Flash Drive

2015 GMC Yukon

January 31, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 GMC Yukon 4WD SLT

The GMC Yukon SLT was totally redesigned for 2015. Halogen projector headlights are standard.
The GMC Yukon SLT was totally redesigned for 2015. Halogen projector headlights are standard.

Engine: 5.3-liter V-8 gas, 355 horsepower 383 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission four-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 16/City—22/Highway—18/Combined

Base Price: $57,735

As Tested: $64,520 

Performance:

Muscular, powerful

Trailer towing mode

Trailer brake controller

7,300 pound GVW rating

Locking rear differential

Good electric power steering

Strong four-wheel disc brakes

Respectable fuel economy for its size

Seamless V-8/V-4 economy mode

Smooth highway ride

Good ride height for seeing around traffic

Blind spot and lane departure warning systems

The 2015 GMC Yukon has three rows of seating, but it's shorter than the Yukon XL.
The 2015 GMC Yukon has three rows of seating, but it’s shorter than the Yukon XL.

Comfort:

Quiet cabin in part due to inlaid doors

Smallish sunroof

Handsome, nicely outfitted interior

Big sun visors

Heated and cooled front seats

Heated second row bucket seats

Heated steering wheel

Stretch-out front passenger legroom, but some ducting interference

Driver’s power lumbar support wasn’t very firm

Good second row knee room, but not spectacular

Third row very snug for adults

Utility:

Adjustable height power liftgate

Second and third row seats fold flat for a large cargo area, but the deck is slightly elevated.
Second and third row seats fold flat for a large cargo area, but the deck is slightly elevated.

Lots of cargo capacity

Big front door bins

Huge console bin

Rain sensing wipers

Room for groceries behind third row seats

Wow Factors:

Power folding second and third row seats

Lots of available high-tech safety features

Handsome, masculine styling

Whines:

It’s a big SUV with a price to match

Cargo floor is slightly elevated, which affects total cargo capacity

Part of third row power folding seat wouldn’t fold flat

Third row lower cushion very close to floor means knees up posture

Bottom Line:

The 2015 GMC Yukon SLT is a full-size SUV (although not as big as the Yukon XL) and it has all the pluses and minuses of a pickup-based sport utility. It’s very spacious and comfortable and pleasant to drive once you adjust to its size.