2021 GMC Yukon adds features for improved ride, comfort, capability - Detroit Free Press

Mark Phelan Detroit Free Press

Published 5:00 PM EST Jan 14, 2020

New features for comfort and capability will significantly increase the differences between the new 2021 Yukon large SUV and the less expensive Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban when the vehicles go on sale this summer.

Among the big differences:

Top-of-the-line Denali models of the Yukon and Yukon XL will have a unique dashboard including a flush-fitted touchscreen
Four-wheel-drive Denali and AT4 Yukons get an electric limited slip differential to improve traction in challenging terrain.
An optional power-sliding center console provides great flexibility and more storage for items like purses, phones, laptops and drinks.
Unique lights, hood, fenders and tailgate to increase visual differences between GMC and Chevy’s large SUVs.

GMC vehicles command higher prices than Chevrolets, but the brands traditionally weren’t all the different. With the new Yukon’s looks and features, General Motors’ is working to increase differentiation to maintain and improve GMC’s reputation for offering something more.

Like the Chevys, the Yukon and Yukon XL grow larger to offer more passenger and luggage room. The Yukon’s wheelbase increases 5 inches. Overall length is up 6.1 inches. The bigger Yukon XL’s wheelbase increases 4.1 inches, while overall length grows 0.9 inch.

The Yukon and Yukon XL have three rows of seats and seat up to eight people.

The new SUVs switch to an independent rear suspension, a rear-wheel layout that increases luggage space and rear legroom because it intrudes less on the passenger cabin than the old suspension.

Called IRS, it should also lead to a smoother ride and better handling.

Denali and AT4 lead the way

Denali accounts for a whopping 60% of Yukon sales, making the big SUV one of GM’s most profitable vehicles.

“Yukon was the model in which Denali originated in 1999, and now more than 20 years later we’re introducing the quintessential Denali,” GMC and Buick design director Helen Emsley said. “It delivers a first-class experience with an all-new exclusive interior and a bolder, more exclusive exterior design.”

Denali interiors get open-pore wood and materials and colors not available on other models.

GMC will also offer its new AT4 outdoor-themed model on the Yukon. AT4 debuted just over a year ago and contributed significantly to increased sales of GMC’s new Sierra pickup.

Priced just below Denali, the Yukon AT4 adds functional and cosmetic features to appeal to outdoor-oriented buyers.

Yukon AT4 features include:

Two-speed transfer case
20-inch all-terrain tires
Off-road mode
Hill descent control
Skid plates
Seats with AT4 -exclusive leather and stitching
Black interior with brandy accents
Heated front seats, steering wheel and outboard second-row seats

A console packed with surprises

The sliding power center console between the seats can move back as much as 10 inches. That puts its rear cupholders in easy reach of second-row passengers. Don’t worry, the console has cupholders positioned for the driver and front passenger, too.

Sliding the console back also reveals a large storage space that includes a hidden, locking compartment for valuables.

Other available Yukon features will include:

Adjustable air suspension that can change ride height four inches for easy entrance, driving at speed or off-roading
Sliding second-row seats
Adaptive shock absorbers with magnetic ride control
6.2L 420-hp V8 engine
10-speed automatic transmission with push button controls
3.0L diesel straight-six engine
15-inch color head-up display
Nine camera views for parking and trailering, including surround view
Rear pedestrian detection
Front automatic emergency braking

GMC will announce prices and fuel economy closer to when sales begin.

General Motors invested $1.4 billion since 2015 in its Arlington, Texas, assembly plant to build the new Yukon, Tahoe, Suburban and Cadillac Escalade, all of which use the same architecture, which GM calls T1. Production begins this spring.

Contact Mark Phelan at 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter.

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