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a red 2019 gmc yukon at an auto show

Which 2019 GMC Yukon Is Right for You?

Few vehicles can multitask like a GMC Yukon. These full-sized SUVs can seat up to eight passengers, tow up to 8,500 pounds, and provide luxury that competes with its cousin, the Cadillac Escalade. If you’re in the market for a 2019 GMC Yukon, this trim comparison can help you choose which one is right for you. Keep in mind that all trims can be two- or four-wheel drive. For this article, we’ll be discussing pricing on the 2WD models.

Yukon vs. Yukon XL

First things first. Buyers can choose between two different lengths on the GMC Yukon. If you're familiar with Chevrolet models (another General Motors company), the brand uses two nameplates for its full-size body-on-frame SUVs: the Tahoe and the Suburban. GMC, however, uses a single nameplate for its related vehicles. The Yukon is similar to its Tahoe cousin, and the Yukon XL is comparable to the related Suburban.

The Yukon has an overall length of 203.9 inches, third-row legroom of 24.8 inches, and a cargo volume (behind the 3rd seat) of 15.3 cubic feet. The larger Yukon XL has an overall length of 224.4 inches, third-row legroom of 34.5 inches, and a cargo volume (behind the 3rd seat) of 39.3 cubic feet. If you prioritize needing extra space and a larger gas tank, the Yukon XL is the best fit for you. If you need something with a little more maneuverability (though this is by no means a small vehicle) and an extra 200 pounds of towing capacity, the regular Yukon is a better buy.

SLE

The 2019 GMC Yukon SLE is the least expensive trim, but it has plenty to offer. It has a starting MSRP of $50,895 and features the strong exterior you’d expect from a Yukon. It’s equipped with a standard 5.3-liter EcoTEc3 V-8 engine that’s capable of 355-horsepower and 383 pound-foot of torque. Fuel economy is, predictably, on the low end with returns of up to 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

On the interior, the SLE features premium cloth seating with a 60/40 split second-row seat and a flat-folding split third-row bench. On this trim, the second- and third-row seat folding capability is a manual operation. However, GMC does allow customers to upgrade the front-row seating to a 40/20/40 bench. With this extra seat, the SLE can accommodate for nine passengers, though they may be uncomfortable.

The SLE also comes with an 8-inch diagonal infotainment system in the center console where drivers can access their phone using Bluetooth connectivity. For premium sound, the SLE has a standard Bose premium sound system with nine speakers so you can listen to your favorite music wherever you go. A rear-vision camera and front and rear park assist come standard.

The Yukon XL SLE option is similarly equipped with an MSRP of $53,695.

SLT Standard Edition

At an MSRP of $57,090, the 2019 GMC SLT Standard Edition adds leather-appointed heated front seats. Other added luxury features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a power-programmable liftgate.

This trim level also includes the Enhanced Driver Alert Package. This combines multiple safety features, such as forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, low-speed forward automatic braking, and a safety alert seat. Upgraded IntelliBeam headlamps also provide better visibility.

The Yukon XL SLT Standard Edition features the same standard features at an MSRP of $59,890.

SLT

The 2019 GMC Yukon SLT builds on the SLE's features by adding some luxurious touches to make it more enjoyable for both drivers and passengers. Drivers may first notice that the SLT is equipped with keyless open and start features. No more fumbling with your keys to open the door. It also comes standard with a hands-free programmable liftgate. To activate it, you simply place your foot beneath a sensor under the rear bumper on the driver's side.

The Yukon SLT also comes standard with leather-appointed seating, as well as heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row seating. Power folding also comes standard on the third row. To make the SLT a little more luxurious, the interior features a heated steering wheel for colder days. You can get all this for a starting MSRP of $59,890.

The Yukon XL SLT is similarly equipped for a starting MSRP of $62,690.

Denali

The 2019 GMC Yukon Denali challenges the Cadillac Escalade at a lower cost of $68,990. For comparison, the base Cadillac Escalade starts at $76,490. The first major difference found on the Denali trim is the upgraded engine. The larger 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 is capable of 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

On the exterior, the Denali has a unique honeycomb grille not found on other trim models. It also has standard HID headlamps, accented door handles and roof rails, and 20-inch polished aluminum wheels. Previous trims had 18-inch wheels. To make climbing aboard easier, the Denali also has optional power-retractable assist steps which deploy when needed.

The interior of the 2019 Yukon Denali receives the same luxurious treatment with Mastique ash wood accents and an eight-inch GMC infotainment system with navigation. The audio also improves significantly with the addition of Bose Centerpoint surround sound audio. As if that wasn’t enough, the Yukon Denali also utilizes active noise cancellation to isolate exterior sounds. There's even a head-up display.

The 2019 GM Yukon XL Denali has the same features for an MSRP of $71,790 (still cheaper than an Escalade, we might add).

Last Updated: January 10, 2019