). During our week of testing, we folded down both rows of seats and put 8-foot dog ear fence panels in the back without an issue. No tying the rear tailgate shut or driving with the gate open. Toss them in and shut the tailgate, simple as that.

How did it do with a load? We hauled a small trailer and loaded it up with trash. It was a lot of work loading up the trailer and while we got tired and sweaty, the Yukon ignored the trailer and barely broke a sweat.

The rear still features a solid axle with five-links and coil springs with the Magnetic Ride Control. This combination pulls strong and provides an independent rear suspension ride quality. With the 6.2L, the Yukon can really move some weight with a max towing capacity of 7,900 lbs with 4wd models and 8,100 for 2wd – about half of what a half-ton pickup can tow.

Critics of the Yukon XL will point to its abysmal fuel economy of 14/21 city/highway with 4wd models (14/23 city/highway 2wd) and its massive size. Apparently, the Yukon XL Denali is overkill in their view on what people really need vs. want. The starting MSRP of $68,900 also causes them some concern.

On paper, they may be correct, yet behind the wheel, their arguments feel foolish. When you have a large family, you actively do outdoor adventures with campers or boats and you want some comfort, the GMC Yukon XL Denali is really hard to beat. It is a purpose-built vehicle and it flat out excels.