Jobaaj Stories
GMC Yukon Denali: A Full-Size SUV Review for the Australian Market
Australia's automotive landscape is changing rapidly, with a surge of new Chinese brands and a renewed focus from established players. Amongst this exciting shift, General Motors Specialty Vehicles (GMSV) has introduced the GMC Yukon Denali, a full-size SUV marking GMC's debut in the Australian market. This review delves into the Yukon Denali's strengths and weaknesses, exploring its design, performance, features, and overall value proposition.
A Closer Look at the GMC Yukon Denali
The GMC Yukon Denali isn't just another SUV; it's a statement. Re-manufactured in right-hand drive in Victoria, it's a testament to GM's commitment to the Australian market, even with the challenges posed by its originally left-hand drive configuration. GM's dedication is apparent in the rigorous testing process; ten Yukons underwent extensive testing, covering over 100,000km, including a grueling 14,000km round trip around Australia. This level of testing ensures the Yukon Denali meets the demands of Australian conditions.
GMC's History and Positioning: For years, GMC was simply a higher-trim Chevrolet. However, the Yukon Denali showcases a clear distinction with unique styling and a more premium positioning. While sharing the T1 platform with Chevrolet Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade, the Yukon Denali occupies a sweet spot price-wise, sitting between the Tahoe and the Escalade.
- Price: The 2025 GMC Yukon Denali starts at $174,990 before on-road costs.
- Engine: A powerful 6.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol V8, delivering 313kW of power and 624Nm of torque.
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic.
- Drivetrain: 4WD with a two-speed transfer case.
Interior Design and Features: A Blend of Modern and Dated
Stepping inside, the Yukon Denali boasts a modern and attractive dashboard design. However, a closer inspection reveals a mix of high-quality materials alongside some less impressive choices. The overall design is commendable, featuring distinctive wood trim and well-placed soft-touch materials. However, hard plastics are noticeable in certain areas, creating an uneven feel. The massive infotainment touchscreen is a highlight, but the lack of built-in satellite navigation is a surprising omission in this price range. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are thankfully included.
Seating and Space: The Yukon Denali offers comfortable seating for eight. The second row includes 12.6-inch screens, and even the third row offers reasonable headroom and legroom. Cargo space is generous with the second and third rows folded, reaching 3480L.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Interior Materials | Mix of high-quality and hard plastics; overall design is attractive but inconsistent. |
| Infotainment | Large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but lacks built-in navigation. |
| Seating | Comfortable seating for eight, with second-row screens and adequate third-row space. |
| Cargo Space | 3480L with second and third rows folded. |
Performance and Handling: Power Meets Refinement
The 6.2-litre V8 delivers impressive power and smooth acceleration. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, and the Yukon Denali feels surprisingly agile for its size, especially considering its body-on-frame construction. The adaptive air suspension and Magnetic Ride Control contribute to a surprisingly comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces. Towing capacity is excellent, with a braked towing capacity of 3628kg.
- Fuel Economy: The claimed fuel economy is 12.8L/100km, with real-world testing showing slightly higher figures.
- Towing: Impressively capable towing capacity, exceeding many competitors.
Safety and Warranty: Areas for Improvement
While the Yukon Denali includes a range of standard safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera, it lacks an ANCAP safety rating. The three-year/100,000km warranty also falls short of the industry standard, particularly for a vehicle in this price bracket.
Conclusion: A Unique Offering with Trade-offs
The GMC Yukon Denali offers a unique blend of power, space, and luxury that sets it apart in the Australian market. While the impressive V8 engine and comfortable ride are major highlights, some shortcomings exist regarding interior material consistency, the lack of built-in navigation, and a relatively short warranty. Ultimately, the decision to purchase hinges on prioritizing these aspects against the Yukon Denali's strengths. The premium price is a significant factor to consider, and buyers should carefully weigh this against alternative SUVs in the same price range. If you're looking for a powerful and capable full-size SUV with a unique American flair, the Yukon Denali is worth a closer look. However, potential buyers should be prepared to compromise on some aspects of luxury and after-sales service.
