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    Categories: GMCGMC

2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid

America’s first, full-size SUV hybrid, is the 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid. This four-door, eight-passenger sport-utility vehicle has 66-percent better fuel economy in the city, and is available in two trims. The two and 4-wheel drive trims offered, can run on fuel, electricity, or both power sources, depending on driving demand.

Because of regenerative braking, the battery requires no plug-in recharging. This hybrid comes with many standard features, as well as an aerodynamic exterior and handsome trim details.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Full-Size Hybrid SUV Base Price: $52,470.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24 gallons (90l) MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 202 in. (513 cm) Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 76.9 in. (195.3 cm) Width: 79 in. (200.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5645 lbs (2560 kg) Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (22.8 cm)
Cargo Capacity(>2nd seat): 49.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: Hybrid Vortec V8 Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 332 HP Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Transmission: 2-Mode Hybrid Propulsion
Max Towing Capacity: 6200 lbs (2812 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Yukon Hybrid 4WD MSRP: $55,280; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:Denali Hybrid 5HY 2WD MSRP: $60,285; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:Denali Hybrid 5HY 4WD MSRP: $63,130; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Hybrid Engine & Battery

The Yukon Hybrid has a 6.0-liter Vortec V-8 LIVC SFI engine with variable valve timing, which achieves maximum power for a wide range of engine speeds and promotes a smooth ride, and quick response. Yukon delivers 332 horsepower at 5100 rpm, with 367 lb-ft at 4100 rpm torque. The 300-volt hybrid battery pack (730 amps) is located under the second-row seat cushion.

The two-mode hybrid system of the Yukon Hybrid was developed by GM, along with BMW, Daimler, and Chrysler. The Yukon can accelerate on battery power, engine power, or a mix. The control module determines from driving demand, and selects the appropriate mode. Using a combination of power offered by the hybrid, saves fuel, while still delivering enough power for easy driving.

Performance

The Yukon Hybrid’s premium, smooth-ride suspension is composed of independent coil-over-shock front suspension, and multi-link with coil springs rear suspension. The Yukon exhibits crisp steering, smooth shifts, and strong acceleration, with accurate handling at higher speeds.

The dual emery source deliver power when you need it, and the transition between gas and electric power is smooth, and easy. The Yukon can achieve 20 miles per gallon in the city, and 23 miles per gallon on the highway, with a 24-gallon fuel capacity.

This GMC hybrid is equipped with 4-wheel drive, anti-lock, disc brakes, and has the maximum conventional trailering ability of 6,200 pounds in the 2-wheel drive trim, and 5,900 pounds in the 4-wheel drive trim. GMC offers 96 months, 100,000 mile towing coverage with courtesy transportation, and 60 months, 100,000 mile powertrain warranties.

Exterior

The Yukon has a more contoured look, which is styled to maximize aerodynamics. The leading edge of the hood is streamlined, with a lower front, and the assist steps are aero-enhanced. The hood and lift-gate are aluminum, to reduce the weight, which is another aerodynamic refinement.

The Yukon comes in carbon and onyx black, silver, gray, red, white, and mocha colors, with 18-inch polished aluminum, lightweight wheels, that are exclusive to the hybrid.

Power-retractable side mirrors, aluminized stainless-steel muffler and tailpipe, 18-inch all-season, blackwall tires and heavy-duty trailering equipment, show that this hybrid has the power of a utility vehicle. The exterior is finished with daytime, dual-halogen composite headlights, a solar-ray, deeply tinted glass, and a power sunroof. It provides luxury and utility in one vehicle.

Interior

The interior is loaded with standard luxury features such as SiriusXM stereo, CD and MP3 player with navigation, and a 9-speaker Bose audio system. Other features offered are Bluetooth, NavTraffic, a tri-zone automatic climate control, rear-vision camera, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starter system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable, heated, folding outside mirrors, and a three-prong power outlet for convenience.

Comfort is highlighted by leather bucket seats. The second row is bench, 60/40, split-folding, with leather and chrome details, while the third row is 50/50 split-bench seating. There is a maximum of 108.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity. A rear entertainment system package is available, including an 8-inch LCD screen with wireless headphones.

Safety

The Yukon has standard air bags for the driver and front passenger, with head-curtain, side-impact, and seat-mounted, side impact safety. Ultrasonic rear parking assist is provided, along with OnStar crash response, and access to monthly vehicle diagnostics.

Side-guard door beams, and vehicle theft tracking notification are other safety measures provided by GMC. The Yukon received excellent crash test scores, and that is important because of the roll-over crash rate of taller sport-utility vehicles.

Comparisons

The Ford Expedition offers many of the same features, but also an extended wheelbase body style. It is less expensive as well, but lacks in fuel economy, compared to the Yukon Hybrid.

The Nissan Armada and Toyota Sequoia are less expensive, but with less horsepower and less fuel mileage. The advantages of the Yukon are great acceleration, a smooth ride, maximum cargo space, and a luxurious interior with many standard features offered.

There is little room for passenger comfort offered in the third-row seating, and is quite cramped for adults, but would be adequate for children. It would definitely be an asset for a bigger family who likes to travel on a budget. The 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid is recommended for those who need a powerful vehicle, good fuel economy, and room for many passengers and/or cargo to ride smoothly in luxury.

When luxury hybrid SUVs come to mind, very few can be compared to the Yukon Hybrid. Two come to mind when comparing features, these include the Ford Expedition (MSRP $45,270; 14 city / 20 hwy) and Toyota Sequoia 5.7L limited (MSRP $51,040; 13 city / 18 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid adds a new hard-drive navigation AM/FM/XM radio with Time Shift Recording capability and available SiriusXM Weather ServiceNew exterior colors are Crystal Red Tintcoat, Quicksilver Metallic and Steel Gray Metallic.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re not one who feels comfortable being pushed into a smaller crossover SUV just for the sake of fuel efficiency, the 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid might be your savior.”KBB

“Impressive fuel economy in city operation; handsome cabin with solid build quality; comfortable ride; seats eight passengers… Expensive; non-foldaway third-row seats must be removed and stored; not as user-friendly as many fuel-efficient crossover alternatives.”Edmunds

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