2000-2006 GMC Yukon/Denali: Overview

Updated: 12/17/09

2001 GMC Yukon
2006 GMC Yukon and Denali
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2000-2006 GMC Yukon/Denali 

  • Price Range:  $4,700 - $21,600
CG Rating

59

out of 100

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Pros

  • Acceleration (Denali)
  • Passenger and cargo room
  • Trailer-towing capacity

Cons

  • Entry/exit (Denali)
  • Fuel economy
  • Steering feel

Vehicle Highlights

GMC's Yukon again was largely a retrimmed rendition of the Chevrolet Tahoe. Instead of calling its longer model the Suburban, as before--and as Chevrolet continued to do--GMC switched to the Yukon XL designation. All models were 4-door wagons, about an inch shorter in wheelbase and overall length than their predecessors, but 2 inches wider, 2 inches taller, and some 300 pounds lighter. Both came with either side-opening rear cargo doors or a new aluminum liftgate with an independent-opening glass hatch. Yukons came only in one capacity rating, but Yukon XLs were offered in half-ton 1500 and 3/4-ton 2500 versions. Front side airbags were newly standard. The previous 5.7-liter V8 gave way to a trio of V8s: 4.8, 5.3 and 6.0 liters in displacement. Yukons had the 4.8-liter as standard equipment, with the 5.3 V8 optional. The 5.3-liter V8 was standard in the Yukon XL, with the 6.0-liter as an option. That bigger engine went into all Yukon XL 2500 wagons. Each model had a 4-speed automatic transmission, with GM's Tow/Haul mode that adjusted shift points to accommodate heavy loads or pull a trailer. All came with either rear-drive or GM's Autotrac 4-wheel-drive system, with an "Auto 4WD" mode that could be used on dry pavement. All had 4-wheel antilock braking. Newly available features included traction control, automatic climate control, a power sunroof, rear audio controls, and a self-leveling rear suspension. Second-row reclining bucket seats and GM's OnStar emergency/communications system were offered for the Yukon XL.

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Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)

Category GMC Yukon XL Rating
Performance 4
Fuel Economy 2
Ride Quality 7
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 6
Controls/Materials 7
Interior Room 9
Room/Comfort (rear) 8
Cargo Capacity 9
Value within Class 4
Total Score: 59

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