Used 2020 GMC Yukon XL

The 2020 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that’s mechanically identical to the Chevy Tahoe, just as the extended-length Yukon XL is closely related to the Chevy Suburban. Choosing between these corporate rivals could rest on styling preferences or which dealership is nearest, but the GMC variants tend be a touch more upscale. This is reflected in the pricing. Ascend to the Denali level and the Yukon can even rival the bona-fide luxury Cadillac Escalade.

For the time being, the Yukon remains a traditional truck-based, body-on-frame SUV, which endows it with strong towing talent, some serious off-road moves and an ability to carry substantial weight inside its cabin. The Yukon XL can easily accommodate eight adults and their luggage.

Despite its old-school construction, the 2020 Yukon is definitely keeping up with modern times in regard to ride quality. This is a big, substantial SUV that exhibits fine road manners, but still feels like it could pound a rough road into smooth submission. The optional adaptive suspension provides even more ride comfort through constant monitoring and adjusting to further flatten the bumps.

Yet the Yukon can also tow over 8,000 pounds and go off-roading. Its standard 5.3-liter V8 is wonderfully muscular. We’ve used it to pull trailers and RVs, climb grades and swoop along freeways. It pairs with a perfectly bearable 6-speed automatic transmission.

The even gutsier 6.2-liter V8 is standard in the Yukon Denali and can be ordered in the SLT trim with the Graphite Performance Edition package. This engine connects to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The optional 4-wheel-drive system is also reassuringly traditional, with proper low-range gearing provided by a 2-speed transfer case.

To roll as a 9-seater means having to choose the entry-level 2020 Yukon SLE, then opt for the front bench seat. However, check the driving position because, disappointingly, the SLE’s steering column only adjusts for height, not reach.

The SLT trim means seating for up to eight, but the front bucket seats are more comfortable, leather upholstery replaces cloth, the steering adjusts for reach and the pedals are power-adjustable. A pair of captain’s chairs may also be ordered for the second row, bringing the occupant count down to seven.

For those who require greater passenger space and more than the regular Yukon’s 15.3 cubic feet of cargo area, the longer XL should do the trick.

Any prospective buyers planning to keep their new Yukon in a garage should get out the tape measure. This is a full-size SUV, while the XL version is even bigger. It’s not the easiest vehicle to maneuver around tight spaces. But that isn’t why these vehicles exist. Their task is to be spacious and practical and fill the road with their presence.

The 2020 Yukon/Yukon XL starts out with a relatively simple front end, while the Denali versions are more ornate, with a 3D grille design and extra chrome. For the finishing touch, the largest alloy wheels available are 22-inch.

GRAPHITE PERFORMANCE EDITION
Opting for this package with the 2020 Yukon SLT brings the more powerful engine and 10-speed automatic transmission without having to spend the extra thousands on the top Denali version.

ENHANCED DRIVER ALERT
Safety is always a wise investment. This package adds active safety features like forward-collision warning with automatic braking, lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assistance. It’s an affordable $545 extra on base Yukon SLE models and standard in the SLT.

The 2020 GMC Yukon is available in SLE, SLT and Denali trim levels. The SLE comes with more features than the base Chevy Tahoe LS, but it’s also pricier.

A new Yukon sports a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, front/rear parking sensors, tri-zone automatic climate control, 9-speaker Bose audio system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration and an infotainment system controlled by an 8-inch touch screen. However, the least expensive 2020 Yukon would not be our first choice.

Stretching to the mid-trim SLT trim will bring leather upholstery, tilt/telescope steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals and a power tailgate. It also includes the Enhanced Driver Alert Package with safety features like forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning. All new Yukons have GM’s OnStar telecommunications service (subscription required after trial period) with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi.

Every variant may come with 4-wheel drive (4WD), but the easiest way to spend more money on a 2020 Yukon is to buy a well-equipped Denali version. This entails the more powerful V8, adaptive suspension (known as MagneRide), hands-free tailgate operation, perforated leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, wireless charging, head-up display, navigation, and an upgraded Bose audio system with active noise cancellation.

As well as the Graphite Edition package, the SLT trim is also eligible for a Standard Edition Value Package that bundles sunroof, 2nd-row captain’s chairs and 20-inch wheels. Other options include blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, power-folding rear seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

A pair of V8s make a winning hand for the 2020 Yukon and Yukon XL. The standard 5.3-liter unit generates 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

For those who think there’s still no replacement for displacement, a 6.2-liter V8 (available in the SLT, standard in the Denali) develops 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, directed through a 10-speed automatic.

Both engines feature Active Cylinder Management, where half the cylinders are deactivated (imperceptibly) during steady cruising to save some fuel. Even so, neither engine could be described as frugal.

Two-wheel drive (2WD) is the regular setup; 4-wheel drive (4WD) is optional in all trims. Maximum towing capacity is 8,500 pounds. The Tahoe can pull 8,600 pounds; the Ford Expedition is rated at 9,300 pounds.

5.3-liter V8
355 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
383 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/22 mpg (2WD), 15/21 mpg (4WD) , 14/21 mpg (4WD XL)

6.2-liter V8
420 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
460 lb-ft of torque @ 4,100 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/23 mpg (2WD), 14/22 mpg (4WD), 14/23 mpg (2WD XL) 14/20 mpg (4WD XL)