2018 GMC Yukon Review
2018 GMC Yukon Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review

byWill Kaufman
Senior Editor and Content Strategist, CarMax
Will Kaufman has worked in the automotive industry since 2017. He has written hundreds of car-related articles and reviews over the course of his career. Will is a senior editor and content strategist for CarMax at Edmunds. Will has been featured in the Associated Press and a number of major outlets on the topics of infotainment and vehicle data, vehicle subscription services and autonomous vehicles. Will started his career in online publishing by writing and editing standardized test guides, but he has a lot more fun writing about cars.
Pros
- Seating for up to nine people
- Impressive towing capacity from standard V8 engine
- Quiet and nicely trimmed cabin
Cons
- Sluggish engine and brake responses
- High trunk floor reduces cargo space and makes loading items difficult
- Maneuvering in tight spaces is a challenge
What's new
- The Yukon Denali now comes with a 10-speed transmission
- Part of the fourth Yukon generation introduced for 2015
The 2018 GMC Yukon occupies what little space there is between the related Chevrolet Tahoe and the Cadillac Escalade. Though less premium than the Escalade, it does offer a few more luxuries and features than the Tahoe.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 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 $3.56 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$232/mo for Yukon SLE
Yukon SLE
vs
$258/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Like its siblings, the Yukon offers available seating for nine and an impressive towing capacity. You also get plenty of standard equipment. However, the Yukon's road manners and cargo utility aren't up to par, and its elevated price point (compared to the Tahoe) pits it against some more luxurious vehicles.
Buyers who demand the towing capacity of a body-on-frame SUV should take a look at the all-new Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. Both promise impressive capability but with more utility and comfort than the Yukon.
Those who need three rows but are willing to sacrifice towing capacity have quite a few options. The Audi Q7 has excellent driving dynamics and lots of advanced technology options. The Acura MDX is similarly well-behaved on the road and offers plenty of luxury trimmings. The price of the top trim Yukon Denali even makes a competitor of the entry-level Mercedes-Benz GLS Class, which makes up what it lacks in content with a much more upscale interior and refined driving experience.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Not many vehicles can carry nine people or tow more than 8,000 pounds, but the 2018 GMC Yukon is just such a vehicle. Beyond these particular talents, though, the Yukon has some shortcomings that might be too much for some buyers.
Driving
The base V8 feels strong, but only if you really stomp on the gas. Otherwise, the Yukon's sluggish throttle response and soft brake pedal make for a disconnected driving experience. Maneuverability in tight spaces is also an issue.
Comfort
The cabin is impressively quiet, and the front seats provide all-day comfort. The base suspension manages sharp impacts well, but surprisingly small road imperfections tend to give the cockpit the shakes. The powerful air conditioning has no issue regulating cabin temperatures.
Interior
The controls are easy to find and use. The big doors, side steps and grab handles mean entry and exit is relatively easy for such a tall vehicle. There's plenty of room for the first two rows, but the third row has a high floor and lacks legroom compared to smaller competitors.
Utility
An impressive maximum tow rating of 8,400 pounds and plenty of small-item storage in the cabin are definite strengths. But the cargo area has a high floor that makes loading and unloading difficult, and storage space behind the third row lags behind competitors, even significantly smaller ones.
Technology
Even the base Yukon comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and a 4G hotspot with Wi-Fi. The GMC infotainment system is also generally easy to use. There are plenty of safety features, and driver aids such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are available.
Which Yukon does Edmunds recommend?
Unless seating for nine people is a necessity, we recommend the SLT trim. This trim level's tilt-and-telescoping wheel and power-adjustable pedals mean the vehicle can accommodate more comfortable driving positions for most buyers. It also adds some useful features such as power-folding second- and third-row seats, a hands-free liftgate and proximity entry with push-button start.
2018 GMC Yukon models
The 2018 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV offered in SLE, SLT and Denali trim levels. Most Yukons 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.
