2004 GMC Yukon/Denali: Road Test
2004 GMC Yukon/Denali ▼
- MSRP: $35,460 - $51,510
- Invoice: $31,028 - $45,071
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Our road test for the 2004 GMC Yukon/Denali includes a full evaluation of the 2004 GMC Yukon/Denali from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 GMC Yukon/Denali, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 GMC Yukon/Denali help you decide if a 2004 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 | 4.3 |
Always adequate, though 4.8 V8 feels taxed under heavy cargo or towing loads. Automatic transmission a model of smooth, alert shifting. Maximum towing capacities with largest available engines: 8100 lb for Yukon 1500, 12,000 for Yukon XL 2500, 8200 lb for Denali.
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 had 4WD and 5.3 V8. Comparable GMCs do the same. Test 6.0 Denali XL averaged 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 | 5.2 |
Base suspension is more controlled and absorbent than the optional Autoride system, which is standard for Denalis. Yukon'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 | 3.2 |
No big SUV handles like a car, but these GMCs are competent for their size and mass. Base suspension outshines Autoride, but steering lacks good feel either way. Parking no treat in any jumbo SUV, but Quadrasteer dramatically improves maneuverability of XL 2500s, though we'd like it optional linewide. We recommend the antiskid system for added control; credit GM for making it standard on Denali. Stopping power good, with firm, progressive pedal movement.
QUIETNESS
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
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 | 6.2 |
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. Navigation/audio combo a sensible mating of map screen, navigation functions, and radio controls for relative ease of use. 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 | 8.7 |
Stretch-out space on wide, supportive seats. Drivers have commanding view, but some nearby objects can't be seen, and no obstacle-detection system available. Standard heated seats among Denali comforts.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Yukon 2WD, 4.8 V8 | Yukon XL 4WD, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
All models have space aplenty in 2nd row, and Denali includes heated seats. 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' 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 | 8.8 |
XLs take fair-size loads behind 3rd-row seat. Regulars have little more than grocery space, but their 50/50 split seat is more versatile than 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 | 6.6 |
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 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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