Facts about the Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Tahoe, and GMC Yukon:
- The range-topping 420-hp, 460-lb-ft 6.2-liter V-8, and 10-speed automatic transmission come standard on all later models.
- The Air Ride Adaptive suspension with magnetic-ride-control shocks comes standard on the Escalade but is an extra cost on the top versions of the Chevy and GMC.
- Two-speed auto AWD transfer cases are offered across the board, but the Chevy Tahoe makes do with a mechanical limited-slip rear diff, whereas GMC and Cadillac offer electronically controlled diffs.
- Adaptive cruise control is optional on the Tahoe High Country and Yukon Denali, but Escalade owners get the option of Super Cruise.
- The Cadillac Escalade has three separate curved OLED display screens that combine for 38 total diagonal inches, while Chevy and GMC have a 10.0-inch central touchscreen.
- The base fleet/livery Cadillac Escalade features leatherette seats, whereas High Country and Denali models get leather seating surfaces.
- The Cadillac Escalade has an AKG Studio Reference system with 36 speakers, which is the first OEM to engage the microphone and headphone experts at AKG.
- Only Cadillac Escalade buyers can opt for an onboard refrigerator-freezer or night vision, and GMC Yukon/XL Denali buyers are the only ones who can purchase a power-sliding center console.
- Dub-deuces (22-inch wheels) come standard on Chevy’s High Country and on all Cadillacs, but GMC charges extra for them on a Denali.
- The Escalade, Tahoe, and Yukon share many features, including all the cool trailering apps, and have similar throttle and transmission calibrations.
2024 GMC Yukon Denali
The all-new fifth-generation GMC Yukon opened the lid for the 2021 model year, but General Motors is already preparing a model refresh that will debut with the 2024 model year. Late last month, GM Authority gave you test coverage of the updated 2024 GMC Yukon in prototype form, but now, we have a new image of the 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate.
For readers who may not be aware of it, the Denali Ultimate trim level was first introduced with the fully refreshed 2022 GMC Sierra 1500, arriving as the new top-range trim in the GMC Sierra lineup. Now it appears General Motors is developing a similar top-range option for the 2024 GMC Yukon refresh as well.
The big prize here is the big wheels, which have a multi-spoke design and polished finish. The large rollers look similar to the wheels seen previously on the prototype for the 2022 GMC Sierra 1500, the prototype that led to the new Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate.
For that matter, it’s a safe bet to assume that the chrome fascia under all that camouflage will incorporate the same dark, Vader treatment that characterizes the new Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate, which is clearly a stark contrast to the polished bright chrome. Denali “standard”.
It is also worth mentioning that this 2024 GMC Yukon prototype introduces a new camouflage strategy. Unlike previous photos which showed the 2024 GMC Yukon prototype in very heavy camouflage, this particular prototype incorporates a more targeted cover to disguise the front fascia, including special bits to hide the chrome trim.
As for what to expect from the 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate, the Vader front end and large alloy wheels will likely complement the body-colored bumper for the exterior, while inside, plenty of luxury features will be found around every corner, such as full-grain leather upholstery, open-porous wood trim. , and premium audio equipment. Also expected is the inclusion of a GM Super Cruise semi-autonomous drive system, although the 2024 GMC Yukon could also introduce a more advanced GM Ultra Cruise system.
Lastly, we should mention that the refresh for the current fifth-generation 2024 GMC Yukon will mark a significant change in strategy from the previous K2-based model, as the latter did not receive a refresh during its lifecycle.
Powertrain and performance
Mirroring the Tahoe and Suburban are the three engine choices on offer. The Yukon and Yukon XL will sport either a 5.3-liter V8 as standard, a 6.2-liter V8 as an upgraded option, and for the first time, there’s a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine. Look for the 5.3-liter V8 to pump out 355 hp and 383 pound-feet of torque, and the diesel-fed engine to make somewhere around 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Those numbers are based on the Tahoe and Suburban outputs, by the way; GM has yet to confirm the final Yukon specs.
The Ford Expedition is offered with a 3.5-liter, twin-turbo V6.
Ford’s
really figured out how to get maximum power and torque out of a smaller turbo engine, and with headline numbers like 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, it makes a compelling case for itself. Fuel economy doesn’t suck either, with a combined EPA rating of 19 mpg.
