2011 GMC Yukon Review
2011 GMC Yukon Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Seats as many as nine people
- stout towing capability
- comfortable ride
- smooth powertrains
- good fit and finish.
Cons
- Third-row seat doesn't stow away or fold flat
- lacks a telescoping steering wheel.
What’s new
The 2011 GMC Yukon is unchanged other than the updating of its OnStar system.
Edmunds says
The 2011 GMC Yukon is a leading choice for a traditional large SUV thanks to its comfortable cabin and strong towing and hauling capabilities. But for many people, a large crossover SUV might work out better.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2011 GMC Yukon SLE 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$237/mo for Yukon SLE
Yukon SLE
vs
$247/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
The 2011 GMC Yukon is related to GM's full-size pickups and shares virtually everything but styling details with the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe. As such, this large, V8-powered SUV is capable of transporting up to nine people and towing upwards of 8,400 pounds. Though now entering its fifth year since a complete redesign, the Yukon remains one of the best choices in its dwindling class of truck-based SUVs. Highlights include a ride that's far more comfortable and handling that's far more composed than you'd expect from a truck. Its cabin is also well built, now featuring much higher quality than you might remember from GM's past big SUVs.
As capable as the Yukon is in the role of family hauler, it's worth pointing out that a large crossover SUV will likely be a better choice for most people. The 2011 GMC Acadia, for instance, drives more comfortably, gets better fuel economy and has a third-row seat that's roomier, easier to reach and more convenient to fold into the cargo floor. The Yukon's third row must be physically removed from the truck in order for you to utilize an otherwise sizable cargo hold.
Should a more rugged, tow-ready vehicle be needed, the 2011 GMC Yukon (including its high-lux Denali trim) is certainly one of the best vehicles available. Its Tahoe sibling is another. The 2011 Ford Expedition offers a fold-away third-row seat but isn't as powerful as the Yukon. The 2011 Toyota Sequoia is probably the Yukon's most serious competitor; it offers a similar mix of performance and utility. But if you don't expect to have anything beyond modest towing needs, we suggest checking out large crossovers like the GMC Acadia (and related Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse), 2011 Ford Flex and Mazda CX-9.
Performance & mpg
The 2011 GMC Yukon SLE and SLT are powered by a 5.3-liter V8 good for 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive is standard. There are two four-wheel-drive systems available: a single-speed transfer case and a more traditional two-speed case with low-range gearing. The Yukon's Tahoe sibling with four-wheel drive went from zero to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds. Estimated fuel economy is 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined with rear- or four-wheel drive. Depending on drivetrain and equipment, the Yukon can tow as much as 8,400 pounds.
The GMC Yukon Denali gets a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 403 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic with manual shift capability is standard. In Edmunds testing, a Cadillac Escalade powered by the same V8 as the Yukon Denali went from zero to 60 mph in a quick 7.5 seconds. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 13/18/15.
Safety
The 2011 GMC Yukon comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and OnStar emergency telematics. Rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are available on all Yukons, while the SLT-2 and Denali can be had with a blind-spot warning system.
In Edmunds brake testing of the related Tahoe, the SUV came to a stop from 60 mph in 134 feet, an average distance for this class of vehicle. In government crash testing, the Yukon received the top five-star rating for both frontal and side-impact protection.
Driving
The 2011 GMC Yukon excels at highway cruising with a quiet cabin and a suspension that smoothes bumps and rough pavement without feeling sloppy when pointed through corners. Its relatively compact 39-foot turning circle also makes this GMC reasonably maneuverable in town. Still, the Yukon doesn't feel particularly agile in traffic and also exhibits some vagueness in its steering. It feels right at home when towing a trailer, however, cruising effortlessly and easily maintaining speed up long grades. The Denali shares the Escalade's potent 6.2-liter V8 and is thus notably quick for such a sizable vehicle.
Interior
The GMC Yukon boasts an attractive cabin with high-quality materials. The control layout is simple and straightforward, and the available navigation system is also easy to use despite a smaller screen than newer GM models have. The front seats are comfortable, though the lack of a telescoping steering wheel might be a drawback for some drivers. The Yukon can carry up to nine passengers, making it one of the most versatile utility vehicles in that regard. However, those in the rearmost row will find limited legroom due to a low-mounted seat cushion.
That third-row seat also poses problems for cargo capacity, as it doesn't fold away into the floor. You must either fold the seatback down and place your stuff on top or physically remove the heavy seat from the truck. Once you do, 109 cubic feet of cargo space are available.
