2018 GMC Yukon Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Sometimes a crossover vehicle or mid-sized SUV just won't cut it. For some consumers, you have to go big to get the power, performance and interior space that you need. If you're in the market for a full-size SUV, then the 2018 GMC Yukon is a good choice. The Yukon seats up to eight passengers and has a ton of cargo space.

What's New For 2018

New for 2018 are some minor cosmetic upgrades. These appear on both the standard and the XL models. The Yukon XLs have a longer wheelbase than the standard versions. The high-end Denali models get an automatic, 10-speed transmission this year.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 GMC Yukon – The Pros

1. Good Performance

Within the various trim packages, you can have one of two different engines in the 2018 GMC Yukon. Both are powerful V-8s. One is a 5.3-liter that creates 355 hp with lb-ft of torque. This is on every trim level besides the premium Denali edition, which features a 6.2-liter.

Both engines offer plenty of power for acceleration, work duty or off-road adventures. The base engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Denali gets a 10-speed automatic. Both transmission systems work smoothly. They shift exactly when they need to without any problems.

2. Nice Handling and Maneuverability

The Yukon allows the driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD. In 2WD you can get better fuel economy. In 4WD you get better control on slick roads or rough terrain. The Maneuverability of the Yukon is downright surprising when you consider the size of this vehicle. Steering is tight and responsive. Braking feels firm and as solid as it should for stopping an SUV of this size.

3. Powerful V-8 Engine With Denali Trim

The Denali edition of the Yukon features a monster of an engine. The base engine alone is quite powerful, but if that's not enough, GMC has you covered. The 6.2-liter V-8 produces an impressive 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is excellent for an SUV when you have this engine. Towing and hauling cargo is a breeze for the Yukon's power plant.

4. Aerodynamic Design For an SUV

The exterior design of the 2018 GMC Yukon is attractive and elegant. The bold lines were designed with aerodynamics in mind. The shape, curves and inlaid doors all work together to achieve this goal. As a result, the Yukon is more fuel efficient. Passengers will also experience much less wind noise while on the road.

5. A Quiet and Comfortable Ride

The 2018 GMC Yukon provides a comfortable ride. The seats are plush, comfy and well designed. There is plenty of space for the driver and for passengers in any row. Head, elbow and leg room is generous in all areas of the interior. The interior remains quiet due to good aerodynamics and sound insulation. This is a great vehicle to take long road trips in.

6. Nice Infotainment System

All models of the 2018 GMC Yukon come with a nice, modern infotainment system. A wireless charging mat allows you to keep your phones and devices powered up without the hassle of cables. Most of the features can be accessed through voice commands. The 8" screen is large and features clear, sharp graphics. The sound system in all models is also fantastic. The rear seats feature an entertainment center as well.

7. Cargo Space and Convenience

The GMC Yukon provides 94.7 cubic feet of storage space in standard models. If you choose an XL model with a longer wheelbase, you get 121.1 cubic feet. There should be plenty enough room to haul passengers and cargo to your destination.

8. Plenty of Trim and Configuration Options

The Yukon comes in a variety of trim levels and configurations to choose from. You have standard and longer wheelbase models. You can also select 2WD or 4WD versions. The SLE and SLT base models still come with a surprising amount of luxury features. And if money is no object, the Denali models are packed with features and even more power.

9. Off-Road and Towing Capabilities

The GMC Yukon performs well in off-road driving. It also has the ability to tow up to 8,500 pounds on the 4WD base models. Denali models can handle even more than that with their more powerful engines.

10. Good Safety Features and Test Results

The 2018 Yukon received four out of five stars in crash tests from the NHTSA. The standard models also come with a lot of nice safety features. Driver assistance systems such as lane assist, automatic braking and rear-view cameras are all included.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 GMC Yukon – The Cons

1. The Ride Quality Can Be Rough

Most configurations and trims of the 2018 GMC Yukon provide for a comfortable ride. The exception is when you select bigger wheels. For some reason, the largest wheel choices just do not soak up as many of the bumps as the smaller wheels do.

2. Higher-Level Trims are Pricey

The 2018 GMC Yukon is an expensive vehicle. This is compounded exponentially once you start moving up the trim-package ladder. The Denali models are amazing, but for many they may be cost prohibitive.

3. Fuel Economy is Average

Fuel economy is never a great selling point for SUVs. At least not yet. The Yukon isn't terrible, but it's not the best in its class either. It falls somewhere in the middle of the pack. If you need an SUV with good fuel economy, this isn't it. The best you can hope for with a 2WD is 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

How it Stacks up to the Competition

The main competition for the 2018 GMC Yukon is the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition and the Dodge Durango. The GMC Yukon is actually based on the Chevy Tahoe. The Tahoe is much less expensive. The Yukon has a better fit, finish and quality on the interior. Most of the other categories are a tie for these two, but the Denali edition of the Yukon has the most power.

When compared to the Ford, the Yukon comes out on top again in the power department. The Ford is a bit less expensive and all other categories are similar. The Dodge Durango is also similar in most categories, but does not have the power or posh interior of the Yukon.

Conclusion

If you have a lot of passengers or cargo to haul, the Yukon will let you do it in comfort and style. This large, expensive gas guzzler is not for everyone. For its target market, it's one of the best in its class.