Nissan’s
5.6-liter overhead-cam V8 is practically ancient by now, having been introduced in its current form some nine years ago, but it still sounds good, and its 390 hp and 395 lb-ft will still allow the big
Armada
to get out of its own way. Fuel economy though is not so good, with the Armada only able to return a combined 15 mpg.
Toyota’s
Sequoia has the same problem as the Armada. It’s got a perfectly competent, under-stressed engine that’s about as old as the Appian Way. The venerable 5.7-liter V8, which also does duty in Toyota’s
Land Cruiser
makes 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque and also like the Nissan mill, can only offer a combined 15 mpg.
2007 – Current (GMT900)[]
Also called | GMC Yukon |
---|---|
Production | 2007–present |
Assembly | Janesville, Wisconsin, United StatesArlington, Texa], United StatesKaliningrad, Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia/ |
Platform | GMT900 |
Engine(s) | 4.8 L V85.3 L V86.2 L V8 |
Transmission(s) | 4-speed 4L60-E automatic6-speed 6L80 automatic |
Wheelbase | 116.0 in (2946 mm) |
Length | 202.0 in (5131 mm) |
Width | 79.0 in (2007 mm) |
Height | 74.6-77.0 in (1895–1956 mm) |
Fuel capacity | 26 US gal (98 L/22 imp gal) |
Related | Chevrolet SuburbanGMC Yukon XLCadillac Escalade |
GMC Yukon SLT
General Motors redesigned the Tahoe and Yukon on the new GMT900 platform in late 2005 as a 2007 model. A hybrid version of the Yukon, which uses the shared GM/Chrysler Advanced Hybrid System 2, followed with the 2008 models. The GMT900 based Tahoe and Yukon exceeded initial sales expectations and continue to sell well despite a weakening market for large SUVs. For the first time, GM used the Tahoe name in Mexico.
For 2007 the GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe received different front fascias and hood. The GMC Yukon features a monolithic grille and headlights, while the Chevrolet Tahoe grille is divided by a body colored bar similar to the chrome bar found on most GMT800 Tahoes. While the Tahoe’s hood now features a design attribute obtruding from its otherwise smooth contour, the Yukon features a smooth hood with two slight curves on both sides of the hood. Both the new Yukon and Tahoe feature a more angular design that gives the vehicles a more upscale appearance. The interior was significantly redesigned as well. It features a new real wooded trim dashboard with new chrome accented instrument controls. New door panels as well as new seats were also added to the interior.
Short wheelbase and police Tahoe production began at Arlington Assembly on December 1, 2005. SWB Yukon production began in early 2006, with Janesville Assembly coming on line as well. Long wheelbase versions began at Janesville and Silao Assembly in March.
Highway mileage has improved from 19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km) to 21-22 mpg (11.2 L/100 km) with the addition of Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Both the old and new versions get 15-16 mpg (15.7 L/100 km) in town.
The 2007 Tahoe was featured on, and promoted through Donald Trump’s The Apprentice, where the two teams put together a show for the top General Motors employees to learn about the new Tahoe. Also, The Apprentice sponsored an online contest where entrants could create their own commercial for the new Tahoe.
For 2009, the 6.2 L engine in the Yukon Denali got a power increase to 403 hp (301 kW), while a 395 hp (295 kW) 6.2 L was added as an option for the Tahoe LTZ. A 6-speed 6L80 automatic transmission replaced the 4-speed on all trucks except 2WD models with the 4.8 L engine.
2010 models underwent a mild mid-cycle refresh including a slightly raised bumper, revised door trim, improved side structure, and side torso air bags.
Year | Engine | Power | Torque | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
2007– | 4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8 | 295 hp (220 kW) | 305 lb·ft (414 N·m) | |
2007– | 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 | 320 hp (239 kW) | 340 lb·ft (461 N·m) | standard on 2WD models |
2007– | 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 | 320 hp (239 kW) | 340 lb·ft (461 N·m) | FlexFuel; standard on 4WD models |
2007–08 | 6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8 | 380 hp (283 kW) | 417 lb·ft (565 N·m) | Yukon Denali |
2009– | 6.2 L Vortec 6200 V8 | 403 hp (Denali)/395 hp (Tahoe) | 417 lb·ft (565 N·m) | Yukon Denali, Tahoe LTZ |
2024 Yukon Denali Ultimate
Not long ago, GMC fans squealed with joy when a spy photo caught a glimpse of the 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate prototype. Today, there is news that the future Yukon Denali Ultimate trim will replace the Yukon Denali Ultimate Pack.