2011 GMC Yukon models
The 2011 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV with three rows of seats that are capable of accommodating as many as nine people. There are three trim levels available: SLE, SLT and Denali. There is a Hybrid model and an extended-length version known as the Yukon XL discussed in separate reviews.
The SLE comes standard with 17-inch wheels, roof rails, automatic headlights, running boards, heated mirrors, tri-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, six-way power front bucket seats (manual recline), a leather-wrapped tilt-only steering wheel, Bluetooth, OnStar and a nine-speaker Bose sound system with satellite radio, iPod/USB interface, auxiliary audio jack, CD player and rear seat headphone jacks. The SLE can be optioned with a 40/20/40-split three-person bench seat that raises seating capacity from eight to nine people. A Convenience package adds rear parking sensors, remote engine start, a rearview camera (with mirror display) and power-adjustable pedals.
The SLT adds foglamps (optional SLE), leather upholstery, the Convenience package and the expanded availability of optional content. Options include an Off-Road Suspension package, heated eight-way power front seats with driver memory and power-adjustable lumbar, ventilated front seats, second-row captain's chairs and a navigation system with real-time traffic and auto-dimming rearview mirror. The SLT-2 Equipment package adds a power tailgate, power-folding mirrors, heated second-row seats and a second-row power seat release.
The Denali adds all the SLT's above optional equipment plus 20-inch alloy wheels, special Denali styling cues, additional interior sound insulation, a heated steering wheel and a 10-speaker surround-sound Bose audio system.
A sunroof and rear-seat entertainment system are optional for every Yukon. A blind-spot warning system is optional on the SLT-2 and Denali.
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Also Consider
2024 GMC Yukon Denali
SLE, SLT, AT4, Denali and Denali Ultimate
Starting MSRP$74,805
See All Trims
GMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
AdvertisementAt a Glance:
Also Consider
Build Your 2024 Yukon Denali
- 7 Colors
- 5 Trims
- 5 Packages
- $74,805starting MSRP
Build & PriceGMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#9 out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the GMC Yukon from 2008-2022.$638/yr
vs. $614/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.26x/yr
vs. 1.59x/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).19.3%
vs. 16.7%
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2011 GMC Yukon.
5 star(62%)
4 star(13%)
3 star(9%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(16%)
32 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
Our third Yukon; still love 'em
drat19, 04/14/2011
2011 GMC Yukon SLT 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
The '11 Yuke does just about everything better than our '06 did.
The ride is smoother, the seats more comfortable, and GM has finally caught up to the competition in terms of refinement and the usefulness of the electronic gadgetry.
The stereo and nav system are very solid, and the iPod integration via the USB port is killer.
It also looks gorgeous (esp. in the RJT color)...we began … receiving parking lot compliments the first place we parked it, and that continues.
You don't buy this vehicle for the gas mileage; you buy it because you want it for what it is...the most capable true full-size SUV on the road.
Towing, cargo, passenger comfort - the Yukon has it all.
3 out of 5 stars
Engine failure at 110,000 miles
Frank Pocino, 06/24/2016
2010 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
I had to replace my Yukon with brand new engine at 110,000 miles because of cam/lifter failure. No help from GM or dealer. Apparently I am not alone. I have owned four Yukons/Suburbans. This is my last.
4.88 out of 5 stars
Traditional SUV
James82, 07/26/2010
2010 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
After owning a 2000 Dodge Durango for 10 years it was time to replace it. I like the space and comfort that a traditional truck based SUV provides and the GMC Yukon did not disappoint. Even though the price tag was pushing close to a base Escalade, a fully loaded Denali seemed like a better choice. This car has an impressive tow rating which helps me for work, the fuel economy is as … expected from a large SUV and an average of 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway is okay coming from a previous guzzler so I'm used to it. This car is the ultimate road trip car with lots of space and comfortable seats. A good family car that can also hold its own during offroading and one of the best SUVs you can buy.
4.63 out of 5 stars
Great SUV
Aj, 11/30/2009
2009 GMC Yukon SLT2 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
I always drove Toyota and Hondas but after long research bought Yukon 2009. I am really impressed by smooth drive. We have two kids and our parents often travel with us, its been great fun in Yukon. DVD quality is great. I wish they had LATCH for car seat at all seating places in middle and third row. There are no front latches in 3rd row and has only one back latch. You might have … tough time fitting two car seat in 3rd row. I get about 14.5 mpg at 1000 mi. Over all, not going back to Honda and toyota at all.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2011 GMC Yukon, so we've included reviews for other years of the Yukon since its last redesign.
2011 Yukon Highlights
SLE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $38,945 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $237/month |
Seating | 8 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.9 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Yukon include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover24.6%
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