In-Production

GMC Acadia For years, building tough trucks for tough work has been the focus of GMC, General Motors' truck division. But even GMC couldn't avoid the onslaught of the crossover SUV revolution. Meet the GMC Acadia.
The all-new Acadia is a large crossover (or crossover utility vehicle, or CUV). Mechanically, it's very similar to the Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave. Thanks to its spacious interior, strong V6 engine and competitive price, the Acadia is one of the better crossover SUV choices.
Current GMC Acadia
The GMC Acadia is new for 2007 and comes in one body style only. The designers have done everything possible to tie it in with the rest of the GMC lineup of trucks. It looks tough and has a wide track and long wheelbase. The Acadia comes with front-wheel drive in its base form and all-wheel drive is available as an option.
The GMC Acadia is one of the roomiest crossover utility vehicles in its class, with seating for up to eight passengers. The second-row seats are captain's chairs, but a 60/40-split-folding bench is available as an option. The second-row seats also slide 4 inches fore and aft and easily flip up and out of the way for access to the third-row seats. And there's room for adults in the back two rows, though leg support is a bit lacking. Behind the third row, there is a respectable amount of luggage room.
The GMC Acadia comes in three trims: SLE-1, SLT-1 and SLT-2. Each comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine capable of churning out 275 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard.
Standard features include cruise control, full power accessories, front and rear air-conditioning and a full array of airbags. Stability control with roll mitigation and antilock disc brakes are also included. The base stereo is a six-speaker system with an in-dash CD player with MP3 playback. The SLT-1 and SLT-2 trims get a premium 10-speaker Bose system with a six-CD in-dash changer. Features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, power seats and tri-zone automatic climate control are also available in the higher trims.
In our road tests we found the Acadia to be quite an eye-opening drive. Handling is respectable, especially considering the vehicle's large size and hefty weight. The Acadia's V6 won't blow you away with its power, but peak torque comes on early and the vehicle moves with decent authority. We noted that the Acadia's transmission can occasionally be hesitant to downshift, blunting passing performance somewhat. But overall, our editors feel that the GMC Acadia represents a compelling combination of functionality, luxury and value.

GMC Canyon Though not as popular in terms of sales as full-size pickups, compact and midsize pickups fulfill an important role. For the many truck buyers whose towing and hauling needs don't require the capabilities of a full-size, these more nimble and fuel-efficient trucks are the perfect choice. GMC's entrant in this segment is the Canyon.
One of the GMC Canyon's biggest assets is its choice of several well-sorted suspension setups that provide impressive capability off-road or sporty handling dynamics on twisty blacktop. The Canyon is also handsome-looking, thanks to its square jaw and broad-shouldered stance, and its impressive crash test scores offer peace of mind to owners.
When it comes to negatives, however, the Canyon is plagued with more than its fair share. For much of this truck's life, its engines have been lacking in the power department, which has limited the truck's ability to comfortably haul cargo or tow heavy loads. Build quality is average at best, and many items within the truck's cabin -- like its door handles and shifter -- feel flimsy and cheap.
Though the snazzy, affordably priced GMC Canyon will no doubt hold a certain charm for budget-conscious shoppers with an eye for style, we think most compact or midsize pickup truck buyers will be better served by other more powerful and capable entries in this segment, such as the Nissan Frontier or Toyota Tacoma.
Current GMC Canyon
Three configurations are available for the GMC Canyon: standard cab, extended cab and crew cab. Extended-cab and crew-cab models feature four doors; crew-cab Canyons have four standard-sized doors and a 60/40-split-folding rear seat that can seat three adults, while extended-cab versions offer two small reverse-opening doors and rear jump seats. Canyon crew cabs haul loads with a 5-foot bed, while the other two configurations get the job done with a bed that measures 6 feet.
Three trim levels are available. WT and SL models offer features like air-conditioning, cruise control and an AM/FM stereo, with SL models substituting cloth upholstery for the WT's vinyl. Premium Canyon SLE models add an improved stereo, upgraded upholstery and a more extensive options list. All three trims are offered on standard and extended-cab models, but crew cab models come only in SLE trim. Major options, depending on the trim, include a sunroof, side curtain airbags and satellite radio. There are also two optional suspension packages. The Z71 suspension improves the off-road performance of 4WD trucks, while the ZQ8 package for 2WD trucks enhances on-road handling and grip.
