2019 GMC Yukon XL
What’s new
- A 6.2-liter V8 engine now optional for the midlevel SLT trim
- New Graphite Edition package for SLT
- Part of the third Yukon XL generation introduced for 2015
Pros
- Seats up to nine passengers
- Plenty of cargo capacity, even with all the seats deployed
- High towing ratings
Cons
- Size, weight and length make it unwieldy around town
- Slow gas pedal response makes base engine feel weaker than it's rated
- Cargo space utility is limited by high load floor
2019 GMC Yukon XL pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which Yukon XL does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
Nine-passenger capacity combined with strong towing power is hard to come by, and it's what makes the 2019 GMC Yukon XL a great choice for big families with big toys. Aside from a few other truck-based large SUVs, there isn't anything else available that can match the Yukon XL's skill set. The trade-off is that the Yukon's imposing mass and traditional SUV design compromise maneuverability, fuel economy and ride comfort.
But you expect as much in an SUV of this size, and the Yukon XL's utility is undeniable. Even with the third-row seats deployed, it has 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space available. Fold down the second and third rows, and you've got a whopping 121.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo space at your disposal. If towing is your thing, the Yukon XL can lug up to 8,300 pounds.
All of this makes the Yukon XL a fairly mission-specific vehicle. Sure, for a big SUV, we've found it easy to drive, as long as you're going straight. But there's no escaping the Yukon XL's roots. Navigating tight parking lots and city streets requires caution, calculation, and some amount of faith in the space around the vehicle. The truck-based suspension can't deliver the carlike ride comfort of a crossover, nor is the Yukon a picture of fuel efficiency.
You might want to check out the Ford Expedition Max. It has just as much capability as the Yukon, if not more, but is a more refined and upscale vehicle overall. But overall the Yukon XL's size, power and style will undoubtedly hit the mark for a very specific buyer.
2019 GMC Yukon XL configurations
The 2019 GMC Yukon XL is a full-size SUV offered in SLE, SLT and Denali trim levels. The smaller Yukon is covered in a separate review. Most Yukon XLs seat eight passengers, but an optional front bench seat on the SLE trim increases the capacity to nine. Second-row bucket seats are available on the SLT trim and standard on the Denali; they reduce passenger capacity to seven.
The SLE base trim starts with a 5.3-liter V8 engine (355 horsepower, 383 pound-feet of torque) paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive is optional.
Standard SLE features include 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, side steps, roof rails, front and rear parking sensors, automatic wipers, and a trailer hitch receiver with a wiring harness. Standard interior features include tri-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, and 60/40-split folding second- and third-row seats.
Also included is a 110-volt power outlet, an 8-inch touchscreen interface, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, OnStar communications (with a 4G LTE connection and Wi-Fi hotspot), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system with CD player, satellite and HD radio and five USB inputs.
The optional Enhanced Driver Alert package adds forward collision warning with automatic low-speed emergency braking, a vibrating safety-alert driver seat, automatic high beams, and lane departure warning and intervention. The Convenience package adds a power-operated liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable pedals and a universal garage door opener.
The SLT trim is broken down into SLT Standard Edition and SLT subtrims. The Standard Edition includes all of the above, along with leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat and driver-seat memory functions. The SLT further gets you hands-free operation for the rear liftgate, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, keyless entry and ignition, a heated and power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and power-folding second- and third-row seats.
For 2019, the SLT also gets two new packages. The optional Graphite Edition package for SLT includes 22-inch wheels and blacked-out exterior trim (side steps, grille), while the Graphite Performance Edition boosts performance and comfort with a 6.2-liter V8 engine (420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque), a 10-speed transmission, a heavy-duty alternator, Magnetic Ride Control adaptive dampers, a head-up display, a customizable gauge cluster, active noise cancellation system, and upgraded cabin air filtration.
The top-of-the-line Denali trim builds on the features listed above, including those from the Graphite Performance Edition, and adds 20-inch wheels, a two-speed transfer case (4WD models), xenon headlights, a trailer brake controller, power-folding second-row bucket seats, a navigation system, a wireless smartphone charging pad and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound system.
The optional Denali Ultimate package bundles 22-inch wheels, a sunroof, power side steps, adaptive cruise control, a rear seat entertainment system with DVD player, and an extended satellite radio and traffic information subscription, among other items.
Several Denali features are offered as options on SLT trims, while options for SLE and SLT trims include 22-inch wheels, navigation, and a heavy-duty trailering package with a unique axle ratio, trailer brake controller and a self-leveling suspension.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the GMC Yukon XL Denali (6.2L V8 | 6-speed automatic | 4WD).
NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2015, the current Yukon XL has received some revisions, including a new 10-speed automatic transmission for Denali trims. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Yukon XL.
Driving
Acceleration
Braking
Steering
Handling
Drivability
Off-road
Comfort
Seat comfort
Ride comfort
Noise & vibration
Interior
Ease of use
Roominess
Visibility
Utility
Technology
Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL.
Features & Specs
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Yukon XL safety features:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Issues an alert if a potential collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian seems imminent, and can initiate braking if necessary.
- Safety Alert Seat
- Generates vibrating pulse patterns in the seat cushion to alert the driver to potential collisions on the left or right side of car.
- Teen Driver
- Enhances safety for young drivers. Includes custom speed alerts and limits on audio volume.
