2005 GMC Yukon and Denali: Road Test
2005 GMC Yukon and Denali ▼
- MSRP: $36,405 - $51,935
- Invoice: $31,854 - $45,443
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Our road test for the 2005 GMC Yukon and Denali includes a full evaluation of the 2005 GMC Yukon and Denali from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 GMC Yukon and Denali, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 GMC Yukon and Denali help you decide if a 2005 GMC Yukon and Denali is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 4.8 |
Always adequate, though 4.8 V8 feels taxed with heavy cargo or towing loads. Automatic transmission a model of smooth, alert shifting. No opportunity to test XL 2500. Maximum towing capacities with largest available engines: 7800 lb for Yukon 1500, 12,000 lb for Yukon XL 2500, 8100 lb for Denali.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 1 | 2.1 |
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 '04 Denali XL with 325 hp averaged just 9.8 mpg. All engines use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
Base suspension is more controlled and absorbent than the available Autoride system, which is standard for Denalis. No opportunity yet to test Denali with 20-inch wheels. Yukon's available off-road package rides stiffly, so try before buying.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 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. 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. Credit GM for making the antiskid system standard on all Yukon and Denali models. Stopping power good, with firm, progressive pedal movement.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Wind rush not intrusive. Tire noise audible at highway speeds, but moderate for large SUVs. Full throttle brings on engine roar, but these V8s are smooth runners.
CONTROLS
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
User friendly, with legible gauges and intuitive controls all placed reasonably close. GM lags Ford and Toyota in not offering side curtain airbags in its big SUVs; charging extra for front side airbags in Yukons is a further demerit. Navigation/audio combo a sensible idea, relatively easy to use. Fabrics, plastics midquality at best even in higher-priced, leather-upholstered Denalis.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 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)
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
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; available running boards help. Rear doors' narrow lower openings hamper ingress/egress, especially on regular-length models.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 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
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 4 | 6.7 |
Yukon and Yukon XL offer fine value 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. That's why our Recommended label applies primarily to the Yukon versions.
Total Score
| 2WD Yukon, 4.8 V8 | 4WD Yukon XL, 5.3 V8 | Denali | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | 62 | 59 | 58.6 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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