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2018 GMC Yukon review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

GMC Yukon highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Available seating for nine
  • Solid towing capacity
  • Cabin is quiet and nicely trimmed

Cons

  • Tough to maneuver in tight spaces
  • Engine and braking is sluggish
  • Cargo space is not a standout

Mileage (EPA estimate)

14 city, 22 highway, 17 combined

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2018 GMC Yukon delivers comfort and utility

The 2018 GMC Yukon can haul up to nine passengers and more than 8,000 pounds when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories. It also offers slightly more standard equipment and a more refined interior than its corporate cousin, the Chevrolet Tahoe, while not quite reaching the luxurious heights of its other cousin, the Cadillac Escalade.

But this three-row SUV has some drawbacks for those who want both all three rows and the towing capacity that comes with a full-size vehicle. It's not quite as capable or as luxurious as competitors like the Ford Expedition nor the Lincoln Navigator, and because it's a truck-based SUV, its maneuverability is limited. Storage is fine, but not spectacular in part because of the Yukon's high trunk floor. New for 2018 is a 10-speed transmission that makes accelerating better, but still not fantastic when paired with the standard 5.3-liter V8 engine.

All GMC Yukon years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each GMC Yukon generation from 2013 to 2026

What is new for the 2018 GMC Yukon?

  • New trim added for enhanced features and customization options
  • Additional safety equipment included as standard
  • Improved fuel efficiency ratings for better cost savings
  • Upgraded infotainment system with new connectivity options
  • Revised pricing structure for better market competitiveness

2018 GMC Yukon trims

Curious how GMC Yukon trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SLE:

  • 355-hp, 383-lb-ft of torque 5.3L
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • Third Row Seat
  • Cloth Seats
  • Power Seats
  • Memory Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • View our GMC Yukon SLE inventory

SLT Standard Edition:

SLT:

Denali:

GMC Yukon photos

What We Like:

Comfort: The seats are comfortable and the climate control is excellent. That's especially true for passengers in the first two rows, where legroom is plentiful. Getting in and out of the vehicle is also easy thanks to wide door openings.

Interior: Controls are easy to use and the cabin is quiet, even when driving on the highway. The cabin is a step up from the Tahoe, featuring premium materials.

Utility: The towing capacity, when properly equipped, is solid for an SUV at 8,400 pounds.

If you're more interested in where to put your phone and keys, you're in luck: the cabin features plenty of spots to store small items.

What Needs Improvement

Tech: The Yukon does not come equipped with many standard driver aids. To get many desired aids, you need to find an SUV optioned into the Denali trim. In fairness though, even the base Yukon does come with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

3.9 out of 5

9 customer reviews
The 2018 GMC Yukon offers ample interior space, comfortable seating, and a smooth ride, making it ideal for families. However, it faces criticism for subpar fuel economy, inconsistent technology, and high costs. Buyers appreciate its power and handling, but issues with reliability and value temper enthusiasm, presenting a balanced but cautious choice.

RepairPal reliability rating

3
Above Average

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 Yukon

GMC Yukon features and specs

Curious how GMC Yukon trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SLT Standard Edition 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • Power Locks
  • Power Windows
  • Air Conditioning
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • ABS Brakes
  • Third Row Seat
  • Leather Seats
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Power Folding Third Row
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Rear View Camera
  • Parking Sensors
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Smart Key
  • Remote Start
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Running Boards
  • Tow Hitch
  • Automatic Transmission
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • BOSE Sound System
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Android Auto

Optional Features

  • Sunroof(s)
  • Quad Seats
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Leather Seats
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Running Boards
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Tow Hitch
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle
  • Navigation System
  • Rear Entertainment System

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

5.3L

Horsepower

355

Torque (ft-lbs)

383

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

P265/65R18

Rear tires

P265/65R18

Seating capacity

8

Max towing capacity

650/6500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2018 GMC Yukon FAQ

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