The current generation of GMC’s full-size SUV is entering the third production year and for that occasion, the company prepared some interesting novelties. The main novelty is the introduction of the new range-topping trim, which will debut as the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate, which adds more standard equipment and some exclusive styling details. Other than that, things remain largely the same.
So, despite the novelties, the overall character of the Yukon remains largely the same. This SUV is famous for its generous amount of passenger and cargo space. Furthermore, we like the interior design, as well as a long list of standard and available equipment. The powertrain lineup includes some pretty capable units, including a super-efficient diesel option. On the other hand, the main complaints go to firm seats and a little bit more body roll than rivals.
We expect to see the 2023 GMC Yukon on the market sometime in the last quarter of the year.
2023 GMC Yukon Design
In terms of the base design, the 2023 GMC Yukon will continue in the same way. It will represent the third production year and the biggest novelty will be the addition of the Denali Ultimate trim. This version will bring not just more standard equipment, but some exclusive styling details as well, such as darkened chrome grille and other exterior trim, exlusive 22-inch wheels etc.
On the other hand, the mechanical aspect of the vehicle will remain the same. This SUV rides on the T1 platform and offers generally a pretty comfortable ride. However, the soft suspension setup also means that there is more body roll than you would expect.
Finally, there is the AT4 trim, with some exclusive styling details and a couple of off-road upgrades, such as a two-speed transfer case, skid plates, hill descent control, heavy-duty air filter etc.
Interior
Things in this aspect will remain the same. We are about to see a familiar layout, which looks pretty nice and elegant. The materials are good, as well as the build quality. Furthermore, we like the driving position, which is high and provides good visibility in all directions. Once again, the Denali (and the new Denali Ultimate), will continue with an exclusive dashboard design, which looks more upscale and utilizes nicer materials.
The strongest point of this SUV is the amount of space. The front and the second row are very generous with space, though some critics complained about the front seats, telling that they are too firm. Even the third row accommodates adults with ease, which is no wonder considering that there are nearly 35 inches of legroom.
Finally, there is the impressive cargo volume, which goes around 25.5 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 72.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 122.9 behind the first row, which is excellent for the class. The long-wheelbase Yukon XL is even more impressive, as it offers 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 93.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 144.7 cubics of the total cargo volume.
Features
As we’ve already mentioned, there is the new Denali Ultimate trim. Besides exclusive styling details, it also comes with lots of additional standard equipment. Some of the highlights are goodies like fancier Alpine Umber leather upholstery, 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage, open-pore wood trim, and an 18-speaker Bose stereo system.
On the other hand, base models will continue without more important updates. They should come standard with goodies like a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.2-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, six USB ports, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a six-speaker stereo, satellite radio, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, push-button start, remote start, keyless entry, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
2023 GMC Yukon Engine
The 2023 GMC Yukon will continue with three familiar powertrain options on the offer. Base models will continue with a 5.3-liter V8, which puts out 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, which feels plenty enough to move this large SUV with authority. Still, we would rather recommend the optional 6.2-liter V8, which features a max output of 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. It offers notably better driving dynamics and the overall driving experience.
Finally, there is the diesel version, equipped with a 277-horsepower 3.0-liter inline-six. Although not particularly powerful, it features a pretty impressive 460 pound-feet of torque, which is the reason why it moves this SUV with ease. Furthermore, this engine provides class-leading fuel economy, which goes around 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
All three engines come paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which generally does a good job.
2023 GMC Yukon Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2023 GMC Yukon on sale in the last quarter of the year, with a starting price of around 57.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia etc.
