2016 GMC Yukon review
GMC Yukon highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Impressive towing capacity
- Available seating for nine
- Quiet on the highway
Cons
- High cargo floor and load height
- Cramped third row
- Lackluster handling
Mileage (EPA estimate)
15 city, 21 highway, 17 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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2016 GMC Yukon gets technology upgrades
The 2016 GMC Yukon is a near-luxury, truck-based SUV that offers seating for up to nine passengers while also delivering the capability of a full-sized pickup. Its towing capacity and off-road prowess are standout features, while its interior niceties separate it ever so slightly from its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Tahoe.
But the Yukon is not without its drawbacks. It drives like a full-size truck, making maneuvering through tight spaces a challenge. The third row folds down flat but cargo space isn’t as generous as competitors like the Toyota Sequoia or Ford Expedition. And while the cabin is more refined than the Tahoe, its ride can't compete with three-row crossovers like the Hyundai Santa Fe. You’ll also experience occasional truck-like shakes and shivers while going over bumps and divots on rough roads.
If you're looking for a three-row SUV that can also haul your boat on the weekends, the Yukon might be worth a look. But if you can do without its towing prowess, the next generation of crossover SUVs may be a better choice.
All GMC Yukon years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each GMC Yukon generation from 2012 to 2026
What is new for the 2016 GMC Yukon?
- Yukon trims have been upgraded with Automated Cruise Control as standard equipment this year.
- The Denali trim now comes with Flex Fuel Vehicle as standard equipment.
What We Like
Utility: Properly equipped, the maximum tow rating for the two-wheel-drive Yukon SLE or SLT is an impressive 8,500 pounds.
Opting for a Yukon with four-wheel drive opens up the SUV's full range of capabilities but also slightly diminishes its towing capabilities.Performance: The standard 5.3-liter V8 offers plenty of power for most shoppers. Looking for a little more? The Yukon Denali comes with the 6.2-liter V8 which boasts peppier acceleration, though towing capacity is slightly diminished.
Interior: The Yukon is a classy three-row SUV that features high-quality materials throughout the cabin, providing a step up from its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Tahoe. It's also remarkably quiet while driving on the highway and boasts gauges and controls that are easy to read and use.
What Needs Improvement
Cargo: The trunk's high floor makes storage space limited and loading that cargo into the back of the Yukon is a challenge compared to competitors. Leg room in the third row is cramped and storage space in the back row is limited.
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Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the GMC Yukon an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks GMC Yukon 9th out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the GMC YukonGMC Yukon features and specs
Curious how GMC Yukon trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Denali 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- A/C Seat(s)
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- BOSE Sound System
- CD Audio
- Cruise Control
- Flex Fuel Vehicle
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Parking Sensors
- Power Folding Third Row
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear View Camera
- Remote Start
- Running Boards
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Third Row Seat
- Tow Hitch
- Traction Control
- Automated Cruise Control
- Bluetooth Technology
- Full Roof Rack
- Head Up Display
- Leather Seats
- Quad Seats
- Rear Entertainment System
- Running Boards
- Smart Key
- Sunroof(s)
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
6.2L
Horsepower
420
Torque (ft-lbs)
460
Engine type
Gas
Fuel capacity
26
Wheelbase
116"
Overall length
203.9"
Width
80.5"
Height
74.4"
Leg room
F 45.3"/M 39"/R 24.8"
Head room
F 42.8"/M 38.7"/R 38.1"
Front tires
P275/55R20
Rear tires
P275/55R20
Seating capacity
7
Max towing capacity
840/8400 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2016 GMC Yukon FAQ
The 2016 GMC Yukon is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Denali: 15 MPG City and 22 MPG Highway
- SLE: 16 MPG City and 23 MPG Highway
- SLT: 16 MPG City and 23 MPG Highway
The GMC Yukon received a rating of 3 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the GMC Yukon as 8 out of 16 among Fullsize SUV
The 2016 GMC Yukon has received an average 3.4 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2016 GMC Yukon, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2016 GMC Yukon Reviews.
The 2016 GMC Yukon has a maximum towing capacity of between 6300 and 8400 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2016 GMC Yukon:
- Flex Fuel Vehicle
- Heated Mirrors
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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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