2020 GMC Yukon XL Review
Price Range: $30,590 - $43,998





+190
Average
7.4
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2020 Yukon XL offers a large cargo area, high towing capacity and a quiet, roomy cabin. There's a lot of capability for the money here. But the truck-based underpinnings result in an excessively high floor for the cargo area and a rough ride.
2020 GMC Yukon XL Review
Pros
- Seats up to nine passengers
- Plenty of cargo capacity, even with all the seats up
- High towing ratings
Cons
- Unwieldy around town due to size, weight and length
- Slow gas pedal response makes base engine feel less powerful than it's rated
- The high load floor hampers cargo space utility
What's new
- The Yukon XL carries over essentially unchanged for 2020
- Part of the third Yukon XL generation introduced for 2015
Overview

The underpinnings of a full-size truck, an interior with three spacious rows of seating, and two strong V8 powertrains are just some of the defining characteristics of the GMC Yukon XL. This big, traditional body-on-frame SUV can also tow over 8,000 pounds. And it does so with some pretty upscale features, offering a premium vibe when you compare it to its GM brother, the Chevrolet Suburban.
For sale near Montgomery, TX
41 listings
- $39,990good price
- 70,393 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use
- 7 Seats, 14 City / 23 Hwy MPG
- Carvana - Houston (47 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Houston, TX
At Carvana, we go miles beyond the extra mile. That's why we provide you with a convenient, fast, and hassle-free car buying experience that puts you ...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (14 City/23 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GKS1HKJXLR123528
Stock: 2003636479
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-10-2025 - $30,215fair price
- 108,520 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, corporate fleet vehicle
- 7 Seats, 14 City / 23 Hwy MPG
- Bruce Lowrie Chevrolet (181 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Fort Worth, TX
Clean CARFAX. Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! 4-Wheel Antilock Disc Brakes, 5 Auxiliary 12-volt Power Outlets, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blac...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (14 City/23 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GKS1HKJ0LR250160
Stock: 3592
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-17-2025
Much like the Suburban is an extended version of a Chevy Tahoe, the 2020 GMC Yukon XL is an extended version of the standard Yukon. It offers the same features and seating layout (fitting as many as nine passengers with the optional front bench seat), but it has more available cargo space behind the third row. With up to 121.7 cubic feet of cargo space, the Yukon XL is one of the most utilitarian vehicles on the road. It can also tow more than 8,000 pounds and exudes a slightly more premium vibe than its Suburban twin.
The Yukon XL's robust truck-based design allows it to have such a high cargo capacity and towing capability. However, that also means this SUV has a high rear load floor, which can make loading cargo difficult. And due to its weight, its fuel economy is subpar no matter which available V8 engine you get. What's more, this GMC is far from ideal as a daily driver, especially in crowded spaces where you'll want something more maneuverable.
For the right customer, the 2020 GMC Yukon XL could definitely be the right vehicle. Few vehicles offer as much space and as much towing capacity. Before you drive one off the dealer lot, we recommend taking a look at competitors such as the Ford Expedition Max and the pricey but extremely capable Toyota Land Cruiser.
Notably, we picked the 2020 GMC Yukon XL as one of Edmunds' Best 3-Row SUVs for 2020.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Average
7.4
out of 10
We drove the 2020 GMC Yukon XL on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the Yukon XL drive? The Yukon XL is easy to drive, though its sheer size makes it unwieldy. The standard 5.3-liter V8 is sufficient, but the available 6.2-liter V8 is more powerful and quicker to respond to your throttle inputs. Our test Yukon XL accelerated to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is quick for a large SUV.
Light steering keeps the SUV maneuverable, although there's a numb spot near the center that demands extra driver attention when cruising the freeway. The big Yukon stays relatively flat while cornering, and it gets around turns without feeling floaty. Emergency braking performance is good for the segment, though the pedal action is soft and squishy when you press down.
Light steering keeps the SUV maneuverable, although there's a numb spot near the center that demands extra driver attention when cruising the freeway. The big Yukon stays relatively flat while cornering, and it gets around turns without feeling floaty. Emergency braking performance is good for the segment, though the pedal action is soft and squishy when you press down.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the Yukon XL? Our Yukon Denali test vehicle had a noticeably stiff and busy ride. Other large SUVs are smoother-riding. Beyond that, the Yukon XL is pretty comfortable. There's very little noise whether from the road or wind, and the engine fades into the background when cruising. The industrial-strength air conditioning can easily cool the big cabin, and the climate control layout is straightforward.
