2025 GMC YUKON

DENALI ULTIMATE TRIM TAKES LUXURY STATUS UP A LEVEL FOR GMC YUKON

After getting several mid-cycle updates for 2025, the 2026 GMC Yukon enters the new year with no major changes to its core attributes.

It is available in five trims starting in the mid-$60,000 range for entry level Elevation models and running into six figures for the 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate edition that serves as the basis for this review.

GMC upgraded the Denali to Denali Ultimate in 2023 models. The result is an SUV that rivals luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator but at less upfront cost depending on the trim selected.

The entry level model for the 2026 GMC Yukon is the Elevation. The AT4, AT4 Ultimate, Denali and Denali Ultimate trims follow up the ladder. All come with V8 power though tuned to different power outputs.

The 5.3-liter in the Elevation and AT4 models is rated at 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. A 6.2-liter V8is optional in the AT4 and standard in the AT4 Ultimate, Denali, and Denli Ultimate ups those numbers to 420 hp and 460 lb.-ft. 

For those who do a lot of towing a Duramax turbocharged 3.0L (305 hp, 495 lb.-ft) is available. If you want more cargo and third-row space there is a Yukon XL model that is a foot longer and offered in all three trims.

The engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard on the four upper trims and optional on the base Elevation, which comes with standard rear-wheel drive.

The interior on the 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate lives up to its name. Standard features include full grain leather seats for all three rows, heated and ventilated front bucket seats with a massage function, second-row heated bucket seats, third-row bench seats with a power fold function, a rear-seat entertainment system, and heated steering wheel.

Among tech features are 8 years of basic OnStar service, Bose Premium sound, a head-up display, 16.8-inch touchscreen with built-in Google capability, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, and an 8-inch rear touchscreen for climate control.

LED headlights, taillights, fog lamps, and daytime running lights, and a hands free rear liftgate are among standard exterior features. 

GM’s hands-free driving system Super Cruise also is standard.

Safety features include HD surround view, enhanced emergency braking, front pedestrian and cyclist braking, rear cross-traffic braking, reverse automatic braking, enhanced parking assist, forward collision alert, and rear pedestrian alert.

Starting MSRP for the 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate is listed at $101,300. My test vehicle added Night Vision, a Technology package that added a trailering camera and assist guidelines, and Titanium Rush Metallic paint that ran the final total to $$106,390 including the $2,595 delivery charge.

What I liked about the 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate: As a full -size SUV it is most definitely is roomy and the ride is comfortable as well. Tech features are plentiful and easy enough to operate. The digital mirror is a nice feature as is the surround view camera. The V8 engine has plenty of power to move its massive size comfortably.

What I didn’t like about the 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate:  Making your way through crowded mall parking lots and finding parking spaces is a chore. The Denali Ultimate is thirsty with the larger V8 posting fuel economy figures of 14 miles-per-gallon city, 18 highway, and 16 combined using premium fuel. 

Would I but the 2026 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate? Too big for me. You’ll have to make the call to decide if the extra expense is worth it over the Chevy Tahoe.