The GMC Yukon has undergone a complete redesign. For the 2021 model year, GMC has re-engineered nearly every component on the SUV resulting in a more refined take on the premium SUV than the 2020 offered. Here’s a quick look at everything you need to know.
The 2021 GMC Yukon will be sold in four variants.
So far, GMC has revealed that there will be SLT, SLE, AT4, and Denali models. The Yukon SLT and SLE are likely to follow similar packaging standard that the GMC Sierra has while the AT4 is getting blacked out elements and different underpinnings. Similarly, the Yukon Denali is the most refined model. All models will have three rows of seating.
The Yukon Denali is set apart from the rest of the lineup by its large chrome grille.
Photo courtesy of GMC
It’s bigger than before.
The Yukon has grown 6.1 inches in length and seen its wheelbase extended by 4.9 inches. This was done to give third row occupants more legroom and add cargo room without compromising passenger space in the first and second rows. Despite the added size, GMC has ensured that the 2021 model has a lower, flatter cargo-loading floor that allows for easier access to cargo space.
Yes, it will still come in two lengths.
Like the 2020 Yukon, Cadillac Escalade, and Ford Expedition, the largest GMC SUV will come in two lengths, labeled the Yukon and Yukon XL. The “XL” denotes the extended version, which adds 15.2 inches on the traditional Yukon body. That 225.1-inch design in the 2021 Yukon XL is up 0.9 inches over the 2020 Yukon XL.
The Yukon Denali’s exterior has high-tech enhancements and is bolder than before.
The 2021 Yukon Denali sits tall. It has GMC’s C-shaped front lighting signature up front that is delivered through LED illumination. Daytime running lights, headlamps, taillamp, and fog lamps are all LEDs. The Yukon Denali has a Galvano chrome grille that features a dimensional pattern with over 10,000 individual reflective surfaces.
There’s an available adaptive air suspension.
GMC will offer the 2021 Yukon with an available four-corner adaptive suspension. When it’s in 4WD LO, drivers can opt to raise the body up to an additional two inches for more ground clearance.
Significant length has been added to the Yukon to make the Yukon XL model.
Photo courtesy of GMC
It will have the most powerful engine in its segment.
The new 6.2-liter V8 engine achieves 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Yukon comes standard with a 5.3-liter V8 and there’s an available 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel engine option. All the engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
GMC is debuting a new four-wheel drive system in the Yukon.
The available Active Response 4WD System combines technologies including an electronic limited slip differential, to continuously monitor road conditions and react to improve traction, handling and overall control.
Yukon AT4 makes its debut.
Like in the Sierra and Sierra HD trucks, the Yukon AT4 adds more off-road prowess to the model with equipment enabling a nearly 32-degree approach angle, two-speed transfer case, 20-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires, a drive mode system with off-road mode, hill descent control, and skid plates. The model comes standard with GMC’s adaptive suspension. It also has leather appointed seats, a Jet Black interior color theme with Brandy accents, heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row outboard seats.
The Yukon AT4 joins other AT4 models in the GMC lineup, most notably the Sierra and Sierra HD.
Photo courtesy of GMC
GMC has significantly upgraded the interior of the Yukon Denali.
Yukon Denali models aren’t just getting an upgraded on the outside. When buyers choose the 2021 Yukon Denali they will have the opportunity to choose from four color themes that feature wood trim, and hand-stitched leather upholstery. The model also have its own, unique instrument panel and center stack design.
It gets a large number of cameras for maneuvering and trailering ease.
GMC will offer the 2021 Yukon with up to nine camera views, the most in its segment. These views include a surround view, rear camera mirror, and GMC’s ProGrade trailering system.
GMC has designed the interior of the Yukon Denali to be more elegant than the other trim levels in the Yukon lineup.
Photo courtesy of GMC
Advanced technology isn’t just for the infotainment system.
Buyers will be able to opt for the available 15-inch head-up display that showcases speed, navigation, safety features, and other information.
The 2021 GMC Yukon goes on sale this summer.
As is traditional, pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s on-sale date. Buyers should expect a price increase for the model, especially in the Denali trim.
The center stack of the Yukon AT4 has a unique design and Jet Black interior.
Photo courtesy of GMC
GMC builds the Yukon in the U.S.A.
Each GMC Yukon is assembled at General Motors’ Arlington, Texas assembly facility.
