The GMC Yukon XL is an enlarged version of the GMC Yukon, providing 144.7 cubic feet of space when the second and third rows are folded down, and 41.5 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats. It seats seven to nine passengers, depending on its configuration with plenty of head- and legroom; and it is available in four trims. We are going to look at the SLE, SLT, and Denali.
Yukon XL SLE
The base SLE trim comes with a starting price of $57,185, and is well equipped for its base model. It is powered by a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque and is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard with 18-inch wheels, and four-wheel drive is optional. The SLE features an eight-seat configuration, with an option for nine seats on cloth upholstery. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is standard, as well as a 10.2-inch touch screen and forward collision mitigation. A GMC Pro Safety Plus package is available that includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure mitigation. Also, a Max Trailering package is an option that includes trailer brake controller, heavy-duty cooling system, two-speed active transfer case (4WD models only), and blind-spot monitor to cover trailers (if GMC Pro Safety Plus package is ordered), as well as tire-pressure monitoring sensors for trailer.
Yukon XL SLT
The Yukon XL SLT is considered the midrange trim of the Yukon models. It has a starting price of $71,785 and comes with more upgrades. It comes standard with the same 5.3-liter V8 engine as the SLE with rear-wheel drive and 20-inch wheels, and optional four-wheel drive. Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free liftgate are standard. A nine-speaker Bose audio system and wireless charging pad are standard, as well as the GMC Pro Safety Plus package. There are a number of options on the SLT. The Rear Media and Nav package include a navigation system and rear seat entertainment system with dual 12.6-inch display screens. A SLT Luxury package includes driver-seat memory settings, heated steering wheel, heated outboard second-row seats, power-folding third row, rear cross-traffic alert system, and a surround-view camera system, as well as the Max Trailering package. Second-row bucket seats are optional, making seating for seven passengers. A tire-pressure monitor sensor for the trailer is also optional.
Yukon XL Denali
The XL Denali has a starting price of $85,040 and includes many of the options as standard that the lower trims have available. It also includes the Technology package that comes with rear cross-traffic alert, surround-view camera system, and a head-up display. A 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque is exclusive to the Denali. A 14-speaker Bose audio system and navigation are standard. Options on the Denali include an Advanced Technology package with adaptive cruise control, digital rearview mirror, and advanced security system. Denali’s Deluxe package includes Advanced Technology package, 22-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof, and power-retractable side steps. Denali’s Ultimate package will include Denali Premium package, Max Trailering package, rear-seat entertainment system with dual 12.6-inch display screens, air suspension (rear-wheel drive), and Premium Capability with Active Response 4WD (four-wheel-drive). It also offers available tire-pressure monitoring sensors for trailers, as well as the option to add the Max Trailering package.
Overall
The 2021 GMC Yukon XL provides more room for passengers and cargo space with an upscale interior and powerful engines. Each trim provides a little more for your convenience and luxury, but overall, you can’t go wrong with any of Yukon’s XL trims.