GMC's full-size sport-utility wagon rides on the Sierra platform and totes Sierra powertrains that reach from a 275 hp 4.8-liter V8 to a 5.3-liter edition good for 285 hp. The 4WD Yukon adds an active transfer case and optional Autoride continuously-variable suspension.
The XL version has the Yukon structure but with inches added in length -- more power too. Half-ton XL stocks Yukon's Vortec 5.3-liter V8 with 275 hp, while the three-quarter-ton XL gets a 6.0-liter V8 spiked to 320 hp. Further, the big-block 8.1-liter Vortec V8 at 340 hp is available for the largest XL and increases tow rating to 12000 lbs. Quadrasteer 4WS becomes a new optional asset for Yukon XL 2500 (one-ton).
Denali represents the top of the line for Yukon and Yukon XL in deluxe editions equipped with leather seats, a permanently-engaged AWD system and smooth Autoride suspension. Power stems from the Vortex 6000 V8, with 320 hp in this installation as mated to an upgraded heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission. In the cabin, three rows of seats in tone-on-tone leather make room for up to seven riders plus cargo space. Denali in 2003 has a revamped instrument panel and optional captain's chairs on the second row, as well as an available DVD-based video entertainment system.
