GMC
The 2008 GMC Yukon adds an available gas/electric hybrid model. This report covers the Yukon and half-ton Yukon XL 1500. These large SUVs share their basic designs with the Chevrolet Tahoe and premium Cadillac Escalade. All were redesigned for the 2007 model year. Compared to the Yukon, XL models are about 14 inches longer in wheelbase, 20 inches longer overall, and have nearly 30 cu ft more cargo volume. Yukon and Yukon XL come in SLE, SLT, and luxury Denali models. All are available with rear-wheel drive. SLE and SLT have optional full-time 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes a low-range gear for off-roading. Denalis are available with all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Standard on 2WD Yukon SLE is a 295-hp 4.8-liter V8 engine. All remaining Yukons and XLs have a 320-hp 5.3-liter V8. Optional on XL is a 366-hp 6.0-liter V8. Yukon Hybrids have a 320-hp 6.0-liter V8 that pairs with an electric motor. These models can run on one or both of their power sources, depending on driving demand and require no plug-in charging. The 5.3- and 6.0-liter engines have GM’s Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. All these engines use an automatic transmission. Conventional gas models have a 4-speed. Hybrids use a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Yukon Denalis have a 380-hp 6.2-liter V8, 6-speed automatic transmission, and specific interior and exterior trim. Maximum towing capacity is 8200 lb for regular-length models, 8100 lb for XL. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. A power tailgate, power running boards, navigation system, and DVD entertainment are among available features on the 2008 GMC Yukon.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse seven-plus passenger wagons with brawny truck-type chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally poor fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.
Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Ford Expedition. We have no Recommended picks in this class for 2008.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Toyota Sequoia. The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon add a gas/electric hybrid model for 2008.
News
Though just redesigned, Yukons and their Chevrolet siblings are expected to add a hybrid powertrain option for 2008. The result of a GM-DaimlerChrysler-BMW collaboration, this new “two-mode” system is said to use twin electric motors and a 300-volt battery pack to assist a 5.3 V8 with GM’s Active Fuel Management. It allows low-speed driving on either power source, and promises better overall fuel economy than conventional powertrains. Rival Dodge’s midsize Durango SUV will offer a similar hybrid option in the ’07 or ’08 model years.
Further out, General Motors says it may offer a 330-hp diesel V8 for its largest SUVs by model-year 2010. GM is cagey about details for now, but says this new diesel will be a 32-valve dual-overhead-cam design–and clean enough for sale in all 50 states. GM projects a Yukon so equipped would get around 28 mpg in city driving vs. 21 for a comparable gas-engine model.
Source: ConsumerGuide
Current GMC Yukon
2008 GMC Yukon SLE SUV
Fully redesigned for 2007 (along with its Chevrolet Tahoe platform mate), the current GMC Yukon rides on a stiff, fully boxed frame. The ride is smooth and quiet, while handling is surprisingly agile for a 5,500-pound vehicle. Inside, the dash has a sleek, modern design, and materials are attractive and of solid quality. Numerous seating configurations can accommodate anywhere from five to nine passengers, depending on the trim level and options you select.
The basic trim structure includes SLE, SLT and Denali models, though numerous package options allow for considerable variation within the lower trim levels. Yukon SLE models come with all the essentials, including stability control, tri-zone air-conditioning, a CD player and full power accessories, while the SLT should be your pick if you’re looking for extras like leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Full-length side curtain airbags were standard on the SLT but optional on the SLE until 2008, when they became standard across the board. Buyers can choose either 2WD or 4WD on both the SLE and SLT. Choosing 2WD nets you a 290-horsepower 4.8-liter V8, while 4x4s get a standard 320-hp 5.3-liter V8 with a cylinder-deactivation feature that yields a highway mileage rating in the low 20s.
The upper-crust Yukon Denali comes with a full load of amenities as well as a larger 6.2-liter V8 good for 380 hp. Note that the Denali is all-wheel-drive only and can’t be equipped with a low-range transfer case. It also has a slightly lower tow rating than regular Yukons.
Although the Yukon’s credentials are solid, one downside is its hefty curb weight, which takes a toll on acceleration, braking and handling, particularly under the burden of heavier passenger/cargo loads. Additionally, its third-row seat lacks a fold-flat feature.
Source: edmunds.com
