General Motor is preparing the new-gen Yukon SUV. The upcoming 2021 GMC Yukon will be the fifth-gen model. New full-size SUV will introduce a redesign. That includes numerous exterior refinements and of course, all-new features. The interior will get new displays and possibly a new upholstery.
Spy shots are already available and most of the innovations are visible at first glance. While the engine lineup should remain, new suspension and lighter frame are included. Most of the changes will be available on all trim levels. That even includes the larger Yukon XL variant.
2021 GMC Yukon Shape is Drastically Changed
Latest spy shots are perfectly showing the latest changes on the forthcoming 2021 GMC Yukon. This full-size SUV will arrive as the new-generation model and it will suffer a complete redesign. As we already wrote, those changes are available on all trim levels and the larger Yukon XL version. For the start, taillights are perhaps the highlight of the latest redesign. The shape is drastically changed and it looks refreshing.
Whatsoever, new taillamps are looking perfect on this boxier shape of the vehicle. The grille of the next-gen Yukon will get further polishing of the horizontal slats. For 2021, Yukon SUV will get a lighter frame and quad exhaust tips. Just like the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Sierra, and Cadillac Escalade, Yukon will also deploy a GM T1 platform.
Interior Will Get a New Infotainment System
The spy shots were showing the Yukon Denali model. However, GM confirmed the changes will apply on all trim levels. On the same spy photos, we can see new lighting graphics. It is definitely a departure from the fourth-gen Yukon SUV. Most likely, we saw the new and probably larger displays. Besides that, the 2021 GMC Yukon will get a new infotainment system. While it is not official, numerous reports are suggesting a cabin redesign.
That means we could expect new standard upholstery, redesigned dashboard and much more. However, there is still room for eight passengers. Interior room is impressive and the cargo area is above average for the segment. However, if interior space is your priority opt for the larger Yukon XL model.
2021 GMC Yukon Engine Specs
There is no official info about the possible drivetrain changes. However, new quad exhaust tips and new independent rear suspension are a good hint for a new engine. On the other hand, rumors are saying that there will be no changes under the hood. The 2021 GMC Yukon will surely arrive with the same 5.3-liter V8. This engine is standard and it produces 355 HP and 383 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a standard two-wheel-drive system. With this setup, Yukon returns 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Loading the optional four-wheel-drive lowers the fuel economy, but not significantly. Optional 6.2-liter V8 is actually an engine for the Yukon Denali trim level. This engine can produce up to 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Denali offers a 10-speed automatic gearbox. On top of that, both powertrain options are offering an active cylinder deactivation and direct fuel injection. If something changes under the bonnet, it could be a new diesel option. It makes perfect sense, as Yukon needs better fuel economy figures and better tow rating.
Price and Debut
The all-new 2021 GMC Yukon will now arrive with a slightly higher price. The base model will start at $53,000. Opting for a four-wheel-drive system will cost you $3,000.
If you want larger Yukon XL SUV, it will cost $56,000. Latest changes will surely improve the SUV in every term. GM will release its new-gen Yukon in the second half of 2020.