GMC Canyon buyers have a choice of two engines. A 2.9-liter inline four-cylinder produces 185 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, and is standard on all Canyons, save for the four-wheel-drive crew cab. The 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder is more robust, offering 242 hp and 242 lb-ft of torque. Both a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission are available. Two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are offered; the 4WD system has a dual-range transfer case and push-button controls.
The GMC Canyon has met with middling reviews on the editorial front -- its interior has been criticized for being below average in build and material quality. Its engines, too, have been panned as lackluster, though the current Canyon is certainly better in this regard than previous years. In consumer reviews, owners praise the truck for its stylish exterior and quiet ride; gripes primarily concern build quality.
Past GMC Canyons
The GMC Canyon was launched for the 2004 model year. Though still in its first generation, the Canyon has seen a few changes over the years. Originally, the pickup truck debuted with less powerful engines: a 175-hp, 2.8-liter inline four-cylinder and a 220-hp 3.5-liter inline five-cylinder. The ZQ8 package didn't become available until 2006, and the engine power upgrades, along with a revised four-speed automatic transmission with better shift quality, occurred for the 2007 model year.
Consumers shopping for a used GMC Canyon would probably be wise to expand their search to include its corporate twin, the Chevrolet Colorado, which offers basically the same attributes.

GMC Envoy Midsize SUVs are some of the best-selling vehicles on the market, as families and singles alike seek out their just-right compromise of space and maneuverability. The GMC Envoy has been among the eligible candidates in this segment since 1998. It was completely redesigned for 2002, and the result was additional size, power and refinement.
Always a platform twin to the Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC's Envoy is a traditional body-on-frame SUV offered in two-wheel-drive (2WD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations. Apart from styling, there are subtle differences between the two, however. For example, the current Envoy can be equipped with an optional rear air suspension (that provides a more isolating ride and balances out heavy loads), while the TrailBlazer doesn't offer this feature.
Among midsize SUVs, the GMC Envoy gets lost in the pack. It has all the right features to compete in this segment, as well as a comfortable ride and decent power. But you have to weigh this against the Envoy's sloppy handing and below-average interior build and materials quality. For some, the Envoy may still be an appealing choice, but most shoppers will be better served by its more refined competition.
Current GMC Envoy
The current Envoy generation debuted for 2002 and now comes solely as a five-passenger SUV. However, through the 2006 model year, GMC also offered the extended-wheelbase Envoy XL, which provided seven-passenger seating and considerably more cargo capacity, but that vehicle was discontinued for 2007. In addition to the usual SLE and SLT trim levels, the Envoy is available in a top-line Denali model.
The Envoy SLE provides enough equipment to meet most buyers' needs, including dual-zone air-conditioning, a CD stereo, full power accessories, stability control, a trailer hitch and 17-inch alloy wheels. Shoppers wanting leather upholstery or a Bose sound system should go with the SLT or Denali. In addition to its styling distinctions, the Envoy Denali has a V8 engine, laminated glass, upgraded leather and extra sound insulation to give it a quieter ride. Full-length side curtain airbags and a rear entertainment system are available on all GMC Envoys.
Engine choices include a 291-horsepower, 4.2-liter inline six in the SLE and SLT and a 300-hp, 5.3-liter V8 in the Denali. The main difference between these engines is the 5.3-liter's extra torque, as a cylinder-deactivation feature allows the V8 to return similar mileage on the highway.
Although the current Envoy is reasonably roomy, seat comfort has never been a strong point, as both the front and rear seats are light on cushioning. With 80 cubic feet of cargo capacity, families of four will have adequate luggage space, but shoppers seeking a third-row seat will have to look elsewhere.
Aside from the cancellation of the seven-passenger version, not much has changed on the second-generation GMC Envoy since its debut. Initially, it was offered only with the inline-6 engine. The V8 became available on the Envoy XL the following year and on the regular Envoy for '05. The latter year also saw head curtain airbags replace the front side bags, while stability control joined the equipment list for '06.
In addition, an unusual model called the GMC Envoy XUV was offered in 2004 and 2005. A modern-day take on the Studebaker Wagonaire, the XUV was an Envoy XL stripped of its third-row seat and fitted with a retractable roof over its cargo bay. The result was a vehicle that could function as both a true SUV and a pickup. In practice, though, the multi-talented but odd-looking Envoy XUV proved to be a tough sell to consumers.
