GMC Yukon XL 2016 with 14 inch Longer wheelbase

GMC Yukon XL 2016 14 inch longer wheelbase google doc

Drivers  seeking the largest and most capable SUV on the U.S. market would be wise to begin with the three offered by General Motors. The Yukon XL is GMC’s version of the long-wheelbase, 3-row SUV at the top of the size range in the U.S. Market. GMC’s core values of value, durability, and newfound luxury are on full display in this largest of the vehicles GM builds for families.

The 2016 GMC Yukon XL features a 14-inch-longer wheelbase than the Yukon. This results in the vehicle being over 20 inches longer overall. Those almost 2 feet are used primarily in the rear cargo area. The Yukon makes no sacrifices in space. The front driver and passenger are awash in room. The second-row bench can seat 3 adults, or your Yukon XL can come with captain’s chairs in the second row, making that space limo-like. The third row is also very large. The Yukon XL can seat up to 9 passengers depending on its configuration.

GMC Yukon XL 2016 14 inch longer wheelbase google doc

Behind all those rows, the cargo area is not big, but huge. Dropping the third and second rows is a snap, too, with the Yukon’s available power folding option. It is a long walk to the second-row doors to do that manually, so this is one option you may want to get. The Yukon XL also folds its seats flat. The amount of cargo space when only the driver's seat is in use is almost ridiculous. That's not what makes the Yukon XL so impressive, though. Rather, it's the no-compromise way one can transport, say 4 pee-wee hockey players and all their equipment in comfort using only the inside of the vehicle. Use the roof and rear cargo area and you could fit as many as 8 players and their stuff (not counting the coach in the driver’s seat). The 2016 GMC Yukon XL goes way beyond the space of a minivan.  

GMC Yukon XL 2016 14 inch longer wheelbase google doc

One would want the Yukon XL’s cavernous space causes pain at the pump, but that's not the case. The Yukon’s 5.3-liter V8 engine is one of the most efficient on the market and can disable cylinders when they're not needed. The 4WD Yukon is rated at 15 mpg city/22 highway/18 combined. That's surprisingly good mileage for any vehicle capable of handling 9 passengers plus cargo. Those numbers bump up by 1 mpg for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Yukon XLs.

The Yukon XL is a truck under the skin, and that yields benefits when it comes to trailering.  All Yukon XLs can tow up to 6,600 pounds. However, equipped with the HD trailering package, that jumps to 8,300 pounds. Yukon XLs can also handle a payload of 1,750 pounds. Like a truck, a locking rear differential is standard, as is powertrain grade-braking. Those interested in trailering should speak to a dealer expert to get the full rundown of the features available.

The Yukon line was completely overhauled in 2015, and the new generation has a distinctive new exterior style. The look is more angular or boxy and looks imposing. For 2016, new additions include:
- Enhanced driver-alert systems, such as Lane Keep Assist
- Intellibeam headlamps with auto-high-beam control
- Hands-free liftgate for SLT trims
- Optional liftgate shield with better inclination sensing
- Standard capless fuel fill
- New Crimson Red Tintcoat color and White Frost Tricoat color (SLT only)

GMC Yukon XL 2016 14 inch longer wheelbase google doc

The 2016 GMC Yukon XL comes in two basic trim levels. The basic level is SLE, and the up-featured trim is called SLT. The SLT adds many features we have come to expect in expensive vehicles—for example, keyless entry, heated and cooled seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and push-button start. Those who want to configure their Yukon XL for maximum comfort and convenience should also look closely at the Yukon Denali XL. The Denali line steps up the features and capabilities quite a bit. (We cover that model separately.)  

GMC Yukon XL 2016 14 inch longer wheelbase google doc

All 2016 Yukon XLs have a solid structure built for serenity. The glass is acoustic to reduce wind noise. Doors are designed to fit inside the vehicle’s structure for better sealing. The Cadillac Escalade uses the same basic structure as the Yukon XL.

Safety is improving on the Yukon line. Forward-collision prevention is available as an option and would seem a very wise choice. IIHS studies show that full-size SUVs like the Yukon XL have a lower death rate than average, and 4WD full-size SUVs have some of the lowest death rates of all vehicles.  

The 2016 GMC Yukon XL is a vehicle that's hard to ignore for anyone looking for a value-packed full-size SUV capable of carrying a large family with cargo and towing—all at once.