The full-size GMC Yukon SUV is getting closer to the new generation and we already saw the prototype version testing on several occasions. However, the all-new, fifth-generation Yukon won’t arrive in time for the 2020 model year as it was expected initially yet the model will wait for the 2021 model year. In the meantime, the Yukon will return with minimal changes in the equipment organization and with new color options. The trim order will also stay the same and buyers will choose between SLE, SLT and 2020 GMC Yukon Denali version. The model will again be available with standard and long wheelbase.
The 2020 GMC Yukon Denali will again provide maximum comfort and equipment availability while getting the power from the stronger engine and riding on the magnetic suspension. The model will stay mostly unchanged and there will just be an adoption of the new color options and some changes in the equipment availability.
Future upgrades:
The next generation Yukon will, however, appear new from the ground up. The model will again share much of the underpinning and powertrain options with the recently all-new, light-duty Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks. The styling of the model will also be more modem and the new Yukon should be much lighter and arrive with the independent rear suspension. The interior will also be redesigned and gain the latest in-car technologies. (Read about new 2021 GMC Yukon.)
2020 Yukon Denali: Design
The 2020 GMC Yukon Denali will remain the same visually and easily recognizable among other large SUVs. Despite its large and boxy silhouette, the Yukon manages to look elegant and the Denali version with loads of chrome and unique styling elements is even more appealing.
The Yukon Denali will highlight its premium nature with the massive, chrome signature grille accompanied by large headlights with attractive lighting elements. The model will use chrome for the door handles, roof rails, window molding, assist steps and on the tailgate. The attention will also get exclusive wheel options with the base 20-inch units. With the Denali Ultimate Package, the model will roll on the 22-inch bright aluminum wheels and include illuminated power-retractable assist steps. The Denali Ultimate Black Edition package will switch to the 22-inch 7-spoke black-painted wheels with chrome accents adding also chrome mirrors caps and polished exhaust tip. New for this package will be Carbon Black Metallic exterior color.
Interior, Equipment:
The 2020 Yukon Denali will also keep the current design inside the cabin. The model has a symmetrical dash design and comfortable seating combined with advanced storage solutions.
The Denali trim uses exclusive materials combined with different shades of the perforated leather seating with the open-pore Mastique Ashwood and chrome and brushed aluminum accents. The model integrates also Active Noise Cancelation and acoustic-laminated windshield and front doors. The owners get also tri-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof, etc.
The Yukon Denali comes also with a GMC Infotainment system with navigation and an 8-inch center screen. There will be 4G LTE wi-fi hotspot, wireless charging, 10-speaker surround sound system, smartphone connectivity, a multicolor head-up display, reconfigurable instrument cluster, etc.
The equipment list will also include active safety systems such as adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, active lane control, low-speed automatic emergency braking, etc.
2020 GMC Yukon Denali: Performance
The 2020 GMC Yukon Denali will again rely on the 6.2-liter EcoTec 3 V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management technology. The engine will transfer power via the 10-speed automatic transmission to either two- or four-wheel drive. The engine provides 420 hp and torque of 460 lb-ft.
The model equips magnetic ride control suspension that precisely monitoring the road ahead. There is also a four-wheel drive with low-range capability for the slippery conditions and more rugged terrains. The Yukon can also tow as much as 8, 500 pounds.
As for the fuel economy, the Yukon Denali should return 14 mpg city and 24 highways with rear-wheel drive in both standard and long-wheelbase configurations. The four-wheel-drive should manage 14 mpg city as well and 21 mpg highways.
The next-generation version should adopt upgraded 6.2-liter V-8 and possibly a 3.0-liter turbodiesel. 2.7-liter turbo-4 petrol is also possible.
2020 GMC Yukon Denali: Release, Price
In the last model year of the fourth generation, the 2020 GMC Yukon Denali will start from $66,700. The on-sale date will be later in the year.