2008 GMC Yukon Denali Review

The Yukon is a full-size SUV that debuted in 1992, with the luxury Denali trim arriving in 1998. In 2000, the second generation emerged, and the Denali XL with an extended wheelbase was introduced in 2002. The third generation arrived in 2007.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

From its large size to its full load of features, the GMC Yukon Denali is a very commanding vehicle. While it's a very nice ride, the price seems hard to justify. In the same ballpark, there are tough competitors.

What's New For 2008:

What's New for 2008:. Two new colors have been added and two-wheel drive is now an option. The Denali is a full-loaded trim of the Yukon.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 GMC Yukon Denali price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$50,135

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
7

Gas Mileage:
13/19

Engine:
6.2L V8

Horsepower:
403@5700RPM

Torque:
417@4300RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
26

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/100000

Rust Warranty:
72/100000

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Yukon 5 stars for dependability. Problems with the last generation included failed blower motors, faulty manual transmissions, suspension noise, and rough idling. It was recalled 14 times. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles and drivers can expect below average reliability.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Yukon received perfect government crash test scores. IIHS results are not available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, a rollover sensor, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Quiet
+ Smooth ride
+ Strong towing

Cons
- Mediocre gas mileage
- Cumbersome third row
- Vague steering

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Ford Expedition King Ranch has 50 less hp and much less towing capacity. The Jeep Commander costs several thousand less, and includes a moonroof, but has 20 less hp and can't tow nearly as much. The Toyota Sequoia Limited has 30 more hp, but costs a couple grand more and has less towing ability.

What Others Are Saying:

"This latest child in the Yukon family promises a lot, but fails to fully deliver as a SUV or a family car...There are more powerful, plush, and/or affordable SUVs available." - C|Net

"I've always been impressed by the practicality of the Yukon Denali. Yes, it's luxurious and probably over-optioned, but it has a lot to offer. As an old full size van owner, the Denali is actually smaller than I was used to, so the size didn't bother me. Sadly, the fuel economy was about the same as in my big van of 20years ago." - The Auto Channel

"The new-for-2007 GMC Yukon Denali and the XL Denali are two burly, luxurious and expensive sport-utility vehicles. They boast a host of fancy features; have handsome, leather-swathed interiors; powerful (and thirsty) V-8 engines and they have that tough go-anywhere, tow-anything demeanor that has attracted buyers for the past 15 years. In short, they are equally at home at the country club or the hunting cabin, on the superhighway or on the rutted and rocky off-road trails." - The Family Car

Read more about the 2008 GMC Yukon Denali at the GMC manufacturer web site.

Published on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 - Email to a friend

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