Returning as both Yukon and Yukon XL models – that’s short and long-wheelbase – the new trucks promise more comfort and refinement than before, plus segment-leading fuel economy. Once again, GMC will also offer its premium Denali package with unique engines and an upgraded interior on both Yukons.
The Yukons remain kissing cousins to Chevrolet’s all-new 2015 Tahoe and Suburban.�
The goods
Underneath, both trucks are closely related to the automaker’s new-for-2014 full-size pickup trucks, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, which means they continue to ride on a separate fully boxed ladder frame composed of 75 percent high-strength steel and mounted to the steel body by new sheer-style mounts. Though that frame makes the trucks sound old school, it helps differentiate them from the automaker’s more casual-duty GMC Acadia. As a result, the Yukon will be rated to tow up to 8,500 lbs. (or 8,300 lbs. with 4×4), while the 20.4-inch longer Yukon XL is capable of hauling 8,300 lbs. (or 8,000 lbs. with 4×4).
Both 4×2 and 4×4 models return, and while the new V8 engines boast similar displacement to their predecessors, they offer more power and will, presumably, be more fuel efficient. GM hasn’t released fuel economy numbers yet, but the automaker said that the Yukon/Yukon XL’s 5.3-liter V8 will be rated at 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft. of torque, while the range-topping Denalis step up to a 6.2-liter V8 rated at 420 ponies and 450 lb-ft. of torque. Regardless of engine, a six-speed automatic transmission will be standard.
Both engines feature direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing to reduce fuel consumption and improve power delivery.
GM is also including an automatic locking rear differential as standard equipment, while other upgrades like wider wheels, DuraLife disc brakes and a wider rear track should improve the vehicles’ utility. Notably, the Denali models also include a magnetic ride control to deliver a more premium ride quality.
New style
Both trucks are evolutionary rather than revolutionary in the styling department – at least outside. Sharing little in common with their pickup siblings (and only a side profile with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban), they feature headlamps more in tune with GMC’s current styling direction, plus a more striking side profile.
To set Denali models apart further, the upmarket models will feature LED running lamps up front and LED tail lamps, as well as HID headlamps.
Inside, however, the trucks make their biggest leap. No longer sharing a dashboard with the pickups, they get a more car-like setup with more upmarket materials than before. A Bose audio system with a touchscreen head unit is standard for all Yukons, while the Denali also includes a noise-cancelling system to quell undue ambient rumble.
Aiding passenger convenience, the new trucks feature fold-flat second and third-row seats plus about two inches of increased rear-seat legroom regardless of wheelbase.
GMC will offer more safety features than before, including forward collision alert, front parking assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and front/rear automatic braking. In addition, the automaker’s Safety Alert seat, which vibrates individual sides of the seat base to alert drivers to impending crash threats, will be available.
Keyless entry and push-button start are newly available for 2015 as well.
GMC says to expect the Arlington, Texas-built 2015s to arrive in the first quarter of 2014.
Live photos by David Goodspeed.<![CDATA[
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