The 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate trim will hit enthusiasts in time for the 2022 (temporary) model year. However, there is some reluctance with the release date. The flaws and delays have fans speculating that the Denali Ultimate trim will find its way into the 2023 model year. However, GM hasn’t confirmed this news yet, so we’re very excited about the new Yukon Denali Ultimate.
The Denali Ultimate is the new trim for the Yukon, and the package is familiar to the GM family. The Denali Ultimate trim appeared on the 2022 GMC Sierra 15000 which was enhanced initially. However, like the Sierra pickup, the Yukon Denali Ultimate will ditch the chrome exterior for a new dark gray trim, also known as Vader Chrome.
Vader chrome accents will decorate the front grille, front logo, rear logo, and trim surrounding the foglights. Additionally, the front fender badge that includes the Mount Denali topography graphic, lower door trim, rear, liftgate applique, and lower bumper trim will receive Vader Chrome trim.
The new 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate trim also features distinctive alloy wheels. However, the surrounding windows or daylight openings will remain chrome. In addition, the Yukon Denali Ultimate will also experience some premium interior changes. For example, the interior will welcome full-grain leather upholstery, open-porous wood trim, and the Mount Denali topographic map pattern that wraps around the cabin.
Accessories for the new and plentiful Denali Ultimate trim. For example, there are power-retractable assist steps, and for all the awkward ones out there, the steps include perimeter lighting. Additional accessories include a panoramic sunroof and several optional standard or basic Denali packages. Check back for the latest news on the upcoming GMC Yukon Denali trim.
Yukon Denali vs Escalade: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still, have questions about the GMC Yukon Denali and Cadillac Escalade? Here are some answers that you might find helpful:
How Much Does A Cadillac Escalade Cost
The Cadillac Escalade starts at around $80,000 for the rear-wheel drive version and $83,000 for the four-wheel drive version. The sweet spot is the Platinum range, which is around $107,000 depending on the drivetrain option. And the high-performance Escalade-V will set you back a hefty $149,000.
What Is Comparable To Escalade
Other than the Yukon and Tahoe, its closest competitor is the Lincoln Navigator. Sharing its platform with the Ford F-150, the Navigator is Ford’s entry into the world of full-size SUVs. Prices start at around $77,000, and the top Black Label trim will set you back $106,635 before options. The BMW X7, Range Rover, and Mercedes-Benz GLS are also full-size luxury SUVs. However, they’re slightly shorter and offer less cargo space, so they’re not direct competitors.
How Much Does An Escalade Weigh
The Escalade weighs between 5,635lbs to 6,217lbs depending on the drivetrain and wheelbase configuration. The Yukon Denali also weighs around the same.
Are Yukon And Tahoe The Same
Yes, the GMC Yukon and Chevy Tahoe are virtually the same cars. They share the same platform and same engine options, perfectly normal for car companies under the same ownership (in this case, General Motors). Note that the long-wheelbase version of the Tahoe is called the Chevy Suburban, whereas GMC’s offering is simply called the Yukon XL.
Which Is Better Tahoe Or Yukon
Since they’re based on the same platform, neither stands out. It’s mostly about which one looks better in your eyes; the Yukon has an aggressive bold look, while the Tahoe has a sportier look. But note that the Yukon is available in the Denali Ultimate trim, which brings its luxury—and price tag—to a whole different level.
Do Escalades Hold Their Value
Despite its popularity, the Escalade is one of the fastest depreciating SUVs in the market. It loses around 39 percent of its value after five years. Meanwhile, the GMC Yukon Denali is slightly better, it loses around 35 percent of its value after five years. Note that the long wheelbase versions of both SUVs lose more value after five years, so keep that in mind.
Is A Denali Worth The Money
Judging from the engine and features, a Yukon Denali is worth the money. Its interior is not quite as luxurious as the Escalade, but it has plenty of equipment and safety features as standard. If you’re not looking for the bling, the Yukon Denali is perfect for large families.
Which Is More Luxurious GMC Or Chevy
At a glance, they compete in a similar segment. But GMC is seen as the more upscale brand. This is mostly because GMC’s cars can get more expensive than Chevy’s. For example, the Yukon and Tahoe start at the same $50,000 price bracket. But you can spec the Yukon up to nearly six digits, whereas the Tahoe tops out at about $75,000.
