An all-new, full-size Yukon, rolls off the GMC ramp for the 2007 model year. First introduced as the ‘Jimmy’ in its 1982 debut, the 2-door SUV was renamed the ‘Yukon’ in 1992; a 4-door variant was added in 1995. The 1999 model year, saw the exit of the 2-door version. The all-new 2007 Yukon debuts as a 2007 model in early 2006; the model lineup offers a choice of three different V8 engines and two-wheel or four-wheel drive; the Yukon Denali comes with all-wheel drive.

For 2007, the redesigned GMC Yukon features distinctive styling, improved handling, impressive braking power and upscale interiors. The SUV displays a fully boxed frame, wider tracks, improved suspension and rack-and-pinion steering. Additional features include power- fold rear seat, remote start up, heated seats, rear parking assist, a rearview camera, a navigation system, power-articulated running boards and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

There are three well-equipped trim levels in the GMC Yukon full-size SUV lineup: base SLE, the SLT and the top-of-the line Denali. The SLE and SLT are available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. The flagship Denali is a distinctive model, with exclusive features that elevate its performance to exceptional levels.  

A choice of three V8 engines is available in the Yukon lineup. The two-wheel-drive SLE gets a 4.8-liter (L) V8 that makes 290 horsepower (hp) and 290 lb-ft of torque.

Four-wheel-drive SLEs and SLTs are equipped with a 5.3L V8 that produces 320 hp, and 340 lb-ft of torque, with GM's "Displacement on Demand" fuel-efficient technology. A flexible-fuel version of the 5.3 is also available that can run on E85 (85-percent ethanol and 15-percent gasoline).

A four-speed automatic transmission with a "tow-haul" mode is the sole transmission for all V8s.

The GMC Yukon Denali comes with a 6.2L V8 that makes 380 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 6-speed automatic with a manual-shift mode. Denalis are equipped with an all-wheel-drive system and do not have low-range gearing.

A Yukon has towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. EPA estimated fuel ratings are 16/22 mpg for a 2WD SLT.

The 2007 Yukon gets a total revamp, beginning with the exterior; sleek and taut, the expressive styling announces a new look for GMC. The re-styled front fascia maintains the Yukon’s distinguished shape and prominent badge. The quieter, no-fuss surfaces make the SUV look smaller, with gently rounded flanks and a straight beltline.

The front end presents a softer, profile without compromising the Yukon's brawny presence. Wraparound front and rear fascias, premium-look headlamps, styled mirrors and integrated running boards provide a contemporary appearance.

The 2007 models are nearly three inches longer than their predecessors; the four-door Yukon measures 198.9 inches and the full-size Yukon XL comes in at 219.3 inches. The rear-drive Yukon is built on a 116-inch wheelbase and 78.9 inches wide. The Yukon's exterior styling is clean, the new look improves aerodynamics with a 0.36 co-efficient of drag.

The Yukon SLE 2WD and 4WD come with the usual features that include a full-size spare tire, all-season tires, 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inch on Denali), power heated exterior mirrors, electro chromic interior mirror, power windows, tinted glass, rear window defroster, intermittent windshield wipers, color-keyed bumpers, body side moldings and roof rails.

Yukon Denali receives a unique chrome grille, chrome-accented side molding, roof rack trim, distinctive headlamps, taillamps and 18-inch polished aluminum wheels; wheel designs are not shared with other Yukon models.

Everything is new on the inside of the Yukon; the styling is a refreshing combination of elegance and luxury. Seats are lighter and more comfortable; materials are high quality, fit and finish is top-notch.  The dash is simple, with user-friendly knobs, settings and displays. The SLT has leather-covered seating, heated first and second-row seats, leather trim, a Denali leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood accents and auxiliary controls. Yukon Denali also offers an available heated steering wheel.

The SUVs seat nine occupants when fully equipped. Seating options differ with each model; the first row can be equipped with two-bucket seats or a three-seat bench; the middle row can have a three-seat bench or captain's chairs; a three-seat rear bench can be installed. Cargo volume is nearly 108.9 cubic feet without the middle and rear seats, but decreases to 16.3 cubic feet with all the seats in place.

Standard interior features include a six-way, power driver's seat, leather-wrapped, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, 40/20/40 split front bench seat with manual recliners, 60/40 split folding second row bench seat. Cruise control; multi-zone air conditioning; AM/FM/CD/MP3/8-speaker stereo; driver information center; three power outlets steering wheel-mounted audio/cruise controls and rear-seat audio controls add to the premium feel.

The redesigned Yukon features improved handling, braking, ride comfort and interior styling than its predecessor and is easy to drive in spite of its lumbering size.

The full-size SUV steers with a light touch and provides a smooth ride. Denali models are well accommodated, come fully loaded with luxuries and deliver a vigorous performance. 

The responsive handling is further enhanced by rack and pinion steering as well as new suspension, with coil-over shocks up front and five-link setup in the rear.

The Yukon’s hefty 5,500-pound curb weight slows down its reflexes, but a small turning radius of 39 feet, makes it maneuverable. The fully boxed frame supports wider front and rear tracks that enhance stability and allow for a more secure road feel.

Driving control can be enhanced by the available Autoride (GM’s suspension technology) system (standard on Yukon Denali), which uses electronically controlled shock absorbers to make damping adjustments.

Bottom line: The GMC Yukon was built for cruising; there cannot be a vehicle that cruises better.        

Driver airbag, passenger airbag, side head-curtain airbags, child safety door locks, a panic button, vehicle theft tracking, Anti-lock brakes, stability control, a tire-pressure monitoring system and OnStar are standard.

Standard on the SLT and Denali and optional on the SLE are head curtain airbags for all three rows.