Past GMC Envoy Models
The first-generation GMC Envoy was sold from 1998-2000 (there was no '01 model). It was little more than an upscale version of the midsize GMC Jimmy, which debuted in '95, and was equipped much like today's Denali. The extra amount of features didn't mask its aged chassis and old-tech V6, however, and the two together delivered a mushy ride quality and lackluster acceleration at highway speeds. Other complaints included numb steering, a large turning radius and poor brake feel. Although these early Envoys are inexpensive to buy on the used market, subpar reliability keeps us from recommending them, even to buyers interested in an old-school, truck-based SUV.

GMC Savana Though potentially viewed as an anachronism in today's world of SUVs, minivans and crossovers, the GMC Savana full-size passenger van still has its place for those who need to transport really large groups or lots of cargo. With maximum capacities that are double that of even the most commodious minivan, the Savana is often the vehicle of choice for large families, small-business owners and fleet operators.
Like a lot of GMC products, the Savana is related to another General Motors product; in this case, it's the more well known and popular Chevrolet Express van. Both vans are a rolling testament to the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" school of vehicle design and have been soldiering on for nearly four decades with only one major redesign happening during that time.
Originally known as the "Rally wagon," GMC's full-size passenger van was renamed the Savanna in the mid-1990s. Interested shoppers will find that the current model's numerous wheelbase, powertrain and passenger configurations allow an appealing amount of customization. And like the Express, the GMC Savana provides driving dynamics that are superior to its main rival, the Ford Econoline.
If you're looking for a new or used van that's rugged, spacious and competent, the GMC Savana is a very good choice. However, those looking at new or late-model vans should also consider the Dodge Sprinter as it offers several advantages over traditional American full-size vans.
Current GMC Savana
The standard-wheelbase GMC Savana passenger van is available in half-ton (1500) and 1-ton (3500) configurations. The extended-wheelbase version (155-inch) is available only on the 3500. There are two trim levels: LS and LT. LS models are geared toward fleet service, while LT models come with more features to make them a little more livable. Passenger capacities range from eight to 15 people, depending on the model.
All Savanas come with a V8 engine. The 1500 is powered by a 5.3-liter V8 that produces 295 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. The 3500 is motivated by a 6.0-liter V8 good for 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are joined to a four-speed automatic transmission. Most Savanas are rear-wheel drive, though GMC does offer all-wheel drive for the 1500. For the 3500, GMC adds a standard stability control system.
The Savana's cabin won't win any beauty contests, but it does offer efficiency. However, a slight revamping for '08 yielded upgrades in switchgear and materials as well as key safety features that included stability control and side curtain airbags. Ergonomics are good, with controls that are intuitive and easy to access. Despite the overall spaciousness of these vans, though, footwells are rather tight. Rear access can be enhanced with a sliding passenger-side door or a 60/40-split driver-side rear door. In editorial reviews, we've found that either of the GMC Savana's V8s provides ample power, and its ride and handling characteristics are superior to its main Blue Oval rival.
Past GMC Savanas
The GMC Savana is a single-generation vehicle, but current models have evolved relative to earlier versions. The last major update occurred in 1996. It was at this point that the Savana debuted with basically the same engine lineup that it has today. A 195-hp 4.3-liter V6 was available through the 2006 model year. In past years, GMC also offered a 3/4-ton 2500-series model (now fleet only) and a luxury-themed Savana SLT trim.

GMC Savana Cargo
GMC Sierra 1500 The pickup truck has long been a mainstay of American byways and highways, and GMC has been there from day one. Originally used and respected by farmers, construction workers and small-business owners, GMC's hauler was a basic workhorse known for its reliability and longevity. More recent times have seen GMC's full-size truck adopt the name Sierra, which was previously an upscale trim level.
As with its rivals, the modern-day GMC Sierra 1500 full-size pickup is available with a wide variety of body styles, powertrains and trim levels. Thanks to this flexibility, the half-ton Sierra pickup is just as adept at serving as the weekday family car as it is at transporting home-improvement supplies or towing a boat on the weekends.