You also get wide, flat seats with a good amount of cushioning, even in the third row. While they're comfortable, the flat second-row captain's chairs mean passengers may need to brace themselves when going around corners.
You also get wide, flat seats with a good amount of cushioning, even in the third row. While they're comfortable, the flat second-row captain's chairs mean passengers may need to brace themselves when going around corners.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The upright driving position is commanding, while the high dash keeps the gauges in easy view. The primary controls are easy to find, but many secondary controls are grouped oddly and distract you from the road. Thankfully, everything is clearly labeled. The thick roof pillars and sheer size cause visibility issues, but the big mirrors, parking sensors and backup camera help.
There's plenty of room in all three rows. The second-row thrones don't slide, meaning legroom isn't adjustable, but you can fold them out of the way for easy third-row access. The long rear doors also make access easy.
There's plenty of room in all three rows. The second-row thrones don't slide, meaning legroom isn't adjustable, but you can fold them out of the way for easy third-row access. The long rear doors also make access easy.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? GMC's tech is just OK for the large SUV class. The touchscreen is relatively small, but it responds quickly and is straightforward to navigate. The Yukon XL has standard smartphone integration and OnStar emergency communications, which includes a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. There are also plenty of charge points around the cabin, especially in higher trims. The optional roof-mounted flip-down entertainment screen supports Blu-ray.
Unfortunately, basic active safety technology is an optional extra rather than standard. To get a full set of driver aids, you'll have to go for high trim levels and add options. And even then, features such as adaptive cruise control feel unsophisticated by current standards. And you can't get certain useful features such as a surround-view camera.
Unfortunately, basic active safety technology is an optional extra rather than standard. To get a full set of driver aids, you'll have to go for high trim levels and add options. And even then, features such as adaptive cruise control feel unsophisticated by current standards. And you can't get certain useful features such as a surround-view camera.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? The Yukon XL excels with almost 40 cubic feet of trunk space behind the third row and about triple that if you fold all the seats down. However, the load floor is very high, so loading and unloading can be a chore. There's a lot of space for small items in the cabin, especially in the massive center-console box, but some competitors offer more options for separating and organizing items. The top anchors for car seats are placed awkwardly, and installed car seats hamper access to the third row.
The max towing capacity of 8,100 pounds is above average but still short of class leaders. You can get all the features and connectors you need for towing but not the advanced towing aids of newer competitors.
The max towing capacity of 8,100 pounds is above average but still short of class leaders. You can get all the features and connectors you need for towing but not the advanced towing aids of newer competitors.
Fuel Economy
6/10
How’s the fuel economy? With the smaller engine and rear-wheel drive, you get an EPA-estimated 18 mpg combined (15 city/22 highway). The 6.2-liter V8 with four-wheel drive returns an estimated 16 mpg (14 city/20 highway). This Yukon is a thirsty vehicle, and the 6.2-liter V8 is especially pricey to run because it requires premium fuel.
Value
7/10
Is the Yukon XL a good value? The Yukon XL is priced competitively for its segment. The advantages are a powerful engine and lots of capability, but the middling interior quality is disappointing. Competitors offer better value for certain features, especially safety and technology. It's also hard to deny that the GMC feels a bit old compared to what else that money will buy. Warranty coverage is on par for the class, and you get roadside assistance for the duration.
Wildcard
7/10
Our 6.2-liter V8 tester had plenty of get-up-and-go, but the whole experience is essentially one of driving a big truck — a big truck that's a generation behind actual pickup trucks in terms of quality, refinement and features. The grab bag of materials scattered around the cabin doesn't help the Yukon XL feel any more premium. Ultimately, it feels like a middle-of-the-pack contender without any standout traits or features to distinguish it
Advertisement