GMC offers two different engines based on trim level. SLE and SLT models come with a 5.3-liter V8 engine that produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. It is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. Four-wheel drive is available with a single-speed transfer case that is optional for all trims, and a two-speed transfer case with low-range gearing is available. The Yukon Denali is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a new 10-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. The optional four-wheel drive includes a standard two-speed transfer case.
Standard features for the SLE trim include 18-inch wheels, heated mirrors, foglights, side steps, roof rails, front and rear parking sensors, automatic wipers, cruise control, remote keyless entry and ignition, and a trailer hitch receiver with a wiring harness.
On the inside, you get tri-zone automatic climate control, front bucket seats (with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat), 60/40-split folding second- and third-row seats, a tilt-only leather-wrapped steering wheel, a teen-driver monitoring system, OnStar communications (including a 4G LTE connection and a Wi-Fi hotspot), a 110-volt household power outlet, Bluetooth, an 8-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, five USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose nine-speaker audio system with a CD player and satellite radio.
The optional Enhanced Driver Alert package adds forward collision warning with low-speed automatic braking, automatic high beams, and lane departure warning and intervention. The Convenience package adds a power liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable pedals and a universal garage door opener.
The SLT trim includes all of the above, along with a hands-free liftgate, power-folding mirrors, an auto-dimming driver-side mirror, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, keyless entry and ignition, leather upholstery, a heated and power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, power-folding second- and third-row seats, driver-seat memory functions and a wireless charging pad.
The top-of-the-line Denali trim adds the larger engine and 10-speed transmission, 20-inch wheels, xenon headlights, adaptive suspension dampers, a trailer brake controller, a head-up display, active noise cancellation, second-row bucket seats, a navigation system and a 10-speaker surround-sound system.
Some features on higher-trimmed models are available on supporting models at additional cost. Optional features for SLE and SLT trims include 22-inch wheels and an HD Trailering package (unique axle ratio, trailer brake controller and a self-leveling suspension). The SLT and Denali are eligible for a sunroof, adaptive cruise control with automatic braking, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Denali also offers power-retractable side steps and adaptive cruise control.
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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.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 GMC Yukon.
5 star(48%)
4 star(10%)
3 star(6%)
2 star(8%)
1 star(28%)
29 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Solid Effort with great new Transmission
MikeO, 11/02/2017
2018 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A)
Great engine and new 10 speed transmission. Shifts really smooth and its never guessing on when to down shift or search for gears. Great on the highway. Rear visibility due to the middle row seat and C pillars is poor at best. Must use your mirrors and trust the tech. The tech is awesome and unrivalled by others. Touch screen is easy to use, love the layout, response time is great. … High step in, but its a big car and I knew that. Gas mileage is ok for a big car, cylinder deactivation is seemless. Turning radius is good for a big SUV. Overall please so far, two weeks under my belt.
1 out of 5 stars
Run Run Fast
Disappointed Mark, 02/24/2018
2017 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 8A)
If your considering a GMC Yukon Denali, I'd encourage you to run and run fast. I realize many are skeptical of these reviews, but I felt compelled to provide a review of my recent experiences. I purchased a new 2017 GMC Yukon Denali in August of 2017. In less than a year and 12,000 miles, I've had significant issues. First, I had issues with the Collision Detection system. The … Haptic Seat Motor has been replaced once and is now throwing the same error message, in fact this is a know issue by GM (https://gm.oemdtc.com/4389/pit5445a-diagnostic-tip-service-driver-assist-message-2014-2017-cadillac-chevrolet-gmc) My $75K Yukon is now heading to the dealership Monday for repair for the third time for this particular issue. The last time around, they couldn't find anything wrong. Now for the bigger issue, I just got the truck back earlier this week for an issue with the Lifters and Lifter rods. About 2 weeks ago I noticed a ticking coming from the engine. After taking it to the dealership, I was informed that their were issues with the lifters. The dealership has just rebuilt the entire right side of the engine. Again, GM is well aware of the issues based on their service bulletin ( https://gm.oemdtc.com/3656/15-06-01-002f-engine-misfire-tick-noise-malfunction-indicator-lamp-mil-illuminated-with-dtc-p0300-set-2014-2018-cadillac-chevrolet-gmc). In fact, they just modified the bulletin to include the 2018 models of the Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade. It's evident that GM engineering cannot figure out how to engineer the AFM ( Automatic Fuel Management) system based on the government's mileage regulations. After getting my Yukon back, it was back in the shop a day later, as the water pump was defective, throwing a screeching noise. For $75K you should certainly consider other vehicles. I love the look of the truck, however be warned, the quality is less than acceptable. Those are real services bulletins issued by GM, therefore buyer beware. Before you consider buying a GMC truck, please take a moment to review the extensive list of Services Bulletins released by GM. They should be embarrassed by the extensive list and the poor quality of the vehicles they are manufacturing.
