2012 GMC Yukon Review
Price Estimate: $7,892 - $10,718





+143
Oops, we can’t seem to locate you.
Please enter U.S. ZIP code to see vehicles for sale
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Seats as many as nine people
- stout towing capability
- comfortable ride
- smooth powertrains
- good fit and finish.
Cons
- Third-row seat doesn't stow away or fold flat
- lacks a telescoping steering wheel.
What’s new
For the 2012 GMC Yukon, the optional navigation system is now hard-drive based, providing quicker responses and digital music storage capability. On upper trims, a heated steering wheel is now standard.
Edmunds says
The 2012 GMC Yukon is a leading choice for a traditional large SUV thanks to its comfortable cabin and strong towing and hauling capabilities. But for many people, a large crossover SUV might work out better.
For sale nearby
112 listings
- $6,995great price$4,033 below market
- 172,060 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 8cyl automatic
- Redwood Auto Sales (157 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Redwood Falls, MN
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
15 Combined MPG (13 City/18 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GKS2EEFXCR157312
Stock: 052133
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 05-06-2025 - $12,999
- 180,933 miles
- No accidents, 4 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 8cyl automatic
- 5 Star Motors (168 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Third-row seating
Close
Located in Mandan, ND
Heated leather seats Middle captain chairs Seats 7 Tow package Aftermarket Sony stereo Remote start Aftermarket wheels Warranty Available Read Mo...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (15 City/21 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1GKS2CE07CR223010
Stock: B7820
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 10-11-2023
Vehicle overview
As even the most casual observer would note, the 2012 GMC Yukon is essentially an identical twin to its Chevy Tahoe relative. Sure, minor styling differences of the front and rear ends lend some distinction, but otherwise these two full-size SUVs share the same strengths and weaknesses. Thankfully, there are much more of the former than the latter.
Sporting standard V8 power, a burly frame, up to nine-passenger capacity and the ability to tow up to 8,400 pounds, the Yukon remains one of the best choices in the dwindling class of truck-based SUVs. Additional strengths include reasonably composed ride and handling and a handsome cabin with high-quality materials.
As rugged, tow-ready vehicles go, the 2012 GMC Yukon (or its Tahoe sibling) remains one of the best. The Ford Expedition could also be considered; it isn't as powerful but does offer a fold-away third-row seat. The Toyota Sequoia is likely the Yukon's most serious competitor, as it provides a similar mix of performance and utility.
But unless you need those prodigious abilities, a large crossover SUV will likely be a better choice. The GMC Acadia, for example, drives more comfortably, gets higher fuel economy and has a third-row seat that's roomier, easier to reach and conveniently folds down into the cargo floor. The Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer are two other top models to consider.
Performance & mpg
The 2012 GMC Yukon SLE and SLT are powered by a 5.3-liter V8 good for 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive is standard. There are two four-wheel-drive systems available: a single-speed transfer case and a more traditional two-speed case with low-range gearing for low-traction situations.
The Yukon's Tahoe sibling with four-wheel drive went from zero to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds. Estimated fuel economy is 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined with rear- or four-wheel drive. Depending on drivetrain and equipment, the Yukon can tow as much as 8,400 pounds.
The GMC Yukon Denali gets a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 403 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic with manual shift capability is standard. In Edmunds testing, the mechanically similar Cadillac Escalade went from zero to 60 mph in a quick 7.5 seconds. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 13/18/15.
