The Yukon is GMC’s flagship large SUV, and the 2023 model is the best we’ve seen in our decades of selling vehicles produced by the iconic manufacturer. The model screams luxury as if the car is somehow self-aware and proud of its heritage. Unapologetic about its dimensions, quite the opposite, the latest rendition of the Yukon wears its ginormous size with pride, it celebrates it.
With great comfort, tons of towing ability, a dashing and gigantic interior, and lots of features on every trim, there really isn’t more you could ask of the Yukon. Refined in and out, the 2023 Yukon is a gem that will instantly elevate your social status and turn heads down the street.
The Denali Ultimate trim is so good that it rivals the Escalade directly and the SLT will get you the most value for money. No matter the trim, though, all future owners will get to enjoy the model’s masculine, rugged exterior with its sharp lines and over-the-top grille. A gorgeous exterior that looks premium and posh. And where would this beauty be without the horsepower to match its proportions?
Engine options for the 2023 GMC Yukon
You know you’re in for a delightful ride when the base engine is a V8. The SLE is the Yukon’s starting trim and it comes equipped with a 5.3-liter V8 that can belt out an impressive 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The 5.3-liter is standard on the SLE, SLT, and AT4.
One step up is the enormous 6.2-liter V8 that will produce a whopping 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The massive 6.2-liter is optional for the AT4 and comes as standard for the Denali and the Denali Ultimate trims. Paired with the Max Trailering Package, the bigger V8 can tow up to 8,400 pounds with a cabin full of passengers.
There is a third option as well, optional on the SLE, SLT, and Denali trims – the turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. It improves fuel efficiency and delivers 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque to match the towing capacity of the 6.2-liter V8.
All engines come paired with a responsive ten-speed automatic.
Interior roominess
The Yukon can be ordered in two sizes – huge and gigantic. The Yukon XL adds a few inches in all the right places and provides an astonishing 42 inches of legroom for its second-row passengers. Not only that but it boosts a cargo area of 41 cubic feet behind the third row that can balloon to a gigantic 145 cubic feet behind the first row. A little more and you’d have to classify the Yukon XL as a commercial vehicle.
The Regular Yukon doesn’t fare badly either with 26 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 123 cubic feet behind the first row.
If you’re looking for even more room than what the Yukon has to offer there are very few options out there and pretty much all come at almost twice the GMC.
Trims and features
The base trim of the Yukon feels like a top trim from a medium-sized crossover SUV. And if that won’t scratch every itch, then the SLT definitely will.
The 2023 Yukon SLE comes with the 5.3-liter V8 plus LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, proximity keyless entry, and push-button start, an eight-person seating configuration (2-3-3), a responsive 10.2-inch color touch, a digital instrument cluster, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, Forward Collision Mitigation, and Lane Keeping Assist.
On top of the standard list of features, you can also add a few options to your Yukon, which include the GMC Pro Safety Plus package composed of Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. You can also opt for a front-row bench seat that will boost the maximum passenger count to nine.
The best trim, though, in terms of value for money has to be the SLT. Order it and you get everything listed above plus the GMC Pro Safety Plus package, upgraded 20-inch wheels, a hands-free liftgate, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, a premium nine-speaker Bose audio system, plus a wireless charging pad. Top shelf features for medium-level trim.
The 2023 GMC Yukon is an absolute beast. It offers one of the most comfortable and luxurious rides on the market – its top Denali Ultimate trim can even rival the mighty Escalade. Visit us here at Northwest Hills Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac in Torrington, Connecticut, and our dedicated sales team can answer all your questions and help you choose the right trim and the right options for your needs.
Not only that but as soon as we get the model from the manufacturer, which shouldnțt be long now, you’ll also get to see the 2023 GMC Yukon in real life and take it out for a test drive before you place an order.