Older versions of the GMC Sierra 1500 pickup have been praised for their strong work ethic, but soundly criticized for their bland, often overly plastic-endowed cabins. With the current model, fit and finish has improved to the point where the Sierra now stands proud in that area. Of course, there are other choices in the full-size pickup truck market, but the half-ton GMC Sierra remains a solid pick no matter what the intended use.
Current GMC Sierra 1500
The current GMC Sierra 1500, introduced for 2007, is much improved over the past version in terms of cabin materials and build quality. Where there was once an abundance of lackluster design, hard plastic and uneven panel gaps, there's now richly grained upholstery, softer materials and precise fitments. The lineup offers three body styles (regular, extended and crew cabs) and trim levels ranging from no-frills "Work Truck" to ultra-plush Denali. The most popular trim is the midlevel SLE, which provides most features people want as standard, including air-conditioning, full power accessories and a CD player. A recent addition to the lineup is the rugged "All Terrain," which is essentially a fancier version of the Z-71 Off-Road package.
Powertrain choices, traditionally a strong point, encompass everything from a frugal 4.3-liter 195-horsepower V6 to a muscular 6.2-liter V8 with 403 hp. Most Sierras, however, will be fitted with either a 295-hp 4.8-liter V8 or a 315-hp 5.3-liter V8. A four-speed automatic is standard across the board (except for the Denali, which gets a six-speed unit) and one may choose either rear- or four-wheel drive.
Calling cards of the GMC Sierra 1500 include strong performance, a refined and quiet ride (even with the heavy-duty towing package) and a comfortable, well-finished cabin. The few downsides we've noted in reviews include minor interior ergonomic issues and the hesitant response of the four-speed automatic transmission in downshift situations. We have no quibble with GM's excellent six-speed automatic in the Denali, as it is smooth and spot-on in its performance.
Past GMC Sierra 1500 models
Most GMC pickup trucks considered by used-vehicle shoppers will be the previous-generation truck, which was sold for the 1999-2006 model years. Underneath the handsome styling, a family of new V8s debuted, ranging in size from 4.8 to 6.0 liters. They offered output ranging from 255 hp with the smallest 4.8-liter, to 345 hp from the high-output 6.0-liter V8 in the Sierra Denali. A base V6 was also available, but as expected, most Sierras came fitted with one of the V8s. (Buyers looking at the heavy-duty series Sierra 2500HD and 3500 of this generation could also get a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 or an 8.1-liter gasoline V8.)
A unique four-wheel-steering option (called QuadraSteer), came on-line about midway through this generation and cut the truck's turning circle down to 37.4 feet -- around 10 feet less than a typical full-size pickup. Unfortunately, QuadraSteer was discontinued for 2006, as buyers were put off by the high cost of this option.
Consumers more interested in function than flash should be happy with a half-ton Sierra from this era. The truck offered plenty of performance and work capacity, but was hampered by a dated cabin design fraught with cheap materials and below-average fit and finish.
The previous generation of GMC Sierra 1500 pickups ran from 1988-'98. Standard cab and extended cab body styles were offered, as was a crew cab, though the latter was actually from the previous 1981-'87 generation. Although six-cylinder and diesel V8s were offered, chances are strong that most GMC trucks from these years will have either a 5.0- or 5.7-liter V8 mated to a four-speed automatic. In keeping with tradition, one could choose either rear-wheel drive (indicated by a "C", e.g. "C1500") or four-wheel drive (indicated by a "K"). Trim levels for these C/K1500 trucks include the bare-bones Special, base SL, midlevel SLE and top-line SLT. Strengths of these trucks include powerful, durable powertrains while weaknesses center on sketchy build quality and subpar materials within the cabin.

GMC Sierra 2500HD Though "HD" has become common parlance, rest assured that the HD part of "GMC Sierra 2500HD" does not, in fact, involve plasma or LCD TVs. In this case we're talking the old-fashioned meaning of HD: "Heavy Duty." As GMC's 3/4-ton full-size pickup, the 2500HD is a true workhorse meant for big-league power, towing and hauling capabilities.
Current GMC Sierra 2500HD
The current Sierra 2500HD is much improved over the past version in terms of cabin materials and build quality. Where there was once an abundance of lackluster design, hard plastic and uneven panel gaps there's now richly grained upholstery, softer materials and precise fitments.