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GMC Yukon XL vs. the competition
2019 GMC Yukon XL
2018 Ford Expedition
GMC Yukon XL vs. Ford Expedition
The Expedition Max is Ford's extended-length Expedition, and it measures up with the Yukon XL in most categories. Instead of a big V8, the Expedition uses a turbocharged V6 to make 20 more hp than the Yukon's 5.3-liter V8. It also makes much more torque: 470 pound-feet. Those numbers mean something when it comes time to tow. The Max also returns better fuel economy and has a roomier third-row seat.
GMC Yukon XL vs. Chevrolet Suburban
The Yukon and Suburban are corporate and mechanical twins, so this choice comes down to whether you want to pay the same money for a midlevel Yukon XL SLT or a loaded Suburban Premier. The Suburban doesn't offer the luxury touches and details of the Yukon. So if you want to ultimate comfort for long trips, the Yukon XL is the one to get. But if you don't mind a little less flair and polish in your cabin surroundings, you can load up on nearly all of the tech and convenience features for the same price, or less if you look at lower Suburban trims.
GMC Yukon XL vs. Nissan Armada
The Armada flies under the radar in this segment, and that's a shame. With a recently new V8 and an impressive set of safety features, the Armada punches above its weight, especially when considering its high-quality interior and its ride quality, which is noticeably less trucklike that some of its competitors. All this and it doesn't sacrifice towing capability either. On the downside, the Armada's third row isn't exceptionally roomy, and its V8 is thirsty.
2019 GMC Yukon XL for Sale
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See your car's valueWhile car-based crossover SUVs of all sizes have taken over the automotive landscape, there are still drivers who seek an old-school full-size SUV that still puts the "U" in SUV. With up to nine-passenger seating and the ability to haul heavy loads and tow serious trailers, the 2019 GMC Yukon XL fits the bill nicely.
The luxury-trimmed cousin of the Chevrolet Suburban, the Yukon XL offers a full host of comfort and convenience features. Its 19-foot length means it can offer three rows of seats plus the ability to stow 39.3 cubic feet of cargo, even with all seats occupied. Fold down the seats and the space expands to a 121.7-cubic-foot maximum capacity. If towing is your thing, the Yukon XL can haul up to 8,300 pounds, enough to handle a horse trailer or boat.
Of course, there's only one way to make an SUV this capable and that is to base it on a truck. The Yukon XL shares its bones with General Motors' pickup trucks. It rides comfortably and quietly, with the optional Magnetic Ride Control suspension doing a great job of soaking up bigger bumps and thumps, though it can't stop the smaller ones from sending vibrations into the cabin. The Yukon XL never lets you forget you're driving a truck, especially if you have to make an emergency swerve.
The Yukon XL offers the choice of two stout V8 engines: a 5.3-liter that develops 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.2-liter rated at 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both come with automatic transmissions (six speeds for the 5.3-liter and 10 speeds for the 6.2-liter), and both are available with either rear- or four-wheel drive. Previously, only the Denali trim offered the larger V8 but today it's available on midlevel SLT trims through the optional Graphite Performance Edition package.
For 4WD models, a low-range transfer case is available on the 5.3-liter and standard with the 6.2-liter. The low-range case enhances off-road abilities, but the Yukon XL's big size and long wheelbase are bound to be limiting factors.
GMC offers the Yukon XL in three main trims. The cloth-trimmed SLE receives a full host of creature comforts, while the SLT adds leather, a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors and more. The top-of-the-line Denali gets a bigger engine, xenon lights, an adaptive suspension and other luxury features. If you need a luxurious SUV with above-average hauling and towing capabilities, Edmunds can help find the perfect 2019 GMC Yukon XL for you.
2019 GMC Yukon XL Overview
The 2019 GMC Yukon XL is offered in the following submodels: Yukon XL SUV. Available styles include Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A), Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A), SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLE 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A), SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A), and SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A).
What do people think of the 2019 GMC Yukon XL?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL and all its trim types. 0 Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 Yukon XL.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Yukon XL featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 GMC Yukon XL?
2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A)
The 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $75,635. The average price paid for a new 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) is trending $5,179 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,179 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$70,456.
The average savings for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) is6.8% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 49 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
The 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $71,385. The average price paid for a new 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) is trending $7,035 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $7,035 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$64,350.
The average savings for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) is9.9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 6 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
The 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $64,030. The average price paid for a new 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) is trending $6,751 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,751 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$57,279.
The average savings for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) is10.5% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT Standard Edition 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
2019 GMC Yukon XL SLE 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
The 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLE 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $56,495. The average price paid for a new 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLE 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) is trending $5,924 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $5,924 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$50,571.
The average savings for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLE 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) is10.5% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLE 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.
Which 2019 GMC Yukon XLS are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 GMC Yukon XL for sale near. There are currently 193 new 2019 Yukon XLS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $56,495 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 GMC Yukon XL. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $8,271 on a used or CPO 2019 Yukon XL available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2019 GMC Yukon XLs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new GMC Yukon XL for sale - 4 great deals out of 17 listings starting at $14,159.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 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.
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2019 GMC Yukon XL Information
- 2019 GMC Yukon XL Build and Price TMV®
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- 2019 GMC Yukon XL Consumer Reviews
- 2019 GMC Yukon XL Features & Specs
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- 2019 GMC Yukon XL Review
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