5 out of 5 stars
5 and 1/2 years still going STRONG
Dennis, 11/20/2017
2017 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 8A)
If you do not mind the price, which is high, but as someone said you get what you pay for. I am over 60 years of age and this vehicle is amazing to drive. It reminds me of my dad's 1973 Caprice Classic which had a 454 cubic inch monster. The heads up display is wonderful as is all the technological advances of the automotive industries. I received/took delivery during the end of … August 2017. Every time I drive the vehicle i just smile! I have the 22 inch tires and I am actually impressed with the gas mileage, if you can stay off throttle. If you prefer a large SUV, you must give the Yukon Denali a try. I should have tried one years ago, but due to price I never pulled the trigger. I am glad I am able to enjoy the comforts of this Denali. I cannot say enough about this vehicle, just test drive one. You will not be disappointed. The vehicle continues to amaze me. Buy one. GOING ON TWO YEARS NOW, NO REGRETS. Continues to impress me, a joy to drive. Fours years and 50,000 miles. Yukon Denali going well.
Well it has been 5 and 1/2 years and all I have done it routine maintenance. Still going very well.
5 out of 5 stars
Great Luxury but Capable SUV
JNE, 06/15/2017
2017 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 8A)
We did alot research on SUV's and found some challenges with capacity, luxury and a reasonable price. We really liked the Lexus LX 570 but the price 90K+. We looked at the Infiniti QX80 and while it was clearly the most luxurious the exterior was less than desirable. We considered the Cadillac Escalade but found that it had the same capacity and motor as the GMC Yukon Denali at 20K+ … dollars more with interior differences. We also considered the Tahoe but when we priced it out with all the options it was the same price as the Denali. All in all the Yukon was the best bang for the buck and quite frankly it just looked better. Our research showed that it was a mix of happiness with owners from 15 and 16 years as these models had alot or recurring issues. We learned that many of the issues were to be resolved in 2017 and decided to lease one. Ours is fully loaded and we really like the technology GM brought to the table. The onstar app and myGMC app are designed well. Our only issue is that sometimes the apple play does't start when connected to the iPhone and we are unsure if it is the USB port or the iPhone cable. It gets great gas mileage as well. We really like the look and the ride and love the fact that is a truck base SUV vs a car base which provides us with more options. If you are looking for a luxury SUV with technology, towing and capacity to seat that is truck base this is your truck.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 GMC Yukon, so we've included reviews for other years of the Yukon since its last redesign.
2018 Yukon Highlights
SLE
Base MSRP | $49,080 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $232/month |
Seating | 8 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.3 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Yukon models:
- Forward Collision Alert
- Warns the driver to take action to avoid colliding with a vehicle or other object in front of the SUV.
- Lane Keep Assist
- Alerts the driver when the SUV drifts out of its lane and delivers steering input to keep the vehicle in its lane.
- Safety Alert Driver Seat
- Vibrates the driver's seat cushion when a safety alert occurs.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 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 Rollover22.9%
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