The 2011 GMC Yukon is one of the available affordable large Sports Utility Vehicles today. A sports utility vehicle is usually built on a light-truck chassis, equipped with a four-wheel drive for an on-road or off-road capability.
Its fuel efficiency is a standard feature, very ordinary when it comes to all brands and models from the General Motors Corporation.
There are seven other affordable large SUVs in the market of which the GMC Yukon ranks the fourth on analysis of published reviews and test drive feedbacks. Topping this same list though are two models from GMCs corporate cousin, the Chevrolet. The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is number 1 on the list, while the 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is closely behind at number 2.
Performance
The Yukon is the vehicle with a large seating capacity, comfortable interior space that can do some effortless towing at the same time. Performance-wise, it is highly superior and very capable. To bring about these qualities, it is backed by the following features: Flexfuel Capability Vortec V8, Active Fuel Management and Standard Coil-over-shock Suspension.
Exterior & Interior
On the exterior, reviews rave about its silent elegance and classic look. It doesn’t shout its presence on the road but cruises along stylishly. It has a power lift rear gate that addresses both convenience and aesthetics. On the interior, it is spacious to accommodate nine adults with enough elbow room and leg room. It makes every passenger feel at home. The GMCs masculinity, though, is subtly incorporated in the interior features. It is fitted with power fold and tumble seats for spaciousness and interior flexibility.
The Yukon is a tech filled SUV as well. It is equipped with XM Radio and Available XM Navtraffic, Sideblind Zone Alert, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist for graceful cruising, maneuvering, backing and parking. It is ready with the following gadgets and communications capabilities: DVD Entertainment System, Bluetooth, a Rearview Camera System, Touchscreen Navigation System, and Onstar services.
Safety is one strong characteristic of the Yukon. It has scored high in crash tests on the front and side collisions performed by the federal government. In fact, it offers 360 degrees of protection for maximum safety of all passengers making it a favorite among safety conscious car owners.
Largely because of its affordability, it puts more value on the space rather than the luxury. It is more to be recognized for its practicability, with the perfect blend of looks, comfort, function, size, use and price. More often than not, it is practically considered as an alternative to more expensive and gas guzzling vehicles.
The Competition
The Chevrolet Tahoe (MSRP $37,980; 15 city / 21 hwy) occupies the top spot in the affordable large SUVs category. A place it so deserves after having flawlessly executed an SUV that has size, power and comfort. The Tahoe is large, but it is light to drive. It has power but it is fuel efficient. It is comfortable and has a pleasing interior.
The Toyota Sequoia (MSRP $40,930; 14 city / 20 hwy), is ranked 3rd, one place higher that the Yukon, often find the former as its closest rival. The competition boils down to the Sequoia’s better driveability and more luxurious interior. In fact the 2011 Best Affordable Large SUVs for Families Award was given to the Toyota Sequoia.
Overall Rating
What others say:
“The 2011 GMC Yukon offers a spacious interior and refined ride, though the third row can be disappointing.”Car Connection
“Yukons suffer relatively little noseplow and body lean in turns, though you would never mistake these SUVs for sport sedans.”Consumer Guide
“The Yukon’s ride is supple and controlled, with seating for seven or eight and good interior quality. But there is little cargo room behind the cramped third-row seat. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The 2011 GMC Yukon is a leading choice for a traditional large SUV thanks to its comfortable cabin and strong towing and hauling capabilities. But for many people, a large crossover SUV might work out better.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $38,945.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98 liters) | MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy |
| Length: 202 in. (513 cm) | Width: 79 in. (200 cm) |
| Height: 76.9 in. (195 cm) | Wheel Base: 116 in. (294 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 5630 lbs (2553 kg) | Ground Clearance: 9 in. (22.8 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity(2nd row): 60.3 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 7 people |
| Engine: Vortec V8 OHV | Displacement: 5.3 Liter |
| Horsepower: 320 HP | Max RPM: 5400 RPM |
| Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: NA | Max Towing Capacity: 8400 lbs (3810 kgs) |
| Option:Yukon SLT | MSRP: $44,460; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy |
| Option:Yukon Denali | MSRP: $53,650; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
