The all-new 2021 GMC Yukon represents a huge change for the division flagship SUV that features a complete lineup topped by the ultra-luxury Denali trim. This body-on-frame full-size SUV features a choice of rear- and 4-wheel drive setups, two V8s and an inline-6 turbodiesel, and two wheelbases, standard and the stretch XL.
In addition to the bolder styling, the beneath-the-skins changes are significant with the switch to an independent rear suspension. The results of this redesign are twofold, the first is a big improvement in ride quality, and the second, increased passenger space and cargo in the third-row space.
The standard powerplant is a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8. The step-up V8 in the Denali trim is a more powerful 6.2-liter engine making 420 horsepower. An alternative is the 3.0-liter inline-6 turbodiesel that’s rated at 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. That’s the same as the 6.2 V8, but it comes on at a much lower 1,500 rpm making it ideal for towing. The diesel also returns higher fuel economy with a 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway score compared to the top V8’s 15 city/20 highway mpg in rear-drive configurations.
Four Trim Levels
The GMC Yukon is available in SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali trim levels. Pricing starts at $51,995k and tops out at $72,695 for a 2021 GMC Yukon Denali XL. All-wheel drive is a $3,000 option on all models except the AT4, which offers it as standard equipment. XL models are also about $3,000 more than their standard-wheelbase counterparts. The turbodiesel is a $995 option over the 5.3-liter V8 in SLE and SLT, but on the Denali, it saves $1,500 over the standard 6.2-liter V8. Destination charges are $1,295.
The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali standard-wheelbase model is particularly attractive for its roster of features beyond the 6.2-liter V8. It includes the magnetic ride control which gives it luxury car comfort, a surround-view camera, 15-inch full-color head-up display (HUD), and rear pedestrian alert.
Here’s the complete rundown on 2021 GMC Sierra Yukon trims:
2021 GMC Yukon SLE: $51,995-$57,995
- 10-way-power driver seat
- Cruise control
- Forward-collision warning w/pedestrian detection
- Front & rear parking cameras
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
2021 GMC Yukon SLT: $59,095-$62,095
- Perforated leather seat upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats w/auto. temp control
- 20-inch 6-spoke alloy wheels
- Wireless smartphone charging
- 9-speaker Bose audio system
- 2WD or 4WD
2021 GMC Yukon AT4: $66,095-$68,795
- 4WD w/2-speed transfer case
- Traction Select w/off-road mode
- 20-inch all-terrain tires
- Heated & ventilated seats
- Heated steering wheel
2021 GMC Yukon Denali: $68,195-$72,695
- 6.2-liter V8
- High-definition surround-vision camera
- 15-inch color head-up display
- Magnetic Ride Control
- Rear pedestrian alert
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