GMC Yukon assessment: The perfect used massive SUV

What to search for when test-driving a used GMC Yukon

What else must you search for when looking for a used Yukon? The AT4 trim grade incorporates a high-tech suspension and rear axle that makes the drive concurrently extra snug and agile, and you must see it take in bumpy roads and tear by way of icy, snowy circumstances with a correct set of winter rubber put in. (My private favourites are the Michelin X-Ice and Nokian Hakkapeliitta.)

Then, there’s the straight-six turbo diesel engine, dubbed Duramax, which gives the torque of a 6.2-litre V8 however turns within the gasoline financial system of a a lot much less potent V6 crossover.

When GM introduced it might deliver the identical Duramax diesel engines it employs in its pickup vehicles over to its full-size SUVs, together with the luxurious GMC Yukon Denali, customers bought excited.

Though 277 horsepower appears low for a car of the Yukon’s appreciable measurement and weight, torque is the all-important quantity in terms of shifting a heavy object, and this 3-litre straight-six delivers loads of it, with 460 lb-ft. That matches the output of the (a lot thirstier) 6.2-litre V8, however makes the majority of that torque obtainable proper out of idle. Although it will possibly’t match the V8 engines in terms of the soundtrack, the Duramax is smoother and quieter than most test-driving customers will count on. 

In the event you’re after an upscale SUV expertise, go for a Yukon Denali. This well-liked trim grade comes dressed up and decked out for an expensive really feel, but it lacks the snootiness of many rivals, most of which may’t match the Yukon’s popularity for uplifting confidence through its powerful and confirmed platform. The GMC Yukon has earned trade recognition, too. The 2021 mannequin stuffed its trophy rack with spectacular {hardware}: an InMoment eNVy Award for Finest Giant SUV, 4 Wheeler’s SUV of the Yr award, and Kelley Blue E-book’s Finest Resale Worth award for a full-size SUV.

Before you purchase a used GMC Yukon

The newest-generation GMC Yukon was all new for mannequin yr 2021, which means it must be straightforward to discover a lower-mileage unit with loads of remaining guarantee, in case your funds permits.

If that is your first foray into the world of proudly owning a big SUV, be sure you totally perceive the price of its upkeep necessities, substitute tires, winter tires, gasoline and insurance coverage earlier than making a call. The longest-lasting SUVs on the highway are typically those which might be the best-maintained.

Take a look in any respect service information before you purchase, or make certain they’re accessible to the promoting dealership. Within the unlikely occasion that you just want a warranty-related restore, you could must show that every one upkeep and servicing is updated. Bear in mind, the used Yukon’s remaining guarantee doesn’t cowl injury or put on brought on by non-factory elements or fluids, or a failure to take care of the car correctly.

Pay attention to tire and wheel sizing before you purchase, too. Excessive-grade fashions will roll on larger-diameter wheels, pushing as much as and past 20 inches. Although greater wheels look unbelievable, they could diminish journey high quality on tough surfaces and are sometimes greatest for drivers spending most of their time on the freeway. In the event you’ll do quite a lot of off-road or backroads driving on rougher surfaces, you’ll possible discover a mannequin with smaller wheels (and thicker tires) to ship a extra snug journey there.

GMC Yukon points to learn about

Your funding in a GMC Yukon goes extra in the direction of its platform, chassis and powertrain than its inside. Although homeowners respect the assured and succesful drive, many lengthy for a extra upscale cabin with richer supplies and hues. In the event you’re after essentially the most putting or high-quality inside for the greenback, this isn’t the machine you’re after.

Different homeowners and reviewers have blended emotions in regards to the pull-switch shifter, very costly pricing and large measurement, which may make parking and navigating in tighter quarters harder.

Ought to I purchase a GMC Yukon?

You’ve got different attention-grabbing choices when looking for a big used SUV, however in the event you require a car that may maintain your whole household and their gear in luxurious consolation whereas towing your boat round, the Yukon may be precisely what you want—simply keep in mind to ask about that great Duramax diesel.