The optional leather seats are comfortable while the third row is vinyl in deference to (probably sloppy) riders. The driver sits way up high and feels like he or she is master or mistress of his or her domain. The pedals adjust for long or short legs. The instruments and gauges are best-in-class, elegantly clean yet very functional. Interior small items storage is intelligently designed and all over, including a huge center console.
Those in the second row will find a lot of leg room. Heated bucket seats with a center console between them are available for the second row, turning them into first-class accommodations; and there is an optional power folding option, making it easier for third-row passengers to climb in. There's even decent legroom and good headroom in the third row.
At the top of the line is the Yukon XL Denali. The Denali is almost a separate breed. It has its own engine, a 6.2-liter V8 rated at 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque. The Denali is offered with 2WD or all-wheel-drive for inclement weather but not serious off-road use. The Denali comes standard with the AutoRide active electronic suspension, which is optional on the regular Yukon XL.
A liftgate is available that raises and lowers under power, a Bose sound system, a navigation system, and a DVD rear-seat entertainment system are available. Rearview cameras are standard with navigation and available for others with display in inside mirror.
For 2009 all Yukon XL's get a six-speed automatic transmission, OnStar 8.0, Bluetooth, and available features such as an integrated trailer brake controller, XM radio NavTraffic, and Side Blind Zone Alert. Denali adds a power adjustable steering column and available heated/cooled front seats. The Yukon XL was completely redesigned for 2007.
Yukon XL competes for shoppers with the Chevy Suburban (essentially same equipment and pricing), Ford Expedition EL, and if cargo space isn't as important as tow rating the Toyota Sequoia. Denali XL alternatives include the Lincoln Navigator L, Cadillac Escalade ESV, Mercedes-Benz GL450, and BMW X5 4.8i. Next Page