I’ll just say it: shopping for a vehicle is work. It would be nice if that wasn’t the case, but the reality is that treating it like a job can help you get the best results. That being said, just like any job, there are some shortcuts you can take and tips you can follow to make your work easier, which is precisely why I’m here to help. If you’re interested in a 2024 GMC Yukon, then you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m going to take you through the major available options for the Yukon (and the Yukon XL) to see what each brings to the road and try to figure out what is best for you.
First Thing: Yukon vs Yukon XL
The best place to start with the 2024 GMC Yukon is the two major options available to you: the standard Yukon and the larger Yukon XL. It’s easy to think that the XL might simply be a trim level for the Yukon, but that’s not the case. The Yukon XL should be seen as its own model separate from the Yukon; that being said, however, I should note that most of the features you can get on one can also be found on the other. But while there’s plenty of overlap in the options available to you, there are two separate models to choose from.
Essentially, the primary difference between them is that the Yukon XL is larger than the Yukon. I should mention that these are both full-size SUVs, so the Yukon isn’t small by any means; the Yukon XL is just an absolute beast of an SUV. Consider this: the Yukon is 210 inches in length, 81 inches wide, and stands just over 76 inches tall. Inside, you get seating for up to nine people, and you’ll find 25.5 cu.ft. of rear cargo volume, 72.6 cu.ft. of cargo space behind the second row, and 122.9 cu.ft. of total cargo room.
By comparison, the Yukon XL measures more than 225 inches in length (more than a foot longer). This extra length makes all the difference inside, where you get 41.5 cu.ft. of rear cargo space, 93.8 cu.ft. of cargo volume behind the second row, and 144.7 cu.ft. of total cargo room behind the front seats. The much longer wheelbase and overall length of the Yukon XL translate into a lot more room inside, so you’ll have to decide if you need all of that extra space or if the standard Yukon will work for you.
Next, Pick Your Engine
Beyond the difference in size, however, you’ll find pretty much all the same features on the Yukon and Yukon XL, starting with the engines available to you. The standard engine for the 2024 model is a 5.3L V8 that provides 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, which is plenty of muscle for many drivers. If you’re looking for a more muscular driving experience, then you should check out the available 6.2L V8 that boosts performance up to 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. This is excellent power in an SUV—even one this size—and it makes the Yukon a lot of fun to drive. The standard engine is solid, but I prefer this available option.
For something pretty unique in an SUV, there’s an available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine that puts out 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Honestly, for most drivers, the 6.2L V8 is what I’d suggest to get the most from your ride, but if you’re interested in the long-term reliability of a diesel, then this is a great choice. One thing I particularly like is that all three engines come paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for a smooth and responsive driving experience. You can also pair any of these engines with four-wheel drive—though I should note that some trims are four-wheel-drive-only, so keep that in mind when exploring your options.
Five Trim Levels to Choose From
Now that we’ve touched on the basic considerations let’s dig into the five trim levels that are offered for the Yukon and Yukon XL. I’m only going to hit some highlights for these trims, so be sure to look into any of them that you’re interested in for more specifics. All of these represent great options; they simply bring different things to the road.
GMC Yukon SLE
The SLE is the starting trim for the 2024 Yukon and Yukon XL, with standard features including the 5.3L V8 engine, 18-inch wheels, and black assist steps for getting in and out of the vehicle. Inside, the SLE features a 10.2-inch GMC Premium Infotainment system with Google built-in, featuring support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a six-speaker sound system and a 12-inch color Driver Information Center display. The SLE features cloth seating with a 10-way power driver’s seat, eight-way power front passenger seat, and tri-zone automatic climate control to ensure you and all of your passengers are comfortable. Best of all, you get a standard GMC Pro Safety suite of features, including Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, and more.
GMC Yukon SLT
With the SLT, you get a number of upgrades over the starting trim, including 20-inch wheels, though the same engine options are found here as on the SLE. A hands-free power liftgate makes it easy to get stuff in and out of the back of the Yukon SLT, while inside, you get heated and ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, and a nine-speaker Bose sound system. The SLT upgrades the Yukon with GMC Pro Safety Plus, which includes Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Rear Park Assist to help keep you safer.
GMC Yukon AT4
If you’re interested in taking your full-size SUV off-road, then the Yukon AT4 is the trim you should be looking at. You get four-wheel drive standard on the AT4, along with an Autotrac two-speed transfer case for better performance on the trail, 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, plus performance front skid plates, a unique front fascia with a high approach angle, and magnetic ride control for better performance both on and off the road. The AT4 comes with heated second-row seats and a heated steering wheel, which are perfect for cold winter mornings or going off-road in mountainous areas.
GMC Yukon Denali
For some of the best tech and luxury features available from GMC, the Yukon Denali is a great choice. This model comes with nice exterior touches like satin chrome bodyside moldings, plus upgraded safety features like Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking. Inside the Denali, you’ll find a number of impressive tech features, like a 15-inch multicolor head-up display projected onto the windshield and a 14-speaker Bose Surround CenterPoint audio system. For most folks, this is plenty of luxury, but GMC has taken things a step further.
GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate
Living up to its name, the Denali Ultimate is the ultimate expression of sophistication for the Yukon and Yukon XL. It has 22-inch wheels for an intimidating and powerful stance, plus Vader Chrome bodyside moldings that give it a unique look. The Adaptive Air Ride Suspension is one of my favorite touches, providing an incredibly smooth driving experience, while interior upgrades like 16-way power-adjustable front seats, an 18-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system, and a panoramic power sunroof elevate your experience each day. I should note the Denali Ultimate is only offered with four-wheel drive, but that doesn’t bother me.
Putting It All Together in the GMC Yukon
As you can see, you have some big decisions to make when looking at the 2024 GMC Yukon to ensure you get everything you’re looking for. Start by deciding on whether the Yukon or Yukon XL is right for you. From there, look at the engines and pick the one that you’ll enjoy driving the most—I’d go for the 6.2L V8, but it depends on what you prefer. That will also help guide your decision on which trim to choose since some engines are only available at certain levels. The SLE is fine, but the upgrades in the SLT are worth the extra cost overall. The AT4 is the way to go if you want to head off-road, while the Denali is a good luxury option. If the Denali Ultimate is right for you and fits your budget, then you probably already know it. No matter what, the Yukon is a good choice for a full-size SUV that has a lot of room inside and plenty of features to choose from.