The GMC Sierra 2500HD is available in regular-, extended- or crew-cab designs, with a long or short wheelbase, and with rear- or four-wheel drive. The extended- and crew-cab body styles are offered in four trim levels: Work Truck, SLE1, SLE2 and top-line SLT. The regular cabin can only be had in Work Truck and SLE1 trims.
Standard on all Sierra 3/4-ton pickups is a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 353 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The burly Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that puts out 365 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque is optional. Its standard Allison six-speed automatic is well-suited for towing and hauling large loads.
When comparing General Motors' previous-generation heavy-duty pickups to those from Ford and Dodge, GM's trucks came out on top and we have no reason to doubt a similar outcome today. In our experience, the Sierra is now more competent, refined and easier to drive. Although multigenerational brand loyalty may dictate what heavy-duty pickup you take home, sticking with (or switching to) the GMC Sierra 2500HD is a solid decision.
Past GMC Sierra 2500HD
The previous-generation Sierra 2500HD was sold from 2001-'06 and lived on one more year as the "Classic" for 2007. There was a heavy-duty package available for the light-duty Sierra 2500 in 1999 and 2000. That light-duty Sierra 2500 has been discontinued. In terms of updates, there were changes made to the exterior and interior styling for 2003, with further exterior tweaks for 2005. These trucks came in Work Truck (after '03), SL, SLE and SLT trim levels.
The standard engine was a 6.0-liter V8 that made 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. There were two optional engines: an 8.1-liter gasoline V8 producing 340 hp and 455 lb-ft and a 6.6-liter turbodiesel producing 300 hp and 520 lb-ft. This diesel was upgraded in 2006 for more power and refinement and fewer emissions. It made 360 hp and a whopping 650 lb-ft of torque. These engines carried over for the Classic. A five-speed manual transmission was standard with the 6.0-liter V8, with a four-speed automatic optional. The 8.1-liter V8 and diesel engines came with either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic (which became a six-speed for 2006).
As with the current GMC Sierra 2500HD, we were always impressed by this generation's powerful engine lineup and substantial towing and hauling abilities. It was a reasonably comfortable truck for everyday use, but don't expect the plush ride of its light-duty siblings. Any of the three available engines will provide swift acceleration and ample towing power, but the diesel V8 is probably the best choice for those who tow heavy loads -- especially the more powerful 2006 Duramax. Our principal beef concerns the shoddy interior design, materials and build quality. GMC improved it gradually during its lifespan, but it was never quite up to snuff.
The previous-generation GMC Sierra 2500 ran from 1988-'98 with a significant refresh for 1995. It was known as the Sierra 2500 Classic for 1999 and 2000. Strengths of these pickup trucks include strong, durable powertrains, while weaknesses center on sketchy build quality and materials within the cabin.

GMC Sierra 3500HD For the past two decades or so, the Sierra 3500 has been GMC's most capable full-size pickup. Thanks to its stiffened suspension, sturdy frame, powerful engine choices and available dual-rear-wheel axle, the 1-ton Sierra is a go-to choice for those with big towing and hauling needs.
For that same period of time, however, the truck has suffered from lackluster interior design and below-par interior materials. For the GMC Sierra 3500HD, however, interior quality has improved considerably. This is a result of a recent redesign of General Motors' heavy-duty pickup trucks. Mechanically, it's pretty much identical to the Chevy Silverado 3500HD, with differentiation coming mainly through exterior styling and minor interior and feature alterations.
Current GMC Sierra 3500HD
The current GMC Sierra 3500HD, introduced for 2007, is much improved over the past 1-ton Sierra in terms of cabin materials and build quality. Where there was once an abundance of lackluster design, hard plastic and uneven panel gaps there's now richly grained upholstery, softer materials and precise fitments.
The 3500HD is available in regular, extended or crew cab designs. Rear-wheel or four-wheel drive is offered, as is a dual-rear-wheel axle. The extended-cab and crew-cab body styles are offered in four trim levels: Work Truck, SLE1, SLE2 and the top-shelf SLT. The regular cab Sierra can only be had in SLE1 and Work Truck trims.
Standard on all GMC Sierra 3500HD pickups is a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 353 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. The burly Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 that puts out 365 hp and 660 lb-ft of torque is optional. Its standard Allison six-speed automatic is well-suited for towing and hauling large loads.
