Today’s automotive landscape is dominated by lightweight, fuel efficient crossover vehicles. Part car, part SUV, a little station wagon, with a dash of hatchback, the crossover is everything and sometimes not enough. The U in SUV can be hard to find when there is less cargo space than a hot hatch or towing is limited to a bike rack or excluded altogether.
Cue the full-size body-on-frame SUV. Rugged and ready, vehicles like the new 2021 GMC Yukon Denali provide comfortable seating for up to eight. Even with all the seats in place, the Denali still provides more than 25 cubic feet of cargo space AND it can tow up to 8,400 lbs when properly equipped. That might actually warrant the use of the term SUUUV. Though we doubt it will catch on.
Denali Stands for Luxury
Introduced on the 1999 Yukon, “Denali” is GMC’s premium luxury sub-brand. Denali’s elevated design and craftsmanship have helped lure more than 60 percent of Yukon buyers to the upscale models. We are unabashed fans to the Yukon Denali’s upscale accommodations. The attention to detail, choice of materials and overall fit and finish rival anything in the full-size luxury SUV segment, especially at the price.
The 2021 model marks the first time that Denali models have an entirely exclusive interior. Highlights include a new instrument panel, unique seating and a choice of four unique color themes. Each theme includes authentic wood trim. Additionally, the Denali’s leather surfaces are cut and stitched by hand.
Of note is the Denali’s new “Power Sliding Center Console.” The main console between the driver and passenger seats can slide back up to 10 inches, offering a convenient expanded storage area. When slid back the console reveals access to a space large enough for a handbag. An additional hidden drawer underneath the main storage bin provides a secure location for valuables.
Yukon’s second and third rows provide comfortable seating for children and adults. Getting in and out is relatively easy. Storage space is also abundant. GMC’s Yukon is one of the best examples of “family-friendly” that we’ve ever reviewed.
Evidently “Denali” also means Power and Driving Dynamics
Our Yukon Denali’s 6.2-liter V8 engine creates 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The engine features fuel-saving technologies including stop/start and “Dynamic Fuel Management” that automatically tells the engine to operate on two to eight cylinders depending on driving conditions to optimize power and efficiency.
The capable V8 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission operated by a push-button gear selector. Together they form a dynamic duo: the Yukon is fast. Shifts are intuitive and driving dynamics are completely satisfying.
GM’s fabulous “Magnetic Ride Control” works to balance and enhance the massive SUV’s handling capabilities. The system has been continually perfected over the years and is now one of the fastest-reacting damping systems in the industry, reacting much faster than traditional shock absorbers. The effect reduces bouncing, body roll and the vibrations often associated with a true “body-on-frame” SUV.
Fuel economy with the V8 is rated at 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined.
Technology and Extras
GMC’s attractive and intuitive infotainment is controlled by a 10.2-inch touchscreen. The system incorporates Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, an extra we’ve grown to appreciate as of late. Additional features included on our review vehicle were power-retractable side steps, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control and a long list of active safety tech. Highlights include a 360-degree camera system, rear camera mirror, a spectacular color heads-up display, an in-vehicle trailering app and dual 12.6-inch rear-seat entertainment touchscreens.
Pricing
The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali starts at $71,400. Our fully-loaded test vehicle costs $83,795. Both numbers may present sticker shock if you haven’t visited a new vehicle dealer in the last few years, but as those who’ve shopped the competition know, the Yukon Denali represents great value in the full-size luxury SUV segment.
