The
2011 GMC Yukon is a large traditional sport utility vehicle (SUV) that can seat as many as nine passengers and has strong towing capabilities. Powered by a 5.3-liter V-8, a 6.0-liter V-8, or a 6.2-liter V-8 engine coupled to a six-speed automatic, the GMC Yukon is a body-on-frame vehicle offered with all- or four-wheel drive and can tow up to 9600 pounds.
The Yukon SUV is offered with short and long wheelbase configurations with three-rows for seating, and the XL has a wheelbase that is 14-inches larger than the base trim and provides plenty of legroom. The Hybrid trim delivers 20 mpg and has a full two-mode hybrid system in order to ensure the SUV offers 50 percent more miles per gallon more than the gas-operated Yukon configurations. The upscale Denali trim boasts a wide array of creature comforts and high-tech features.
New for 2011
For 2011, the GMC Yukon full-size SUV is mostly a carryover from the previous year. The Denali trim did get more expressive sheet metal and interior appointments. All Yukons received OnStar version 9.0 and Mocha Steel Metallic and Carbon Black Metallic as new colors.
Essentials
Engines: 5.3L V-8, 6.0L V-8, 6.2L V-8
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Body Style: Full-size SUV
Trims: SLE Sport Utility, STL Sport Utility, Hybrid Sport Utility, Denali Sport Utility, Denali Hybrid Sport Utility
On the Outside
All GMC Yukons sport a bold front end and a commanding, high-riding profile, aggressive fender flares, and a large greenhouse. The Denali trim also gets the chrome honeycomb grille and monochromatic trim. Aluminum rims from 17 to 20 inches are optional, and you can even get 22-inchers for an even bolder look.
From the Inside
Every GMC Yukon has three rows that come standard, and depending upon the configuration, you could conceivably stuff up to nine passengers into the cabin. Thank goodness the Yukon has power fold-and-tumble second row seats to aid third row ingress and egress. A multitude of standard and optional comfort and entertainment amenities are available, especially if you choose the Denali trim level.
Driving Performance
The 2011 Yukon comes standard with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine, but 6.0-liter and 6.2-liter V-8 engines are also available, all mated to a version of GM's solid Hydra-Matic six-speed transmission. The Yukon employs a coil-over-shock front design and a rack-and-pinion steering. While the five-link rear suspension can be increased with GM's Autoride real-time damping system, featuring electronically controlled shocks designed to automatically adjust to changing road conditions, this comes standard on the Denali trim level.
Safety Equipment
Standard safety equipment on the GMC Yukon includes a host of airbags that feature head curtains for all rows. Front-seat belt pre-tensioners are linked to the sensing system to reduce the effects of rear-end impacts. GM's StabiliTrak stability control system with traction control is also standard.
Gas Mileage
Yukon, Yukon XL 1500 RWD/4WD: 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway
Plusses
- Versatile
- Hybrid trim
- Denali trim
Minuses
- Heavy weight
- Third row doesn't stow or fold
Rating
Traditional large SUV good for hauling people and cargo with ease
People Who Like the 2011 GMC Yukon Also Like
- Toyota Sequoia
- Ford Expedition
- Infiniti QX56