2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500

Not much changed for the GMC Yukon XL 1500 for the 2012 model year. The few changes made to the SUV are:

• Improved version of the optional navigation system.
• Upgraded options for the rear seat entertainment systems.

It’s hard to miss the 2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500. This SUV is a full-size vehicle capable of seating up to nine people with the proper configuration. It is available in three trim levels, the SLE, SLT, and the Denali versions. The Yukon XL 1500 still retains many of the features it shares with its older sibling, the Chevrolet Suburban. The Yukon has a wide, truck like front end and grille. The grille is spacious and sports the GMC emblem prominently in the center. The headlights flanking the grille are square and large for optimum night vision. Details are noted on the hood, fenders, and doors of the Yukon. The XL has just enough dramatic styling to add to the appearance of the SUV without taking it to over the top proportions. The lower trim levels of the Yukon XL 1500 ride around on 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Denali trim comes with 20-inch alloy wheels.

Like the exterior of the 2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500 the cabin of the SUV is rather no nonsense, though comfortable. This SUV is available with either bucket or bench style front seats. With the bench design, the Yukon XL 1500 can carry up to nine people. The second row is also available with captain’s chairs if desired. Third row seating is a standard feature.

The 2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500 is equipped with tons of cargo space, making this SUV option a good one for families or those who travel with a lot of equipment or cargo. With the second and third rows in place, the Yukon has 49 cubic feet of space. With the third seat removed and the second row folded down, the Yukon XL 1500 gives up 137.4 cubic feet to put all your stuff in.

While this SUV isn’t the most luxurious on the market, it is well made with plenty of high quality materials. Most drivers appreciate the well placed dash gauges and controls. Both are easy to see and operate.

Besides having the 2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500 size and weight for protection, the SUV is equipped with plenty of standard safety equipment to make the job easier as well. This model is offered with anti-lock brakes, stability control, as well as an upgraded version of the OnStar program. Airbags are standard equipment too. The Yukon XL 1500 has airbags in the front side and side curtain positions.

In crash testing, the Yukon scored very well and was only stopped from receiving full marks on the overall score because of its rollover rate. In front, side, and rear impact testing, the SUV was ranked with the highest safety rating available.

With so much weight to move around, the 2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500 naturally needs a powerful engine. This model is equipped with a 5.3-liter, V-8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission as the only gearbox choice. This powertrain produces 320 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy comes in at 14/20 mpg city/highway for the 5.3-liter, V-8 powertrain.

The Denali version comes with a 6.2-liter, V-8 engine coupled with the same transmission. This model is available with an all-wheel drive system. This powertrain is capable of 403 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. The fuel economy for the Yukon XL 1500 Denali is 12/19 mpg city/highway. Neither powertrain is going to win any awards for efficient gas mileage.

Driving the 2012 GMC Yukon XL 1500 has some impressive traits especially for such a large vehicle. Both versions, but especially the Denali, are quicker than most would expect from a full-size SUV. The cabin is quiet and the ride very comfortable, making it a good choice for long trips. This isn’t the most graceful vehicle and the handling is a bit difficult due to the vehicle’s size.

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