2010 GMC Yukon XL Review
2010 GMC Yukon XL Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Seating for up to nine passengers, massive interior space, smooth road manners, attractive interior with quality materials, powerful 6.2-liter V8 in the Denali.
Cons
- Third-row seat doesn't fold flat, portly curb weight dulls handling and performance (with smaller V8).
What’s new
For 2010, the GMC Yukon XL sees a simplified trim level lineup as well as a few equipment changes; highlights include new audio systems (with a standard USB port) and the adoption of front side airbags.
Edmunds says
It's massive and its third-row seats don't fold flat, but the 2010 GMC Yukon XL is an excellent choice for large families who need a full-size SUV with maximum seating, towing and cargo capacities.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2010 GMC Yukon XL SLT 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (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 $3.32 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$234/mo
Yukon XL SLT 1500
vs
$245/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
In today's social and economic climate, cruising around in a virtually empty, full-size heavy-duty SUV is about as politically correct as wearing a rabbit fur coat to a PETA convention. Volatile fuel prices and the big appetite of supersized SUVs mean that folks considering the 2010 GMC Yukon XL will likely really need its amazing passenger-, cargo- and trailer-hauling capabilities. Hollywood types who previously employed 6,000-pound utes for little more than dropping off Precious to day care and Fifi to the dog groomer no longer need apply.
Introduced more than seven decades ago under the Suburban name (which its Chevrolet cousin still uses), GMC's brute of a ute stays true to it roots. It still uses a rugged, body-on-frame truck chassis with a solid rear axle and is propelled by a big V8 engine. Yet despite its initially intimidating size, the Yukon XL has amenable road manners, thanks to its easy steering, compliant ride and quiet cabin on long freeway cruises. This year, GMC streamlines things a bit by dropping the sublevels (e.g., SLE1) of the SLE and SLT trims, essentially retaining them as option packages. Other changes include new audio systems (which all have a standard USB port) as well as standard front side airbags.
Few vehicles (apart from its Chevy Suburban twin) can match the Yukon XL's nine-passenger maximum capacity and all-seats-up 46 cubic feet of cargo space. Furthermore, with nearly 10,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity, this big GMC is ready for just about anything you can attach to its hitch. The Ford Expedition EL boasts a fold-flat rear seat and dimensions similar to the Suburban's, but it seats only eight and is shy on horsepower compared to the GMC. There's also the Toyota Sequoia, which has plenty of brawn but not as much room as the Suburban. For those who have massive passenger, hauling and towing requirements, it doesn't get much better than the 2010 GMC Yukon XL.
Performance & mpg
Three V8s see duty in the Yukon XL. Most versions come standard with a 5.3-liter V8 that makes 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. All 1500 engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Yukon 2500 models come standard with a 6.0-liter V8 rated at 352 hp and 382 lb-ft of torque. The SLT 2500 can also be had with an available 6.2-liter V8 that's rated at 395 hp and 417 lb-ft. They are also matched to a six-speed automatic, though this one's geared for enhanced towing capability.
The Yukon XL Denali features a more powerful 6.2-liter V8 that's rated at 403 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. Two- and four-wheel-drive versions of the Yukon XL are available, except on the Denali, which is equipped with an all-wheel-drive system that doesn't have low-range gearing.
Fuel-mileage ratings range from 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined for the Yukon with the 5.3 V8/2WD powertrain down to 12/19/14 for the Denali. Properly equipped, a Yukon XL 2500 can tow up to 9,600 pounds.
Safety
Stability control with a rollover sensor is standard, as are antilock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, front side airbags and OnStar. A blind-spot alert system is optional on the upper trims.
In government crash tests, the 2010 GMC Yukon was awarded a top five-star rating for its protection of occupants in frontal collisions. Side-impact testing with the new side-impact airbags hadn't been performed as of this writing, but last year's Suburban still earned a top five-star rating for side-impact protection.
Driving
For such a big truck, the 2010 GMC Yukon XL is fairly quick, particularly in Denali guise. However, dipping into the power often will quickly pull mileage down to the low double digits. Its handling is more composed and its ride is smoother than one might suspect, but with its hefty curb weight, the Yukon XL doesn't feel particularly nimble around corners. We found the related Chevy Tahoe to be bested by the Ford Expedition in this regard, and it's a safe bet the Yukon XL would be equally outdone by the Expedition EL. However, when it's on an interstate and aimed for the horizon, there aren't many better cruisers than the 2010 Yukon XL. The cabin is quiet at speed, and the ride is comfortably controlled over bumps.
Interior
Like the rest of GM's full-size SUVs and trucks, the current Yukon XL's interior is a marked improvement over the previous generation. Materials quality and fit and finish are both solid, and the various controls -- even those for the available luxury features -- are logically placed.
Depending on how you equip the Yukon XL, it can seat anywhere from four to nine people -- a total surpassed only by full-size vans. Cargo capacity is also immense, with a maximum of nearly 138 cubic feet -- a full 40 cubes more than a Nissan Armada and a few more than the Ford Expedition EL. Although the Yukon XL's second row is available with a power-folding feature, the optional third-row seats (which seat three people) must be removed manually to optimize cargo space. Based on our experience, those heavy seats feel like they're constructed of cast iron, and removing them requires not only a strong back but the ability to wrestle them from deep inside the interior.
2010 GMC Yukon XL models
The 2010 GMC Yukon XL full-size SUV is available in 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 models, which are available in three trim levels: SLE, SLT and Denali (1500 only).
