The 2025 GMC Yukon is going to bring the first significant design update of the full-size SUV. The current generation debuted in 2020 and in the past few years, the company has been upgrading the vehicle with new grades and options. For example, Denali Ultimate is now in the lineup and for the 2025 YM, we can also expect the AT4x to enhance the current AT4. Also, the Super Cruise feature is available… at least until the Ultra Cruise debuts.
The full-size SUV is a mechanical twin of the Chevy Tahoe. Also, a bigger Suburban has its counterpart – Yukon XL. The GMC packs its vehicles with more options, so the SUV is an upscale model compared to Chevrolet units. The high-end 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate is ready to compete in the luxury class with Lexus LX or Lincoln Navigator.
Besides standard and long-wheelbase models, there are also three engine choices and several trim levels. It is hard to say what configuration is the best, but you can make a lot of combinations.
2025 GMC Yukon Facelift
After five years, the company will make some changes to the big rig. It is too early to talk about details, but the 2025 GMC Yukon might find inspiration in the electric vehicles lineup. General Motors is building plenty of EVs and even Yukon will become all-electric one day. There are concepts for the Silverado truck and premium Cadillac Escalade IQL.
The most changes will be noticeable on the front grille. The size remains the same and the rest of the body comes with minor modifications, including the tail of the SUV. The three-row SUV offers plenty of space, especially if you pick the Yukon XL with an extended wheelbase. In that case, the cargo space increases to nearly 145 cubic feet. There will be seven seats in the 2025 GMC Yukon and the XL version increases the capacity by two more.
Engines and Specs
The big rig is using big powerplants. There are two V8s and a turbodiesel. The base package includes a 5.3-liter petrol mill with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The gas mileage is not a strong side, but high power outputs, size and weight have their cost. A rear-wheel drive is standard and you can pick 4WD. A 6.2-liter is reserved for higher trim levels, AT4 and Denali Ultimate. It provides 420 horsepower and 460 lob-ft of torque for the best performances. as a bigger unit, it consumes even more fuel, dropping the mileage to 16 mpg. Even start/stop feature and cylinder deactivation system can’t make it too much better.
Finally, a turbodiesel is still part of the lineup. Although the company is leaning towards a zero-emission world, oil burners are still used by big rigs. The 2025 GMC Yukon Diesel will make 277 hp and 460 lb-ft, which are enough for the best towing capacity results. Nowadays, 8,400 pounds is not a leading number for the full-size class, since Lexus LX and Jeep Wagoneer can haul more than 10,000 lbs.
Best Configurations
This is the battle between all-terrain and luxury packages. Previously, there were AT4 and Denali, which evolved to AT4x and Denali Ultimate. Still, high-end options cost quite a lot – above $70,000 in any case. The SLE is the entry-level version. Highlights of this model are 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, an infotainment system with Google Assistant and a 10-inch touchscreen. Pro Safety Plus suite comes with a blind-spot monitor and rear-cross traffic warning. The SLT costs $6,000 more and adds larger wheels, power liftgate, Bose audio, heated seats, a wireless charger and leather upholstery. Some consider it already as the premium offer. Both those grades come with a 5.3 and turbodiesel engines.
If you want a 6.2-liter V8, the AT4x is the best option. This package is specialized for off-road drive and it can take you anywhere. The 2024 GMC Yukon AT4x offers a smoother ride thanks to the adaptive suspension dampers. The package also gets hill descent assistance. Unique appearance and interior feature special paintjobs, wheels, and front fascia details. Inside, you can find memory settings, a heated steering wheel and power-folding rear row. Optionally, there are Tech package and Active Response 4WD bundle. You can also replace the middle row with captain’s chairs.
The most elegant and equipped version is the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate. It didn’t change the previous version a lot, but a few details are enough to push the level of luxury. Technology package with a 360-degree camera and HUD is standard. Bose sound system features 14 speakers. Captain’s chairs are in the middle row by default. The main highlight of the Advanced Technology package is the Super Cruise feature. Soon, the company will upgrade this self-driving module with the Ultra Cruise system. Rear-seat entertainment is installed with 12-inch displays. The massage function is also part of the Ultimate upgrade. Still, that version costs just under $100k, or $20,000 more than the base Denali.