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2016 GMC Yukon review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

GMC Yukon highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Impressive towing capacity
  • Available seating for nine
  • Quiet on the highway

Cons

  • High cargo floor and load height
  • Cramped third row
  • Lackluster handling

Mileage (EPA estimate)

15 city, 21 highway, 17 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

Price
Year

2016 GMC Yukon gets technology upgrades

The 2016 GMC Yukon is a near-luxury, truck-based SUV that offers seating for up to nine passengers while also delivering the capability of a full-sized pickup. Its towing capacity and off-road prowess are standout features, while its interior niceties separate it ever so slightly from its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Tahoe.

But the Yukon is not without its drawbacks. It drives like a full-size truck, making maneuvering through tight spaces a challenge. The third row folds down flat but cargo space isn’t as generous as competitors like the Toyota Sequoia or Ford Expedition. And while the cabin is more refined than the Tahoe, its ride can't compete with three-row crossovers like the Hyundai Santa Fe. You’ll also experience occasional truck-like shakes and shivers while going over bumps and divots on rough roads.

If you're looking for a three-row SUV that can also haul your boat on the weekends, the Yukon might be worth a look. But if you can do without its towing prowess, the next generation of crossover SUVs may be a better choice.

All GMC Yukon years

What is new for the 2016 GMC Yukon?

  • Yukon trims have been upgraded with Automated Cruise Control as standard equipment this year.
  • The Denali trim now comes with Flex Fuel Vehicle as standard equipment.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 GMC Yukon

What We Like

Utility: Properly equipped, the maximum tow rating for the two-wheel-drive Yukon SLE or SLT is an impressive 8,500 pounds.

Opting for a Yukon with four-wheel drive opens up the SUV's full range of capabilities but also slightly diminishes its towing capabilities.

Performance: The standard 5.3-liter V8 offers plenty of power for most shoppers. Looking for a little more? The Yukon Denali comes with the 6.2-liter V8 which boasts peppier acceleration, though towing capacity is slightly diminished.

Interior: The Yukon is a classy three-row SUV that features high-quality materials throughout the cabin, providing a step up from its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Tahoe. It's also remarkably quiet while driving on the highway and boasts gauges and controls that are easy to read and use.

What Needs Improvement

Cargo: The trunk's high floor makes storage space limited and loading that cargo into the back of the Yukon is a challenge compared to competitors. Leg room in the third row is cramped and storage space in the back row is limited.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3.4 out of 5

5 customer reviews
3
Above Average

RepairPal gave the GMC Yukon an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks GMC Yukon 9th out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the GMC Yukon

GMC Yukon features and specs

Denali 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • BOSE Sound System
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Folding Third Row
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Third Row Seat
  • Tow Hitch
  • Traction Control
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Head Up Display
  • Leather Seats
  • Quad Seats
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Running Boards
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

6.2L

Horsepower

420

Torque (ft-lbs)

460

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

26

Wheelbase

116"

Overall length

203.9"

Width

80.5"

Height

74.4"

Leg room

F 45.3"/M 39"/R 24.8"

Head room

F 42.8"/M 38.7"/R 38.1"

Front tires

P275/55R20

Rear tires

P275/55R20

Seating capacity

7

Max towing capacity

840/8400 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2016 GMC Yukon FAQ

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