When you are looking for a tough and rugged SUV capable of seating more than the standard five passengers, the 2016 GMC Yukon XL is a great place to begin your search.
The Yukon XL has seating for eight, an enormous towing capacity and has an impressive 0-60 time. Additionally, for the 2016 model year, GMC has improved the Yukon but upgrading its technology features and hardware.
While there are many luxurious big SUVs on the market, the Yukon utilizes a classic body-on-frame construction, a sleek design and exceptional power.
GMC has given the 2016 Yukon XL a modern and simple design with clean lines and plenty of tech features. This is not to say that GMC has neglected to emphasize strength; the 2016 Yukon can tow up to 8,100 pounds. Not only will you be able to tow an impressive amount of weight — enough to easily drag along a large trailer — but you also will be able to do this while chauffeuring your seven other passengers.
Depending on the seating arrangement you select, however, you can seat up to nine people in total. The available 40/20/40-split front bench option allows for maximum passengers while the second-row captain’s chairs only allow for seven. Moreover, you’ll be sure to find a plentiful amount of room in both the second and third rows, ensuring a comfortable ride for every passenger.
There are three trims to choose from: the SLE, SLT and Denali. I test drove the latter but the SLE trim includes the following and more: Bluetooth, IntelliLink touchscreen interface, front and rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, blind-spot mirror, side assist steps, five USB ports, SD card slot, automatic wipers, a rearview camera, remote ignition, roof rails, keyless entry, AUX cord input and a nine- speaker Bose audio system. The latter is especially enjoyable in the Yukon’s quiet cabin. GMC has not only emphasized improving tech features, but has also focused on lessening cabin noise by using noise-dampening materials.
The Denali trim replaces the standard 5.3-liter V8 engine with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that pumps our 420 horsepower and is capable of 460 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the the standard Yukon engine, which has 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. For both options, you can choose between four-wheel and rear- wheel drives. The MPG for the standard 5.3-liter engine is 16 city/23 highway while the Denali has a fuel economy of 14 city/20 highway.
The 2016 GMC Yukon XL is a massive SUV that is powerful, quick and quiet. While there are a few large SUV options on the market, not many seat up to nine so comfortably and boast as many standard features as the Yukon. Additionally, its body-on-frame design makes the Yukon a stable and confident ride.
When considering its enormous size, the Yukon does not fail to impress with its speed, performance and exceptionally quiet ride. If you need to tow your large family and all your outdoor equipment, the 2016 GMC Yukon XL should be the first SUV you consider.
The MSRP for the 2016 GMC Yukon XL starts at $51,015.
