GMC Yukon Used Buying Guide

Unveiled in 2020, the Yukon came with some great features right out of the gate. This generation featured 3 engines. There’s the 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, as well as a 3.0L I6 Turbodiesel option. No matter what your preference, the Yukon has it.

This generation came in 4 trims, these are the SLE, SLT, Denali, and the AT4. While the Denali was the pinnacle of luxury, the AT4 brought some off-road prowess, making it a great option for off-road enthusiasts who want something more elegant.

The AT4 came with exclusive leather-appointed seats, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, heated second-row outboard seats, 20-inch Goodyear All-Terrain tires, and even skid plates to help keep your vehicle from getting dinged up.

For the 2025 models, some new things were added. While most were cosmetic changes, the Elevation trim joined the lineup. This replaced the SLE and SLT trims as the starting trim. With the removal of the SLE and SLT trims, the 9-passenger seating configuration also went away.

If 9-passenger seating isn’t your thing, then this change doesn’t really matter to you. The Yukon still offered two different configurations. One being the 8-passeneger seating, while the other was 7-passenger seating. For the most comfortable configuration, keep an eye out for 7-passeneger configurations with second-row captain’s chairs.

For those who want the best mileage, no matter the fuel, then you can look for a model that is equipped with the 3.0L Turbodiesel. This has an EPA rated 23 MPG combined, able to go 552 miles on one tank.

Being that this is an SUV, it does focus a bit on the “utilty” aspect. If you plan on towing with your Yukon, and want the most power, then you’ll need something that is equipped with a 5.3L V8 engine. In a Yukon equipped with this baby, you can tow up to 8,400-pounds. The other two engines aren’t far behind at 8,200-pounds.

For this generation, the trims to pick from were a bit sparse. The Yukon only came in these three trims: SLE, SLT, and Denali. The engine options were also sparse. While it came with the same two gasoline engines, it didn’t come with a diesel option.

For the best mileage from this generation, you can look for a model that is equipped with the 5.3L V8. This has an EPA rated 19 MPG combined, getting you just under 500 miles on one tank.

While most of this generation was lackluster, the Denali was still the shining example. This came equipped with active noise-cancellation tech, as well as GM’s third generation magnetic ride control suspension. This was done to make sure that the ride is comfortable.

The Denali was equipped with the less efficient but more powerful 6.2L V8. This engine could produce 420 horsepower, and 460 lb-ft of torque. Making this the model with the most get up and go. Making it the perfect option for those who want something comfortable and spry.