Yukon Denali vs Escalade: Alternatives
The full-size luxury SUV is a lucrative segment. So, naturally, there is a lot of competition here to confuse you even further. Again, skip to the last section if you’re only interested in the Yukon Denali vs Escalade. But if you want to know more about this segment, here are the other options:
1. The Third Child: Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban
To further complicate your buying decision, there’s also the Chevy Tahoe and the Chevy Suburban (the long-wheelbase version). Chevy is also under General Motors ownership, so of course, they’re going to build their full-size SUV based on the same platform as the Yukon and Escalade.
It’s particularly hard to decide between the Tahoe and the Yukon. Both start in the $50,000 bracket and the top ‘High Country’ Tahoe is around $75,000—the same price bracket as the Denali.
Of course, with the Yukon you can go all the way up to the Denali Ultimate trim, giving you more features as standard. But it’s hard to see the point when the ‘High Country’ Tahoe already offers a lot of features and luxury.
We think the biggest difference between the Yukon and the Tahoe is simply in the exterior design. While they share the same platform, there are noticeable differences in the way they look. Watch the video above to understand more.
2. The Euro Options
They’re both shorter than the American offerings, hence why they’re technically not direct competitors. The BMW X7 measures 209 inches long, while the long wheelbase (LWB) Range Rover is 207 inches long, and the short wheelbase (SWB) version is just 199 inches long.
However, they’re all available with third-row seating. So, you can still fit a lot of people in the car. Of course, the cargo space of the Europeans isn’t great if you have third-row seating.
The thing is, they’re much easier to choose from and have a clear selling point. The BMW X7 has unrivaled driving dynamics on the road. Despite its size, it still feels uniquely BMW to drive.
Meanwhile, the Range Rover is, well, a Range Rover. Practically synonymous with luxury offroading. And while it doesn’t have the “bling” factor of the Escalade, the Range Rover is still a status symbol; a statement of wealth and opulence.
Honestly, at this price point, you can’t go wrong with any of the SUVs we’ve discussed. But if you can’t decide, and you don’t want to spend any more time researching, just get a Range Rover.
Powertrains and Specs
No big changes will happen under the hood of the 2023 GMC Yukon. Engineers trust the lineup of large V8 petrol engines. Still, in the foreseeable future, we might see a switch to the turbocharged V6 plants for the full-size SUV lineup. That is something Ford did a long time ago, and now Toyota also launched the I-Force drivetrain. Speculations say that Nissan is also preparing smaller blocks for its future big rigs.
A 5.3-liter engine is an entry-level option. It cracks 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. Part of the Denali package is a 6.2-liter unit with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. You can also optionally upgrade some other packages with massive power outputs. A 10-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear or all wheels. The maximum towing capacity of the SUV is 8,400 pounds.
2023 GMC Yukon Diesel
A 3.0-liter Duramax engine is also one of the available options for the 2023 GMC Yukon. Interesting, the company made it an optional upgrade for the high-end packages. Experts recommend a combination of the oil burner and AT4 upgrades. It makes the Yukon almost unstoppable. The engine delivers 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. This configuration increases the maximum towing capacity to 9,300 pounds, making the Yukon one of the best haulers in the full-size SUV segment.
Exterior Design: Where The Yukon Differs From The Tahoe The Most
via GMC
The exterior design is arguably the biggest differentiator in choosing between the Yukon and the Tahoe. With the complete design changes both SUVs received for 2021, GM has tried to give them modern yet distinguishable looks.
The Chevy Tahoe, though it features a broader front grille, offers a friendlier look. Thanks to its large and menacing headlights, the GMC Yukon looks scarier than ever. Both cars feature modern design aesthetics. However, we believe the Yukon delivers a more attractive face by hair.
The same story applies to the rear design. Different taillights featured in the Tahoe and the Yukon convey different styles, and we like the Yukon’s taillights better, but it’s just a matter of taste.
The side view, however, is nearly identical in both vehicles.
Next Gen Yukon
We are here to guide you in the proper direction. Therefore, The Blue Oval Company is working diligently to increase production of the F-150 Lightning; shortly, three times as many will be available. In 2025, the Fisker Alaska will be available for an estimated price of $45,000, making it a very alluring option.
According to rumors, Ram is assiduously working on updating the 2025 model year 1500 pickup trucks with many new features and a new Tungsten model powered by a 510-hp Hurricane 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine. In addition, they must hurry, as Ford is anxious to update the 2024 F-150 best-seller.
