GMC Yukon Denali undergoes local testing

A LITTLE more information about the Brobdingnagian proportioned GMC Yukon Denali Upper Large SUV has come to light in the run up to its launch date slated for Q2 next year (2025).

Expected to compete with the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, the Y63 Nissan Patrol, possibly the Lexus LX, GMSV, which will market the vehicle Down Under has not issued pricing but given the US sticker, the cost of shipping and the right-hand drive conversion through Walkinshaw Group, GoAuto estimates a MRLP of $135,000 or higher.

The re-engineered, three-row, top-of-the-range Yukon Denali arriving here is the latest upgraded version of generation five Yukon that lobbed recently in the US. The model has been a fixture there for decades and is broadly based on the Chevrolet Tahoe.

It also has much in common with the locally available GMSV-imported Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pick-up sharing that model’s chassis, many other underpinnings and engine… a 6.2-litre petrol V8 good for 313kW and 624Nm.

The drive system runs through a 10-speed automatic transmission and features an electronic limited slip rear differential. Fuel consumption is unknown at the moment, but the Silverado 1500 we recently road tested consumed 14.4 litres per 100km in mixed driving.

As for towing, the Silverado is rated at 4500kg but the US specification Yukon Denali can only manage 3810kg which may change with the local re-engineering process.

Measuring in 5334mm long, 2057mm wide and 1943mm high, the Yukon has a decent 3071mm wheelbase providing generous interior space for up to eight occupants.

The big bopper is crammed with kit including funky stuff like its thermal-camera-driven night vision system, 18-speaker Bose audio and massage seats. Occupants luxuriate in leather upholstery and multiple climate control outlets under a large panoramic sunroof.

It has a range of ADAS features, rolls on 22-inch alloys and rides on adaptive air suspension.

The interior is dominated by a large 16.9-inch centre infotainment touchscreen and a 12.0-inch driver’s digital cluster with a head-up display in front of that and though unconfirmed the Aussie spec’ GMC Yukon Denali may score the Silverado 1500’s bi-modal exhaust that adds a degree of aural excitement to the drive experience….

GMSV says manoeuvring the Yukon in and out of tight confines is made easier thanks to the inclusion of up to 13 camera views which provide extra sets of eyes all around the vehicle. They include a surround view, front and rear views (including top-down views) and a hitch view with hitch guidance to help owners connect to their trailers with precision.

The various camera views are all displayed on the 16.8-inch tablet style infotainment screen which, when not being used for camera projection, displays vehicle applications such as Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto, vehicle settings, drive modes and more.

“In addition to seating for eight, the GMC Yukon Denali will offer a gargantuan 3480-litres of cargo volume when the second and third row are lowered. The seats all fold flat, making the interior space perfect for transporting large and bulky items,” said GMSV in a statement.

Jess Bala, managing director, GM Australia and New Zealand said of the Yukon Denali’s imminent arrival, “There’s no denying it’s a statement vehicle - with the Denali package, the Yukon offers customers the ultimate in premium finishes and performance”.

“The GMC Yukon is the ultimate vehicle for families and groups who need to transport as many as eight people in comfort, safety, and style, combined with unheralded towing capability and luggage carrying ability,” she added.

“A powerful petrol V8 engine, luxurious interior, cavernous boot space are complemented with the latest in technology and safety systems to make the GMC Yukon Denali the latest ‘must have’ vehicle brought to you by GMSV.”

The model is currently undergoing real-world testing in Victoria with a fleet of engineering vehicles conducting local testing and validation ahead of the on-sale date.