2021 GMC Yukon – A Spacious, Powerful, and Comfortable, Family SUV
If you are looking for a large, powerful and comfortable three-row family-hauling and toy-towing utility vehicle, the 2021 GMC Yukon should be on top of your buying list. Completely redesigned for the 2021 model year, the Yukon now comes equipped with an independent rear suspension, a first for the large SUV. Yukon buyers also have their choice of four model variants and three engine choices, including two gasoline V8s and a turbo-diesel inline-six. The automaker has also enhanced the cabin and cargo room. Let’s delve into the specifics.
Engine, Performance, and Mileage
The new 2021 GMC Yukon gives you two gasoline engine options: a 5.3L V8 generating 355 horsepower and a 6.2L V8 producing 420 horsepower. Those wanting to carry heavy objects would be happy with the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-six creating 460 lb-ft of torque. All engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission activated through a push-button panel on the dash. The power goes to rear- or all-wheels depending upon your choice.
For the first time, GMC offers an off-road-focused AT4 variant boasting a two-speed transfer case, 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and an elective air suspension, equipped to provide equal to two extra inches of ground clearance.
The automaker says the smaller 5.3-liter V8 returns 6.8 km/l in the city, 8.5 km/l on the highway, and 7.6 km/l combined. These mileage ratings are reasonable for a big utility vehicle. The turbo-diesel can take you further with up to 8.9 km/l city driving, and 11.4 km/l highway.
Seating and Cargo
The three-row SUV can seat eight people in the standard layout or seven with elective second-row bucket seats. All three rows are equally equipped, meaning even the third row can accommodate adults.
GMC claims the new “Yukon is one of the best cargo haulers on the market.” You get 25.5 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats and can stretch it to 72.6 cubic feet by folding down the third-row seats and 122.9 cubic feet behind the second and third row.
If you have a big family and need to haul even more luggage, go for the Yukon XL that offers 41.5 cubic feet of room in the standard format, 93.8 cubes with the third row folded, and 144.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All the 2021 GMC Yukon variants feature a big 10.2-inch touch screen with GMC's latest IntelliLink interface. This easy to see and reach infotainment system stands tall in the center for the SLE, SLT, and AT4. For the Denali, it looks more lavish owing to the shiny chrome surrounding it. The standard features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, six speakers, satellite radio, HD Radio, a Wi-Fi hot spot, six USB ports, and Bluetooth. The navigation, a Bose audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and a power-sliding center console come for an extra price.
Safety and Drive-Assistance Facilities
As of the time of this article, both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have not tested the 2021 Yukon and Yukon XL. However, a long list of standard and available advanced safety features makes it one of the safest SUVs on the market.
Price
The base SLE variant starts at $58,548, the SLT $66,648, and the AT4 goes for $75,248. While the top-of-the-line luxurious Denali starts out at $80,348.