Safety
The 2012 GMC Yukon comes standard with antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and OnStar emergency telematics. Rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are available on all Yukons, while the SLT-2 and Denali can be had with a blind-spot warning system.
In government crash testing, the Yukon earned an overall rating of four stars (out of a possible five), with five stars for overall frontal crash protection and five stars for overall side crash protection. Its three-star rollover rating resulted in its lower overall score.
In Edmunds brake testing of the related Tahoe, the Yukon came to a stop from 60 mph in 134 feet, an average distance for this type of vehicle.
Driving
The 2012 GMC Yukon excels at highway cruising. The cabin is quiet and the suspension smoothes the bumps without making handling in the corners feel sloppy. The Yukon's relatively compact 39-foot turning circle also makes this big SUV reasonably maneuverable in town. Still, the Yukon doesn't feel particularly agile in traffic and also exhibits some vagueness in its steering. It feels right at home when towing a trailer, however, cruising effortlessly and easily maintaining speed up long grades. The Denali shares the Escalade's potent 6.2-liter V8 and is thus notably quick for such a sizable vehicle.
Interior
The GMC Yukon boasts an attractive cabin with high-quality materials. The control layout is simple and straightforward, and the available navigation system is also easy to use (despite a smaller screen than newer GM models) and includes digital music storage. The front seats are comfortable, though the lack of a telescoping steering wheel might be a drawback for some drivers. The Yukon can carry up to nine passengers, making it one of the most versatile utility vehicles in that regard. However, those in the rearmost row will find limited legroom due to a low-mounted seat cushion.
That third-row seat also poses problems for cargo capacity, as it doesn't fold away into the floor. You must either fold the seatback down and place your stuff on top or physically remove the heavy seat from the truck. Once you do, 109 cubic feet of cargo space are available.
2012 GMC Yukon models
The 2012 GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV with three rows of seats that can accommodate as many as nine people. There are three trim levels available: SLE, SLT and Denali. There is a Hybrid model and an extended-length version known as the Yukon XL; both are both covered in separate reviews.
The SLE comes standard with 17-inch wheels, roof rails, automatic headlights, running boards, heated outside mirrors, tri-zone automatic climate control, cruise control, six-way power front bucket seats (manual recline), a leather-wrapped tilt-only steering wheel, Bluetooth, OnStar and a nine-speaker Bose sound system with satellite radio, iPod/USB interface, auxiliary audio jack, CD player and rear seat headphone jacks. The SLE can be optioned with a 40/20/40-split three-person front bench seat that raises seating capacity from eight to nine people. A Convenience package adds rear parking sensors, remote engine start, a rearview camera (with mirror display) and power-adjustable pedals.
The SLT adds foglamps, leather upholstery, the Convenience package and the expanded availability of optional content. Options include an Off-Road Suspension package, heated eight-way power front seats with driver memory, ventilated front seats, second-row captain's chairs and a navigation system (with real-time traffic, music storage and an auto-dimming rearview mirror). The SLT-2 Equipment package adds a power liftgate, power-folding mirrors, a heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats and a second-row power seat release.
The Denali includes the above (less the Off-Road package) plus 20-inch alloy wheels, an automatic damping suspension, unique styling cues, additional interior sound insulation, a blind-spot warning system and a 10-speaker surround-sound Bose audio system.
Some of the upper trims' features are available as options on the lower trims, while a sunroof and rear-seat entertainment system are optional for every Yukon.