GM is still struggling to scale up production of Ultium-based models, which is why the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV are not available in dealerships. On the other hand, murmurs throughout the rumor mill indicate that their truck-based full-size SUVs will receive a welcome mid-cycle facelift.
Moreover, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are en route to receive enhancements, and the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL will likely follow shortly. However, the imaginative domain of digital car content creators is currently focused on the 2024 or 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe and/or GMC Yukon.
The good people over at the AutoYa information channel on YouTube have already discussed the potential exterior and interior updates to the Chevrolet Tahoe. In addition, they featured an unofficial video presentation of the GMC Yukon sibling’s redesign, replete with as many opulent color options as possible.
The crew also has a satellite venue called AutoYa Interior, where all the (CGI) action takes place when speaking from the inside out. As a result, the host discussed the potential cabin upgrades, including a new climate control unit, a nicer steering wheel, and the possible debut of a 12-inch infotainment screen.
Even better, the resident pixel master displayed all of these highlighted changes, including the best idea they had: the GMC Yukon could receive a radical, portrait-oriented screen similar to the GMC Sierra EV, or it could feature an entirely new dashboard with dual screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment interface.
People also ask GMC Yukon 2024
Q: What are the changes in the Yukon in 2024?
A: In addition to a redesigned interior, the new SUV will feature a redesigned exterior with new wheel options, illumination elements, a new roof antenna, and a new exhaust system. In addition, the new 3.0L I6 LZ0 turbodiesel Duramax engine will supplant the current 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel.
Q: How much is a brand new 2023 Yukon Denali?
A: The 2023 GMC Yukon’s base price is $57,400, while the Denali Ultimate’s base price is $96,755. On grades where 4WD is optional (SLE, SLT, Denali), it costs an additional $3,000. In every configuration, the long-wheelbase Yukon XL costs $2,700 more than the standard wheelbase.
Q: How many miles per gallon does a 2023 Yukon Denali diesel get?
A: As expected, the turbo-diesel engine is more fuel-efficient, achieving up to 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the motorway. On our highway fuel-economy test route at 75 miles per hour, our Denali test vehicle achieved 20 mpg.
References[]
- «1996 Tahoe — History». GM Media Archives. Retrieved on 2009-10-25.
- «Car Insurance rates news». Online Car Insurance News. Retrieved on 2010-01-13.
- ↑ «Группа компаний Автотор :: Автомобили GM». Avtotor.ru. Retrieved on 2010-10-05. (Russian)
- http://web.archive.org/web/20120306204712/http://www.avtotor.ru/upload/pictures/gm2009.jpg
- «Full-size hybrids? GM’s got ’em» from Statesman.com
- «2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid» from GM.com
- «2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid» from gmautobuilder.com
- «2010 Tahoe Hybrid SUV». Chevrolet.com. Retrieved on 2010-04-10.
- Despite Negative Ads, Chevy Declares Viral Video Campaign a Success, Media Buyer Planner, 2006-04-04
- Commercial Break, from Wired News, 2006-12-04
- «38-45 Tahoe 4WD» (PDF). Retrieved on 2010-10-05.
- «27-37 Tahoe 2WD» (PDF). Retrieved on 2010-10-05.
- «mediaOnline». Media.gm.com (2000-01-05). Retrieved on 2009-07-19.[dead link]
- «mediaOnline». Media.gm.com (2002-01-03). Retrieved on 2009-07-19.[dead link]
- «GM Media Online». Media.gm.com (2004-01-05). Retrieved on 2009-08-07.[dead link]
- «GM Reports December 2005 and Year Results». Theautochannel.com (2006-01-05). Retrieved on 2009-06-01.
- «GM Media Online». Media.gm.com (2007-01-03). Retrieved on 2009-06-01.[dead link]
- «GM Media Online». Media.gm.com (2009-01-05). Retrieved on 2009-06-01.[dead link]
- http://media.gm.com/content/Pages/news/us/en/2010/Jan/0105_Dec_Sales/_jcr_content/iconrow/textfile/file.res/Deliveries%20December%2009.xls
- http://media.gm.com/content/dam/Media/gmcom/investor/2011/DeliveriesDecember2010.pdf
Platform And Interior Space: Enough Room For Everyone
Via GMC
GM uses its newest T1 truck platform to manufacture the Yukon and the Tahoe. This platform that previously was featured in the Chevy Silverado and the GMC Sierra allows for extra interior space in both SUVs compared to their previous-gen models.
