The 2025 GMC Yukon Denali sits in that sweet spot between the flashy Cadillac Escalade and the more basic Chevrolet Tahoe. After spending time with this refreshed luxury SUV, here’s what real families need to know before making this significant investment.
What’s Actually New for 2025
GMC didn’t just slap a new badge on last year’s model. The changes are meaningful, starting with a completely redesigned dashboard that finally makes sense. The completely revised dashboard features a more streamlined look, highlighted by a new 16.8-inch vertical touchscreen display that makes the old 10.2-inch screen look tiny.
The gear shifter moved from awkward dashboard buttons to a proper steering column lever – a change that feels natural immediately. Plus, those stunning 24-inch wheels on the Denali Ultimate genuinely turn heads without looking gaudy.
How It Drives: The Real Experience
Power That Actually Matters
The Denali’s default setup is a 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8 that delivers genuine performance when you need it. During highway merging and overtaking, this engine doesn’t hesitate. The GMC squats on its rear end, lifts its nose skyward, and roars forward, the 6.2-liter underhood letting out a primal scream as the digital tachometer needle races toward redline.
For families concerned about fuel costs, the available turbodiesel makes more sense. The diesel model earned ratings of up to 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. That’s a substantial improvement over the gas V8’s 14-18 mpg ratings.
Comfort Where It Counts
The air suspension system transforms this three-ton vehicle into something surprisingly refined. The air springs do a fine job of controlling the body motions of this three-ton-plus SUV. Road imperfections that would rattle passengers in other large SUVs simply disappear.
Living With Three Rows: The Family Reality
Front Seats: Executive-Level Comfort
The front seats genuinely impress with 16-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and available massage functions. These aren’t just marketing features – they make long road trips genuinely comfortable.
Second Row: Where Compromises Appear
Though space in the second row is adequate, the flat backs and bottoms of the captain’s chairs offer limited support. For families with car seats, there’s another issue: the buckets cannot lean forward for third-row access if a baby seat is attached.
Third Row: Realistic Expectations
Adults can sit back there, but it’s not luxurious. The third-row seat will accommodate two full-sized adults who will be very comfortable, even if they are tall, though legroom requires passengers to position themselves strategically.
Technology That Works (Mostly)
The new 16.8-inch vertical touchscreen dominates the dashboard, but it’s more than just impressive visuals. Climate controls integrate smoothly into the lower section, and the volume dial embedded in the screen responds naturally.
Night vision technology helps during rural driving, though it’s more useful for spotting deer than navigating city streets.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 420hp 6.2L V8 or 305hp 3.0L Turbodiesel |
| Fuel Economy (V8) | 14 city / 18 highway mpg |
| Fuel Economy (Diesel) | 21 city / 27 highway mpg |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 8,400 pounds |
| Seating | 8 passengers (7 with captain’s chairs) |
| Cargo Space | 25.5 cu ft (behind 3rd row) |
| Starting Price | $77,500 (Denali 2WD) |
| Test Vehicle Price | $107,285 (fully loaded) |
The Financial Reality Check
Starting around $77,500 for a rear-wheel-drive Denali, the Yukon represents serious money. MSRP on this one is $107,285 with every feature available. That puts it uncomfortably close to Escalade territory, where the luxury quotient increases substantially.
For families considering this investment, the sweet spot seems to be a well-equipped Denali without the Ultimate package’s most expensive options.
Should Your Family Buy One?
The 2025 Yukon Denali works best for families who prioritize capability over pure luxury. It tows confidently, seats eight people (when needed), and provides genuine comfort for long-distance travel.
However, consider your actual needs carefully. If you rarely use the third row or tow heavy loads, smaller luxury SUVs offer more refinement for similar money. The Yukon shines when you need its full capability regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the diesel engine worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, if you drive frequently or tow regularly. The improved fuel economy and massive torque make real-world sense.
Q: Can adults actually use the third row?
A: Two adults fit comfortably for shorter trips. Three adults back there becomes uncomfortable quickly.
Q: How reliable is the air suspension system?
A: Generally solid, but repair costs can be substantial outside warranty coverage. Budget accordingly.