The base SLE trim comes well equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, running boards, full power accessories, keyless entry, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat (with six-way power adjustments for the driver), dual-zone manual climate control, rear-seat air-conditioning, a trip computer, Bluetooth connectivity and an eight-speaker audio system with a USB port, CD player and satellite radio. The SLT adds power front bucket seats, leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bose audio with a six-CD changer, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror (with a built-in rearview camera) and rear park assist.
The top-shelf Denali gains unique styling touches that include lower body cladding and a unique grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats with a power-folding feature, a larger display for the rearview camera and a navigation system.
Some of the standard features found on the upper trim levels can be added to the lower ones as optional equipment. Other options (depending on trim) include 20- and 22-inch wheels, a sunroof, a navigation system, a side blind-zone alert system, second-row captain's chairs and a rear-seat entertainment system. Options for the Denali include a variety of 20- and 22-inch wheel styles, a sunroof, an additional third-row screen for the rear-seat entertainment system and a heated steering wheel.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 GMC Yukon XL.
5 star(55%)
4 star(38%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
29 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.5 out of 5 stars
Great Family car
Good Truck, 09/10/2008
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
This is the best driving car I have ever had. It is wonderful for trips for families that have more than 4 people. While the gas mileage is not great. I get 18 miles on the highway fully loaded with cargo going 75 MPH with cruise control on. This is not much worse than our old minivan. The AWD makes you feel like you are glued to the road. The optional rear camera is a must. It makes … backing out a snap. The turning radius is as good as any sedan. No joke. The interior looks like a Lexus and there is a ton of room. This car is identical to the Escalade except for the grade of leather.
3.25 out of 5 stars
I think that I have a lemon and I am so sad.
vgfree, 09/13/2011
2008 GMC Yukon XL SLE 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
We bought a 2008 Yukon XL for the first time.
We have always had Chevy Suburbans.
We were told that this was a higher quality vehicle.
Since 2009 we have had issues with a grinding noise when the engine was warm from the sun and we started it up.
The first time in 2009 we changed out the AC Compressor.
The next year we had a cilindar collapse 11,000 miles later,
we had the same … cilindar collapse. Luckily "The Plaza" in Omaha Nebraska covered the problem again when we were over the 100, 000 mile warranty.
We now have a oil leak.
We have heard from Hiley that as soon as we fix this we will be okay.
We have heard this before.
I am sad because I loved my Yukon XL.
It didn't love me!
4.75 out of 5 stars
Comfort, Style & Power. Priced Right
avatarfg, 09/14/2007
2008 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
Just traded 2004 Escalade ESV for this '08 Denali XL. So far, the first 2000 miles have been great. Highway mileage really is about 18 mpg as stated, if you go 65 mph. Mileage dramatically decreases at 75-80+ mph. Ride and power are excellent. Cruising on the highway is a joy. Handling is great for it's size but this is no go cart. Turning radius is very nice. Rear camera takes a … little getting used to but is a very nice addition. Also love the new power hatch. Styling is great. Mechanical & fit and finish have all been very good except for tailgate hitch cover which is a flimsy section of bumper that attaches loosely with a poor fit. Sound system, nav & XM are all great quality.
5 out of 5 stars
King of full size SUV's!
Keith Rigsby, 02/15/2017
2009 GMC Yukon XL SLT2 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
There is no real comparable full size SUV to challenge General Motors, but that hasn't kept GM from continuously improving the Yukon XL. We traded an 2004 Suburban for this brand new and now with 155,000 miles on it, this baby still runs and drives like a new one. Being totally honest, there are two weaknesses for these trucks. 1st is the displacement on demand or active fuel … management. This is supposed to increase your gas mileage, but it causes your motor to consume oil after about 60,000 miles or so. And if you're not the type that keeps an eye on your oil level, you can run too low and burn your motor up. I have always kept a close eye on this and finally had the dod deleted and I've had zero problems. My mileage is the same, maybe even a little better, and no more oil consumption. 2nd weakness is the transmission torque converter design. Due to a design issue, these 6 speed trannys will give you problems between 100k and 125k miles. Mine made it to 153k and then it cost approximately $1300 to have the fix done. The good thing is my guy went through the entire tranny and all was good except the torque converter and another part, the name of which slips my mind. A complete rebuild would have cost $2500-$3500, but because my tranny guy is honest, he fixed only what needed fixing. Bad part is that the design flaw is still there and in another 120k miles, I'll be looking at doing it again. Overall, this vehicle is awesome. Still looks good and haven't had any other issues with it except for what I've mentioned. Granted, some people will drive them even when they know there's a problem and this will wind up costing them a lot more in the long run. But for those that get luckier and catch these two issues quickly, this vehicle will give you many, many trouble free miles and will do so efficiently and in style.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2010 GMC Yukon XL, so we've included reviews for other years of the Yukon XL since its last redesign.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $41,490
- MPG & Fuel
- 15 City / 21 Hwy / 17 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 31.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 9 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V8 cylinder
- Horsepower: 320 hp @ 5,400 rpm
- Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 222.4 in. / Height: 76.8 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 79.1 in.
- Curb Weight: 5,846 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 45.8 cu.ft.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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More about the 2010 GMC Yukon XL
Used 2010 GMC Yukon XL Overview
The Used 2010 GMC Yukon XL is offered in the following submodels: Yukon XL SUV. Available styles include SLT 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A), Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A), Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 6A), SLT 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A), SLE 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A), SLT 2500 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 6A), and SLE 2500 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 6A). Pre-owned GMC Yukon XL models are available with a 5.3 L-liter flex-fuel (FFV) engine, with output up to 320 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2010 GMC Yukon XL comes with four wheel drive, and rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 2010 GMC Yukon XL?
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2010 GMC Yukon XLS are available in my area?
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Should I lease or buy a 2010 GMC Yukon XL?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out GMC lease specials
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