2001 GMC Yukon/Denali: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Yukon is GMC's version of the Chevrolet Tahoe, while the longer Yukon XL is companion to the Chevy Suburban. GMC also has luxury versions called Denali, which is similar to Cadillac's Escalade, and Denali XL. Yukon XL comes in half-ton 1500- and three-quarter-ton 2500-series models; the others are 1500-series trucks. Yukons offer side-opening rear cargo doors as an alternative to the aluminum liftgate. Front bucket seats are standard on Denali and optional on Yukon in place of a front bench. XL models offer 2nd-row bucket seats. A 3rd-row bench seat is standard on XLs and Denalis, optional on regular Yukons. All have front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.

A 4.8-liter V8 is standard on Yukon. A 5.3 V8 is standard on Yukon XL and optional on Yukon. Both Denalis and the Yukon XL 2500 come with a 6.0-liter V8. An 8.1-liter V8 is optional for the Yukon XL 2500. All have automatic transmission with GM's Tow/Haul mode. Towing capacity is 8700 lbs with the 5.3 V8, 12,000 with the 8.1. Yukons have rear-wheel drive or General Motors' Autotrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Denalis have all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. A limited-slip rear differential and traction control are available for 2WD Yukons. GM's OnStar assistance system is also available. Performance and accommodations mirror those of like-equipped Tahoes and Suburbans.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs. The GM models get the nod in overall ratings, but shop and compare both before you buy.

For a few more bucks you can get the Recommended Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV.