2026 GMC Yukon

Overview

The GMC Yukon has long been a somewhat half-hearted middle ground between the working-class Chevrolet Tahoe and the more luxurious and status-conscious Cadillac Escalade. But with a recent overhaul for the 2025 model year, the GMC Yukon finally seems to have found a place for itself. As a full-size SUV with up to 144.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity (in the longer Yukon XL) and capable of towing 8,400 pounds, the Yukon can still handle its business. The refreshed Yukon also received a welcome dose of modern luxury and now offers tech and features similar to what's available in the Cadillac Escalade.

Edmunds spotlight: Powertrains galore

The Yukon continues to offer buyers the choice of three engines in nearly every trim level, which is almost unheard of these days. There are two V8s: a 5.3-liter (355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque), a stout 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft), and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel (305 hp, 495 lb-ft). All engines are bolted to a 10-speed automatic, and the Yukon can be had in either rear- or four-wheel drive.

Competitors to consider

The closest competition comes from within the Yukon's own corporate office. The Chevy Tahoe and Cadillac's Escalade are made of mostly the same parts and use styling and feature content to differentiate themselves from the GMC. Ford offers the Expedition, also available in an extended-length version, and Jeep has the Wagoneer. If your loyalty lies with Toyota, its full-size Sequoia SUV is an option, as is Nissan's redesigned Armada.

The GMC Yukon offers a good balance of features, flexibility, and capability to go with its distinctive styling. Thanks to a recent significant refresh, we don't anticipate any changes in the near future for one of our favorite full-size SUVs.