The Yukon and the Tahoe are about six to seven inches longer than their previous generation, thanks to the expanded platform. This increase in length exhibits itself in better legroom for passengers in the second and third rows.
Via Chevrolet
When it comes to interior design, the layouts are nearly identical inside the two, with the main differences being color schemes, materials, and the badge on the steering wheel. However, GMC offers a higher-end trim for the Yukon called Denali, which features a different dashboard layout and a lot of wood and leather that radiates a sense of luxury.
Almost all optional features, such as driver-assist features, air suspensions, and active grille shutters, are available for both the GMC Yukon and the Chevy Tahoe.
GMC Yukon Denali[]
Further information: GMC Denali
The GMC Denali nameplate started as the luxury version of the Yukon for the 1998 model year. The Denali trim is as in the GMC Envoy available on both standard and XL versions.
1999
GMT400 GMC Yukon Denali
In 1998, at the time of its introduction, the Yukon Denali was GM’s answer to the Lincoln Navigator, but then GM introduced a clone to the Yukon Denali and rebadged it «Escalade» under the Cadillac nameplate. The Yukon Denali’s exterior was shared with the Cadillac Escalade, with the entire front clip and lower side body panels differing from the standard Yukon. In the interior, however, the Denali features luxury options not available in the Yukon. These included an upgraded leather interior, power seats, heated seats front and rear, Bose stereo system, and some woodgrain on the dashboard.
2001
GMT800 GMC Yukon Denali
Even though the Yukon was redesigned alongside the Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe in 2000, the Denali and Escalade retained their 1990s base design. It was not until 2001 that the Denali and Escalade were redesigned. While the Escalade departed from its Yukon based exterior design scheme in attempt to hide its roots, the Yukon Denali’s exterior is almost the same as that of a post-2000 GMT400 model year Yukon. Embossed side body panels and slightly reworked headlights with projector-beam lenses along with 17″ polished wheels and different grille and front bumper differentiate the Yukon Denali from the regular Yukon. 2001 also saw the introduction of the billet grille which now has become the hallmark of the Denali nameplate.
2007
2011 GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid
The Yukon Denali was redesigned for the 2007 model year alongside the regular mainstream Yukon. The biggest change was in the styling, such as the flattened tailgate reminiscent of the new Tahoe, and particularly the grill and headlight shapes, which made the Yukon look less aggressive than previous models. The only exterior difference between the Yukon Denali and the standard Yukon are the chrome grille and extensive use of chrome accents; and of course the insignias, embeveled rockerpanels, chromed headlights and the Vortec 6200 engine which it shares with the Cadillac Escalade.
2024 GMC Yukon Safety
The 2024 GMC Yukon only receives a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, which is concerning given that most vehicles, such as the Ford Expedition, receive a five-star rating. Although the GMC’s side crash rating is five stars, its frontal collision rating is four stars and its rollover rating is three stars.
However, only automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and parking sensors are included as standard equipment. Adaptive cruise control is optional on the Denali. Super Cruise is the finest semi-autonomous technology that GM has to offer. It is available on the Denali Ultimate.
Police package[]
GMT800 Chevrolet Tahoe Police package
GMT900 Chevrolet Tahoe Police Package
In North America, the Tahoe is used by many law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and EMS agencies. Chevrolet currently offers two versions of the police package Tahoe; a four-wheel drive version and a two-wheel drive version.
Chevrolet refers to the four-wheel drive (4WD) version as «Special Service Vehicle» (SSV). This version of the Tahoe can be used for all purposes except pursuits and high speed responses due to its high center of gravity, thus having a higher probability of rolling-over at high speeds. This version is preferred by agencies where snow, ice, flooding, rough terrain, and ground clearance are common issues.
Chevrolet refers to the two-wheel drive (2WD) version — also known as the rear-wheel drive (RWD) version — as «Police Pursuit Vehicle» (PPV). This version of the Tahoe can be used for all purposes including pursuits and high speed responses. The center of gravity in this vehicle is lower than that of the four-wheel drive version and the ground clearance is about one inch less. Highway patrol agencies prefer the two-wheel drive version, where pursuits and long distance responses are more common. It should be noted that the two-wheel drive version of the Tahoe is the only pursuit-rated SUV on the market today.
