To say that the Yukon is roomy is like saying the Grand Canyon is big. For 2015, the completely redesigned GMC Yukon is transformed into a more refined and powerful full-size SUV. The test driven 4WD 2015 Yukon presented a placid ride. That’s the big payback from upgraded chassis and suspension systems. Driving characteristics differ slightly between the 2014 and 2015 models. The new Yukon has a wider rear track (68.7 inches versus the prior model’s 67 inches), and the 2014 model’s power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering has been replaced with electric power assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Sold in three trims (SLE, SLT, and Denali), Yukon provides the segment’s first front seat center airbag on front bucket seat configurations.

A new direct injection 5.3-liter V8 produces 355 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 383 pounds-feet of torque at 4100 rpm. Continuously variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation are hallmarks of this EcoTec3 V8 engine. The 116-inch wheelbase Yukon serves up 94.7 cubic feet of cargo space with second and third row seats folded. (The 130-inch wheelbase Yukon XL provides 121.1 cubic feet of cargo space with those same seats folded.) A new for 2015 feature is fold-flat second and third row seats with available power fold-and-tumble second row seats and power fold third row seats. The 2015 Yukon SLT with 4WD, 5.3-liter V8, and 6-speed automatic transmission collects estimated mpg of 16 city/22 highway and carries a MSRP of $57,735.