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Acceleration
"Always adequate, though 4.8 V8 feels taxed with heavy cargo or towing loads.
Automatic transmission a model of smooth, alert shifting. No opportunity to test
XL 2500. Maximum towing capacities with largest available engines: 7800 lb for
Yukon 1500, 12,000 lb for Yukon XL 2500, 8100 lb for Denali."
Value
"Yukon and Yukon XL offer fine value and most of the sensible luxury options
anyone could want. Denalis mix those basic virtues with more standard power and
extra amenities, but not enough of either to warrant their higher prices. So
our Recommended label applies to the Yukon versions. "
Ride
"Base suspension is more controlled and absorbent than the available Autoride
system, which is standard for Denalis. No opportunity yet to test Denali with
20-inch wheels. Yukon's available off-road package rides stiffly, so try before
buying."
Economy
"In our tests, a Tahoe averaged 12.2 mpg, a Suburban 11.5; both had 4WD and 5.3
V8. Comparable GMCs do the same. Test '04 Denali XL averaged just 9.8 mpg. All
engines use regular-grade fuel."
Noise
"Wind rush not intrusive. Tire noise audible at highway speeds, but moderate
for large SUVs. Full throttle brings on engine roar, but these V8s are smooth
runners."
Comfort - Front
"Stretch-out space on wide, supportive seats. Drivers have commanding view, but
some nearby objects can't be seen, and no obstacle-detection system available.
Standard heated seats among Denali comforts."
Comfort - Rear
"All models have space aplenty in 2nd row, and Denali includes heated seats.
XLs offer adult-size room in 3rd row, but only kids will be happy there in other
models. Lower step-in than Ford Expedition and Excursion, but higher than typical
minivan; available running boards help. Rear doors' narrow lower openings hamper
ingress/egress, especially on regular-length models."
Controls
"User friendly, with legible gauges and intuitive controls all placed reasonably
close. GM lags Ford and Toyota in not offering side curtain airbags in its big
SUVs; charging extra for front side airbags in Yukons is a further demerit. Navigation/audio
combo a sensible idea, relatively easy to use. Fabrics, plastics midquality at
best even in higher-priced, leather-upholstered Denalis."
Cargo Room
"XLs take fair-size loads behind 3rd-row seat. Regulars have little more than
grocery space, but their 50/50 split seat is more versatile than XLs' one-piece
bench--and also easier to remove or install."
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