Base Equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, variable intermittent wipers, an intermittent rear wiper, power steering, 12V outlets, a tilt/adjustable steering wheel with audio and cruise control functions, power windows and door locks, power heated mirrors, cruise control, front and rear ventilated disc brakes, daytime running lights, engine immobilizer, dusk-sensing headlights, stability control, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and electronic brakeforce distribution.
The SLT trim level includes fog lights. Options include a power sunroof, power retractable assist steps, and 20-inch chrome-clad or polished aluminum wheels.
The Denali marks the top-of-the-line model of the GMC Yukon XL 1500. This trim level offers an updated grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a power liftgate.
Interior
The interior features a front console with storage; cup holders in all rows of seating; a roof rack; step running boards; a manual flip-up liftgate window; a rear liftgate door; a trailer hitch and wiring; rear locking differential; front and rear stabilizer bars; four-wheel ABS (Antilock Braking System); front, rear, and third row head airbags; dual front side-mounted airbags; a remote anti-theft alarm system; six-way power driver and passenger seats with height adjustment; premium cloth upholstery; split-folding rear seatback; manual folding split-bench third row seats; a rear heater; three-zone climate control; a sun sensor; reading lights; a leather-wrapped steering wheel with simulated alloy trim; a tachometer; a trip computer; external temperature display; a compass; an AM/FM/CD/MP3/USB/Satellite audio system with Bose premium speakers; speed-sensitive audio control; and separate rear audio.
In addition to the power and performance that the Yukon XL 1500 offers, it also has stylish and convenient interior features that make for a pleasurable and comfortable ride.
The 2011 GMC Yukon XL 1500 can seat nine passengers in its three rows of seats, and it offers ample storage space for cargo behind the third row seat. In addition, the second row seats can fold down, and the third row can be removed to increase cargo capacity to 137.4 cubic feet.
The SLT includes a tilt/adjustable steering wheel with audio and cruise control functions, leather bucket seats, power-adjustable pedals, a universal remote transmitter, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, remote vehicle start, and rear parking sensors with a rear-view camera.
SLT options include an audio system with navigation and DVD-capability, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, heated front seats, and Side Blind Zone Alert. Additional packages can further customize your Yukon SLT.
The Denali comes with power-folding second row seats, heated front seats, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system with surround sound.
Performance & Handling
Equipped with a flex fuel-capable 5.3-liter V-8 engine and a six-speed shiftable automatic transmission, the rear-drive 2011 GMC Yukon XL 1500 has the power to tow up to 8,100 pounds, as well as the room to transport your passengers and gear (when appropriately equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailering Package). The Yukon XL 1500 also comes as a four-wheel drive model. The Denali comes equipped with a 6.2-liter flex fuel V-8 engine and a six-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
Sporting a gross vehicle weight of 7,200 pounds, handling is less than stellar on winding roads. The Yukon XL 1500 offers a comfortable and quiet ride. The four-wheel drive model can offer the flexibility you need when your travels take you off the beaten path.
Safety
Stability control, anti-lock disc brakes, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags come standard on all Yukon XL models.
EPA Fuel Economy
1500: 15/21 mpg city/highway
Denali: 14/18 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Four-wheel drive capability
- Extended cargo space
You Won't Like
- Heavy vehicle
- Third row seat does not fold into the floor
Sum Up
Best for large families that need to tow an RV or a utility trailer
If You Like This Vehicle
- Ford Expedition
- Cadillac Escalade
- Chevrolet Tahoe