GMC Yukon - The Power of General Motors
The 2010 GMC Yukon is almost an unchanged version of last year's model, with the exception of few minor modifications. It is introduced in gas, electric, and hybrid model. This is a large SUV that can accommodate up to nine members and shares its conventional architecture with the Chevrolet Suburban, Chevy Tahoe, as well as the executive class Cadillac Escalade. Yukon XL has extended wheelbase, and Yukon has the usual wheelbase configuration. In comparison to the base version, the XL models have larger 14-inch wheelbase of about 14 inches, and much spacious cargo space. The XL trim has three-quarter-ton 2500 and half-ton 1500 configurations.
The 2010 GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe are most differentiated up front, with each sporting its own grille, hood, fascia and headlights. The variation continues down the sides and to the back with unique trim, wheels and taillamps. Yukon Denali models are further distinguished by a signature perforated grille, modified headlights and taillamps, revised front and rear fascias, distinctive 18-inch wheels (with unique 20-inchers available), chrome-accented side moldings and unique side steps.
Majority of the models have a 5.3-liter V8 engine that gives 320 hp and 310 hp in conventional-length wagon and XL respectively. Power level of about 403-hp is produced by a 6.2-liter V8 engine incorporated in theYukon Denalis. Particular Yukons with rear-drive are installed as XFE that are meant for additional fuel economy. These versions have tires that have low-rolling-resistance, aerodynamic tweaks, and powertrain to boost up the fuel economy. All these versions are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and it can run with E85 ethanol-blended fuel as well. The non-XL Yukons have the towing capacity of about 8600 lbs, while XL can tow up to 9600 lbs.
New for 2010 is OnStar 8.2 with long range remote start and traffic control, a center console-mounted USB port and enhanced battery charging for some handheld devices. Under the Yukon's hood, the 5.3-liter V8 is now E85-compatible, while the big Yukon Denali's 6.2-liter V8 gains Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Other mechanical changes include a new 3.08 rear axle on Denali for improved fuel economy and an available two-speed transfer case on four-wheel-drive models.
With a stiff, fully-boxed frame, revised suspension and greatly improved steering and braking characteristics, the 2010 GMC Yukon is by far the best handling full-size SUV ever to wear a GMC badge. It responds with confidence to both the driver and the road while also providing more accurate feedback. Crisp and alert around town (for a tall SUV weighing well over 2.5 tons, of course), comfortable and stable on the highway, the latest Yukon provides the driver a level of confidence unapproached by its predecessors - an experience good enough to qualify GMC's newest full-size SUV as one of the category's best.
The 2010 GMC Yukon's interior can be configured with any number of seating positions from six to nine, with each row available in two- or three-passenger layouts. Other seating options include GMC Yukon Accessories leather, first-row heated seats and power fold-and-flip second-row seats (all standard on the Denali). Getting past the seats, the Yukon's passenger cabin is so attractive, comfortable and refined as to make the previous-generation's cabin feel downright old-fashioned. Where lower-cost materials still exist, they aren't as conspicuous as in the past. Again, the vehicle's weakest link in some people's eyes will be the lack of a fold-flat rear seat.
The trims Yukon XL and Yukon are available in luxury Denali, SLT, and SLE models. All models are designed with rear wheel drive. The models SLT and SLE have elective standard 4-wheel drive that should be keep busy on dehydrated pavement along with a low-range gearing. Without low-range gearing the models Denalis are offering all-wheel drive.