Build Your 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate

- 6 Colors
- 5 Trims
- 8 Packages
- $78,995starting MSRP

Build & Price 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.
2020 GMC Yukon XL trim level differences
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL is a full-size SUV offered in SLE, SLT and Denali trim levels. 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, and they reduce passenger capacity to seven.
Which Yukon XL trim does Edmunds recommend?
If you're going to make the jump from a Chevy Suburban to the Yukon XL, we recommend going with at least the midlevel SLT trim. It offers the optional 6.2-liter V8 and the 10-speed automatic transmission, Magnetic Ride Control suspension, and several standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist. The Denali is available with a few additional creature comforts and adaptive cruise control, but the price might be a deterrent for some.
Compare 2020 GMC Yukon XL trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Best Full-Size Truck of 2025: F-150, Silverado, Ram, Tundra and Sierra Ranked

2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4 First Drive: Taking the Electric Pickup Off-Road

2026 GMC Terrain First Drive: Stretching Upmarket

GMC Sierra EV Adds Less-Expensive AT4 and Elevation Trims for 2026
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas
$192/mo for Yukon XL SLE
Yukon XL SLE
vs
$205/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Reliability
The 2020 GMC Yukon XL has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, ranks it #14 out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Reliability Rating by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Average
#14 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
$652/yr
vs. $614/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Frequency
1.64x/yr
vs. 1.59x/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Severity
20.4%
vs. 16.7%
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal
Recalls
2 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 21V115000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- N212329050
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 33838
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
- Defect Consequence:
- Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
- Recall Number:
- 19V837000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- N192283991
- Manufactured from:
- 2019-08-26 to 2019-09-28
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 502
- Defect Description:
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Camaro, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump may be missing a pressure regulator, allowing for over-pressurization of the fuel system.
- Defect Consequence:
- Over-pressurization can crack the fuel pump and cause leaks, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
- Corrective Action:
- GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2019. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192283991.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Free maintenance Warranty
- 1 years / unlimited miles
GMC Yukon XL Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Dependable, easy to drive, never a problem.
5 out of 5 starsLCH, 05/09/2018
2018 GMC Yukon XL SLE 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
I've owned this car for 4 years and it's been, by far, the most reliable car I've ever had. Not one problem.
I bought it specifically for the space. It replaced a Ford Excursion, which was large, but gave me nothing but problems. The Yukon is sightly more difficult for me to park, but aside from that, it's a terrific family car.
I highly recommend bucket seats in the second row: … you'll want to keep this car long after the kids get big and they eventually won't like climbing over the seat. Adults fit just fine in the third row (wouldn't be my first choice, but it will do in a pinch).
The only down side is that you'll be stuck driving for every out-of-town trip.
My3rd Large GM SUV is most expensive and worst yet
1 out of 5 starsJ, 02/24/2018
2017 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 8A)
This is my 3rd Large GM SUV after having a 2001 Tahoe and 2012 Suburban (both of which I love) and owning it has been an absolute nightmare. I've had 6 different warranty issues and the car has spent 21 of the first two months I owned it in Dealership service for warranty work. If I could give "0" stars I would. Issues have been paint related in three areas, a recurring steering column … scratch, a water leak in the rear hatch, an electrical short causing the doors not to lock, a squeak in the rear of the vehicle, and a kinked trim piece in the steering wheel assembly. Three of the issues still exist and I am pursuing lemon law protection. I've reached out to GMC multiple times who have not been able to provide any meaningful support. Steer clear - GM quality has taken a steep decline. In my experience dealerships are unwilling or unempowered to help and GM Corp doesn't appear to be willing to stand behind their product. This has been the most regrettable purchase of my life.
Big solid comfort
5 out of 5 starsStephen Webb, 08/30/2018
2018 GMC Yukon XL SLT 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
I purchased a 2018 Yukon XL SLT with the Open Road and Premium Edition packages. It is a very large vehicle, solid, comfortable, luxurious, and can carry 7 people AND their luggage. The only time I feel I’m driving a big SUV is when it comes to parallel parking or entering parking garages. It is incredible on long road trips. The XL is rock solid, great seats, and a quiet … comfortable ride.
Drives small
4 out of 5 starsJeff H, 11/28/2019
2020 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A)
For such a large vehicle it drives like a car not a truck and is easy to handle. It won't fit in a compact parking space but is really comfortable to travel in and holds the road really well
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 GMC Yukon XL, so we've included reviews for other years of the Yukon XL since its last redesign.
2020 Yukon XL Highlights
SLE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $52,400 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $192/month |
Seating | 8 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 39.3 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Yukon XL models:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Issues an alert if a potential collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian seems imminent, and it 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 the car.
- Teen Driver
- Enhances safety for young drivers. Includes custom speed alerts and limits on audio volume.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 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 Rollover21.2%
People who viewed this also viewed
2.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $66,900 |
4.0 average Rating out of 4 reviews. |
Starting at $61,500 |
3.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $57,345 |
Related Used 2020 GMC Yukon XL info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- BMW X4 2020 Review
- GMC Yukon XL 2021 Review
- Maserati Quattroporte 2020 Review
- Chevrolet Colorado 2020 Review
- Tesla Model S 2020 Review
- Mclaren 570S Spider 2020 Review
- Toyota Yaris Hatchback 2020 Review
Shop similar models
- Used Chevrolet Suburban 2025
- Used GMC Yukon 2025
- Used Chevrolet Tahoe 2025
- Used Cadillac Escalade 2025
- Used Cadillac Escalade-esv 2025
- Used Nissan Armada 2026
- Used Jeep Wagoneer-l 2025
- Used Jeep Grand-wagoneer 2025
- Used Jeep Grand-wagoneer-l 2025
Shop used vehicles in your area
Popular new car reviews and ratings
Research other models of GMC
- New GMC S-15
- GMC Acadia 2024
- 2024 Sierra 1500
- 2024 GMC Suburban
- New GMC Yukon
- 2024 GMC Terrain
- 2025 GMC HUMMER EV SUV
- 2024 GMC Sierra 1500
- GMC Sierra 3500HD 2025
- 2025 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- Used Aston-Martin DB7 in Melbourne, FL 2003
- New GMC Savana for Sale in Lady Lake, FL
- Used Chevrolet Malibu-Maxx in Hilliard, OH 2007
- New Lexus RC for Sale in Tupelo, MS
- Used Acura TLX in La Puente, CA 2025
- Used Pontiac Montana-Sv6 in Warsaw, IN 2006
- Used Lexus Ux in Albany, GA 2025
- Used Chevrolet Silverado-1500 in Elmhurst, IL 2025
- Used Lexus Is-500 in Westmont, IL 2023
- Used Lexus RX-330 in Lewistown, PA 2006