2018 GMC Yukon Denali Preview
CARS.COM
Competes with: Lincoln Navigator, Infiniti QX80, Toyota Sequoia
Looks like: The GMC Yukon Denali you know, now with a new grille
Drivetrain: 420-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 engine with 10-speed automatic transmission; rear- or four-wheel drive
Hits dealerships: Fall 2017
The high-end Denali version of the GMC Yukon full-size SUV has been a popular model, accounting for more than half of all Yukon sales, according to GMC. For the 2018 model year, the Yukon Denali receives styling and drivetrain updates, including a new 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s offered in regular-length Yukon and extended-length Yukon XL versions, both of which have three rows of seats. It hits dealerships this fall.
Related: 2018 GMC Terrain Starts at $25,970
Exterior
A new grille is the most significant exterior change for the 2018 Yukon Denali. GMC says the big grille has a layered appearance like the ones on its Acadia and Terrain SUVs, and it’s bordered by high-intensity-discharge headlights and LED daytime running lights. GMC says the new grille provides better airflow to the radiator, and when less cooling air is needed, shutters behind the grille close to improve aerodynamics and increase efficiency.
The Yukon Denali has standard 20-inch wheels; 22-inch wheels are available, as well as a hands-free power liftgate.
Interior
Changes to the cabin include new ash wood trim that GMC says gives the cabin a richer appearance. Available features include an 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, a navigation system, an active noise cancellation system, a head-up display, wireless device charging and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot. Also available are heated and ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats.
Under the Hood
Power comes from a 420-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 engine that incorporates fuel-saving cylinder-deactivation technology. The V-8 drives a new 10-speed automatic transmission, which replaces last year’s eight-speed automatic. A Magnetic Ride Control suspension and an automatic locking rear differential are available.
