2003 GMC Yukon/Denali: Road Test
2003 GMC Yukon/Denali ▼
- MSRP: $34,910 - $50,960
- Invoice: $30,546 - $44,590
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Our road test for the 2003 GMC Yukon/Denali includes a full evaluation of the 2003 GMC Yukon/Denali from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 GMC Yukon/Denali, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 GMC Yukon/Denali help you decide if a 2003 GMC Yukon/Denali is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 4.1 |
Always adequate, though 4.8 V8 feels taxed under heavy cargo or towing loads. Automatic transmission is a model of smooth, alert shifting. Maximum towing capacities with largest available engines: 8100 lb for Yukon 1500s, 12,000 for Yukon XL 2500s, 8200 lb for all Denalis.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
In our tests, a Tahoe averaged 12.2 mpg, a Suburban 11.5; both were 5.3-liter 4x4s. Comparable GMCs will do the same. Test Denali XL with standard 6.0 averaged just 9.8 mpg. All engines use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.8 |
Base suspension is more controlled and absorbent than the optional Autoride system, which is standard for Denalis. Yukon 4x4's available Z71 off-road package rides stiffly, so try before buying.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 | 3.1 |
No big SUV handles like a car, but these GMCs are competent for their size and mass. Base suspension outshines the Autoride setup, but steering lacks good feel either way. Parking is no treat in any jumbo SUV, but Quadrasteer dramatically improves maneuverability of GM's big pickups and will do the same for XL 2500s, though we'd like it optional linewide. We recommend the antiskid system for added control; credit GM with making it standard on Denali. Stopping power is good, with firm, progressive pedal movement.
QUIETNESS
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Wind rush not intrusive. Tire noise audible at highway speeds, but moderate for full-size SUVs. Full throttle brings on engine roar, but these V8s are smooth runners.
CONTROLS
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
User-friendly, with legible, well-placed gauges and intuitive controls that are reasonably close to driver. GM lags Ford and Toyota in not offering side curtain airbags in its big SUVs, and making buyers pay extra for front side airbags in Yukons is a further demerit. Vinyl surfaces and molded plastics are at odds with GMC's "professional grade" mantra even in higher-priced, leather-upholstered Denalis.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.6 |
Stretch-out space on wide, supportive seats. Drivers have commanding view, but some nearby objects can't be seen from on high, and no obstacle-detection system is available. Standard heated seats are among Denali comforts.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.3 |
Denalis also include heated seats in 2nd row, where all models have space aplenty. XLs offer adult-size room in 3rd row, but only kids will be happy there in other models. Lower step-in than Ford Expedition and Excursion, but higher than typical minivan; running boards help. Rear doors' exceptionally narrow lower openings hamper ingress/egress, especially on regular-length models.
CARGO ROOM
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
XLs take fair-size loads behind their 3rd-row seat. Regulars have little more than grocery space, but their 50/50 split seat is more versatile than the XLs' one-piece bench--and also easier to remove or install.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 4 | 6.9 |
Yukon and Yukon XL offer fine value in base form and most of the sensible luxury options anyone could want. Denalis mix those basic virtues with more standard power and extra amenities, but not enough of either to warrant their higher prices.
Total Score
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | 64 | 60 | 58.8 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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