2026 GMC Terrain First Drive: Stretching Upmarket

Ford F-150 vs. Chevy Silverado vs. GMC Sierra vs. Ram 1500 vs. Toyota Tundra: Every Full-Size Truck Compared

GMC Sierra EV Adds Less-Expensive AT4 and Elevation Trims for 2026

GMC Hummer EV SUV vs. Mercedes-Benz G-Class EV: Electric Off-Road Showdown
Compare 2012 GMC Yukon trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2012 GMC Yukon SLE 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.15 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$222/mo for Yukon SLE
Yukon SLE
vs
$227/mo
Avg. Large SUV
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#9 out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the GMC Yukon from 2008-2022.$638/yr
vs. $614/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.26x/yr
vs. 1.59x/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).19.3%
vs. 16.7%
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
GMC Yukon Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(63%)
4(11%)
3(3%)
2(5%)
1(18%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Engine failure at 110,000 miles
3 out of 5 starsFrank Pocino, 06/24/2016
2010 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
I had to replace my Yukon with brand new engine at 110,000 miles because of cam/lifter failure. No help from GM or dealer. Apparently I am not alone. I have owned four Yukons/Suburbans. This is my last.
Traditional SUV
4.88 out of 5 starsJames82, 07/26/2010
2010 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
After owning a 2000 Dodge Durango for 10 years it was time to replace it. I like the space and comfort that a traditional truck based SUV provides and the GMC Yukon did not disappoint. Even though the price tag was pushing close to a base Escalade, a fully loaded Denali seemed like a better choice. This car has an impressive tow rating which helps me for work, the fuel economy is as … expected from a large SUV and an average of 14 mpg city and 22 mpg highway is okay coming from a previous guzzler so I'm used to it. This car is the ultimate road trip car with lots of space and comfortable seats. A good family car that can also hold its own during offroading and one of the best SUVs you can buy.
Right choice
4.75 out of 5 starshjt777, 04/13/2011
2011 GMC Yukon Denali 4dr SUV AWD (6.2L 8cyl 6A)
I traded in my 8 year old Trailblazer on a 2011 Yukon Denali.
I'm hoping to get the same result with the Denali as having 0 problems in the future. Good to hope anyway.
The Suv drives real smooth on the road and is fun to drive.
Size works fine in the garage and the wife has no problems driving.
Rear view camera and nav are a welcome addition. no real negative comments as after 500 miles … I have zero buyers remorse.
gmc yukon is great!
5 out of 5 starswade, 10/06/2017
2011 GMC Yukon SLT 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A)
I have owned three tahoes and one yukon since year 2000. i have bought all brand new and done regular service. i have been very impressed with all. My 2011 gmc yukon i purchased new and is my daily driver. it has 78000. I have a third car i drive some so keeps the miles down on my yukon. the only problem i remember with my tahoes was a leaking sunroof on my 2004 which they never … fixed after two trips to dealer under warranty. i think it leaked since new only it didn't see rain much. My 2011 yukon has a funny shift pattern compared to my 2007 tahoe but i have gotten used to it. (I prefer the shift pattern of my 2007 chevrolet tahoe ltz.) i think my 2011 yukon shifts more for fuel economy reasons. About my 2011 yukon. the paint is good (diamond white tri-coat). looks new still. (i wash and wax it a lot.) Never a mechanical issue. I am on my third set of tires. (i like to replace tires well before they are worn.) 2nd battery. 1st one lasted almost 6 years. original brakes. interior has held up well. the ride is nice. handles well for a big vehicle. gas mileage is average for such a big vehicle. i just love my yukon and highly recommend it. the only problem i have had is that when i lock the vehicle and arm the alarm system after about 5 or 10 minutes sometimes the alarms sound for no reason. it is very annoying to people parked within earshot and i find myself leaving my car unlocked for this reason. i have never sent a review in like this before but have been looking at edmunds reviews lately for considering purchase of a third car and appreciate people who have written reviews. Update: my yukon now has 101000 miles. dealer says the original brakes still have plenty of life. I keep my yukon in the garage and wax it alot. it still looks brand new. i have recently noticed an occasional rattle in the left rear door panel. it still drives like new. i had an emission code for leaking gas cap but that is resolved now. very satisfied with this vehicle.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2012 GMC Yukon, so we've included reviews for other years of the Yukon since its last redesign.
2012 Yukon Highlights
SLE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $40,085 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $222/month |
Seating | 8 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.9 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Yukon include:
- Back-up camera
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover24.6%
People who viewed this also viewed
5.0 average Rating out of 3 reviews. |
Starting at $58,500 |
5.0 average Rating out of 2 reviews. |
Starting at $61,500 |
3.5 average Rating out of 6 reviews. |
Starting at $62,425 |
Related Used 2012 GMC Yukon info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- BMW M8 Gran Coupe 2021 Review
- Audi RS 6 2021 Review
- Kia Stinger 2020 Review
- Jaguar F Pace 2021 Review
- Mercedes Benz Gle Class 2021 Review
Shop similar models
- Used GMC Yukon-xl 2025
- Used Chevrolet Suburban 2025
- Used Chevrolet Tahoe 2025
- Used Cadillac Escalade 2025
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used GMC Jimmy 2014
- Used GMC Jimmy 2016
- Used GMC Jimmy 2019
- Used GMC Jimmy 2020
- Used GMC Jimmy 2023
- Used GMC Suburban 2012
- Used GMC Suburban 2013
- Used GMC Suburban 2015
- Used GMC Suburban 2016
- Used GMC Suburban 2017
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2025 Sonata
- Toyota 4Runner 2024
- Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 2025
- 2024 Camaro
- New Acura RDX
- Genesis G90 2025
- 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
- 2025 Kia Niro EV
- 2024 Honda Civic
- 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime
Research other models of GMC
- New GMC Sierra 1500
- 2024 GMC Sierra 3500HD
- GMC Acadia 2024
- 2024 GMC Terrain
- GMC Terrain 2025
- New GMC Suburban
- New GMC Sierra 2500HD
- 2025 GMC HUMMER EV SUV
- GMC HUMMER EV SUV 2024
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- New Ford F-150-Lightning for Sale in Smithtown, NY
- Used Volvo S70 in Wexford, PA 2000
- New Mercedes-Benz Amg-Gt for Sale in New York, NY
- Used Acura ZDX in Eastlake, OH 2024
- Used Acura Ilx in Jackson, MS 2022
- Used Mercury Grand-Marquis in Bronx, NY 2011
- Used Mazda B-Series in Sanford, NC 2001
- New Audi S-E-Tron-Gt for Sale in North Charleston, SC
- New Ford Transit-Cargo-Van for Sale in Joliet, IL
- Used Pontiac G5 in San Pedro, CA 2009