For 2005, the GMC Yukon receives StabiliTrak stability control on all models, an enhanced passenger safety belt reminder, improved fuel economy, two new exterior colours and OnStar Gen 6 hardware with upgraded hands-free capability. Available options include a DVD-based touch-screen navigation radio, and 17-inch Ultra Bright wheels as a stand-alone option.
In addition, the Yukon Denali also receives an increase of five horsepower, and available 20-inch chrome cast aluminum wheels.
GMC’s top-of-the-line SUV is available as the Yukon and the long-wheelbase Yukon XL, both in SLE, SLT and Denali trim. The Yukon comes with a 4.8-litre V8, the Yukon XL with a 5.3-litre V8, and both are available in two- or four-wheel-drive, the latter an Autotrac type with a locking differential. Both Denali models carry a 6.0-litre V8 and come in full time all-wheel-drive only, with a standard limited-slip differential. All models use a four-speed automatic transmission.
The Yukon also shows up over at Chevrolet, where it’s sold as the Tahoe and Suburban.
In both regular- and long-wheelbase models, the SLE comes with fog lights, heated power mirrors, roof rack side rails, 16-inch aluminum wheels, variable intermittent wipers, tri-zone manual climate control, programmable power locks, leather-wrapped wheel with auto controls, power windows, 40/20/40 split-bench front seat with six-way power driver’s adjuster, cloth interior, 60/40 folding second row bench, CD/cassette player, and OnStar.
The SLT adds power foldaway mirrors with puddle lights, integrated turn signals and driver’s side auto-dimming, 17-inch aluminum wheels, automatic climate control, HomeLink garage door opener, cargo net and cover, roof rack cross bars, power-adjustable pedals, leather interior, ten-way power adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory, Bose six-CD premium stereo and second-row audio controls with headphone jacks.
The Denali adds AutoRide control with automatic damping and self-levelling rear air suspension, heavy-duty trailer tow package including heavy-duty oil cooler, colour-keyed running boards, 17-inch polished aluminum wheels, automatic tri-zone climate control and wood accent trim.
The Yukon is a surprising vehicle: it looks big, heavy and rough, but it’s actually very easy to drive and has long-haul comfort that will get you from one end of Canada to the other without even thinking about it. Well, you’ll give it some thought when you have to find yet another gas station, but until then, it’s a smooth ride.
The Yukon is built in Janesville, Wisconsin and Arlington, Texas; the Yukon XL is built in Janesville, Wisconsin and Silao, Mexico; the Denali is built in Janesville, Wisconsin.