In our experiences with the redesigned 1500, the Sierra is now more competent, refined and easier to drive. Although multi-generational brand loyalty may dictate which heavy-duty pickup you take home, sticking with (or switching to) the Sierra 3500HD should no doubt be a solid decision if you want a full-size, heavy-duty truck.
Past GMC Sierra 3500HD Models
Previous to the current truck, there were two past generations of the 1-ton Sierra. They were still known as 3500 but lacked the "HD" moniker.

GMC Yukon Buyers' tastes in large SUVs have changed over the years, and the GMC Yukon has changed with them. Introduced in the early '90s, the full-size Yukon sport-utility has gone from being a two-door 4x4 with a maximum passenger capacity of six to a four-door SUV with a choice of two- or four-wheel drive and seating for up to nine. Early Yukons were fairly basic on the inside, but later models offer numerous amenities, particularly the leather-lined Yukon Denali model. Road manners have improved greatly over the years, as it became apparent to GMC that Yukon buyers spend most of their time on pavement.
Some things haven't changed, though. The Yukon has always been a spacious vehicle that balances comfortable passenger accommodations with above-average cargo room. In addition, it has always used body-on-frame construction, providing it with a fair amount of off-road capability along with a stout foundation for towing. A succession of strong V8s has resulted in impressive trailer ratings over the years, as well as ample acceleration in just about any situation.
Now more refined than ever before, the GMC Yukon is one of the better full-size SUVs on the market for families who require a roomy, powerful vehicle that doesn't skimp on utility.
Current GMC Yukon
Fully redesigned for 2007 (along with its Chevrolet Tahoe platform mate), the current GMC Yukon rides on a stiff, fully boxed frame. The ride is smooth and quiet, while handling is surprisingly agile for a 5,500-pound vehicle. Inside, the dash has a sleek, modern design, and materials are attractive and of solid quality. Numerous seating configurations can accommodate anywhere from five to nine passengers, depending on the trim level and options you select.
The basic trim structure includes SLE, SLT and Denali models, though numerous package options allow for considerable variation within the lower trim levels. Yukon SLE models come with all the essentials, including stability control, tri-zone air-conditioning, a CD player and full power accessories, while the SLT should be your pick if you're looking for extras like leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Full-length side curtain airbags were standard on the SLT but optional on the SLE until 2008, when they became standard across the board. Buyers can choose either 2WD or 4WD on both the SLE and SLT. Choosing 2WD nets you a 290-horsepower 4.8-liter V8, while 4x4s get a standard 320-hp 5.3-liter V8 with a cylinder-deactivation feature that yields a highway mileage rating in the low 20s.
The upper-crust Yukon Denali comes with a full load of amenities as well as a larger 6.2-liter V8 good for 380 hp. Note that the Denali is all-wheel-drive only and can't be equipped with a low-range transfer case. It also has a slightly lower tow rating than regular Yukons.
Although the Yukon's credentials are solid, one downside is its hefty curb weight, which takes a toll on acceleration, braking and handling, particularly under the burden of heavier passenger/cargo loads. Additionally, its third-row seat lacks a fold-flat feature.
Past GMC Yukon Models
If you're shopping for a used GMC Yukon, the second-generation model sold from 2000-'06 is a good place to start. For the Yukon Denali, it's 2001-'06, as the 2000 model year was a carryover of the previous design. This generation of the Yukon was notable for its potent V8s, cushy interior accommodations, and pleasant ride and handling dynamics. It was, in fact, one of our favorite full-size SUVs and earned an Editors' Most Wanted distinction on multiple occasions. Weak points included numb steering, low-grade interior materials and inconsistent build quality. Front-seat side airbags were available throughout this generation, while stability control was available from 2003 on up.
The first-generation GMC Yukon debuted in 1992 as a replacement for the full-size GMC Jimmy, which had been on sale since 1970. Two-door Yukons were sold from '92-'97 with four-wheel drive only. The four-door Yukon arrived to stay in 1995 and offered a choice of 2WD or 4WD; the original Denali was available in '99 and 2000 with 4WD only. If you're considering a first-gen Yukon purchase, 1996-'99 models are your best bet. The standard 5.7-liter V8 was heavily revised in '96, and the result was significantly more horsepower and torque. First-gen Denalis also had this engine. Yukons of this era were comfortable and reasonably powerful, but not especially refined. Weak brakes and cheap interior materials were the major downsides.

GMC Yukon Hybrid
GMC Yukon XL