2023 GMC Yukon AT4x and Denali Ultimate
From there on, you can pick either a luxury model or an off-road specialist. The 2023 Yukon AT4x carries over most of the configuration from its predecessor. Still, the company changes the setup a bit, to make the full-size SUV more capable of driving in the toughest terrains. For example, the AT4x comes with Multimatic DSSV dampers and rear electronic locking differentials, compared to Rancho twin-tube shocks and G80 locking differential.
Like with AT4x and AT4, the Ultimate version of the Denali model will change the luxury package a bit. A front grille now features a unique Vader chrome and GMC badge. Plus, the carmaker brings new wheels with low gloss black finishes. The rest of the package is pretty much the same. The Technology package is included, as well as the Bose audio with 14 speakers, and buckets in the middle row (7-seat layout).
2023 GMC Yukon XL
Like most American full-size SUVs, there is a long-wheelbase version of the vehicle. The 2023 GMC Yukon XL extends the body, making more room in the back. It is a twin of the Chevy Suburban and the rival to the Ford Expedition Max. We can also mention the LWB models of Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Jeep Wagoneer. Japanese carmakers are not so keen on such upgrades.
The GMC Yukon And The Chevy Tahoe Share The Same Engine Options
Via Chevrolet
The GMC Yukon and its cousin, the Chevy Tahoe, come with three different engine options. For starters, a 5.3L V8 capable of outputting 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque comes as the base engine for both SUVs.
If you’re looking for something more powerful, GM offers a potent 6.2L V8 engine for both vehicles that boast as much as 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
New for the 2021 models, a turbocharged diesel engine is available that first appeared under the Chevy Silverado’s Hood. This 3.0L inline-six outputs 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
Both cars use the aid of the same 10-speed automatic transmission system to move the engine power to the wheels.
Although the engines are identical on the two, the GMC Yukon offers a more sophisticated drive system. The Active Response 4WD system helps the Yukon manage traction and power distribution based on driving conditions. So if you’re looking forward to taking your large SUV off-road, the GMC Yukon’s off-road-oriented trims might be better options than what Chevy offers to the market.
Another exciting performance upgrade in both the Yukon and the Tahoe is their brand-new independent rear suspension, which enhances handling.
2024 GMC Yukon Refresh
General Motors unveiled the fifth-generation GMC Yukon for the 2021 model year, embarking on a complete model overhaul that redesigns every aspect of the SUV’s nameplate. Now, General Motors is working on the 2024 GMC Yukon, which is set to usher in a model refresh, and GM Authority has the first photos to capture the public testing of the 2024 GMC Yukon prototype.
This particular 2024 GMC Yukon prototype is a standard-length regular wheelbase body style, as opposed to the extended GMC Yukon XL. The prototype is covered in thick camouflage front and rear, suggesting that the 2024 model will introduce stylistic revisions to the front and rear fascia.
This particular model is also likely an SLE trim, as it is seen rolling on a set of 18-inch 6-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with Dark Gray Metallic accents, which are equipped as standard on the SLE.
However, beyond the exterior styling, the big news for the updated 2024 GMC Yukon is the possibility of introducing a new autonomous driving feature, possibly the GM Ultra Cruise system. For those who may have missed it last year, GM Authority captured a GMC Yukon outfitted with various sensors and other stuff testing around GM’s Milford Proving Grounds in Michigan, indicating that the SUV is part of GM’s development for the next-generation semi. autonomous driving system.
As an evolution of the current GM Super Cruise system, Ultra Cruise expands hands-free driving to include 95 percent of driving scenarios, enabling a “door-to-door hands-free driving experience.”
For now, the 2021 GMC Yukon doesn’t currently offer a Super Cruise, at least not yet. The 2024 GMC Yukon could introduce a Super Cruise or Ultra Cruise to the nameplate, and the prototype seen here includes an opening in the camo for a potential driving-assist sensor.
It’s also worth noting that the refresh for the current fifth-generation 2024 GMC Yukon will mark a significant departure in strategy from previous K2-based models, the latter of which did not receive a refresh during their lifecycle, having launched for the 2015 model year and being produced through the 2020 model year.
As for the fifth generation, sales of the GMC Yukon have reached their peak. Yukon Regular sales in 2021 reached 51,365 units, up 25.39 percent from 40,965 units sold in 2020. Meanwhile, Yukon XL sales last year were 32,877 units, an increase of 46.28 percent compared to 22,475 units sold in 2020. Total Yukon sales reached 84,242 units, up 32.79 percent compared to 2020 sales of 63,440 units.