What’s New?
Because the early-introduction 2007 Yukon incorporates a broad spectrum of changes, the 2006 model has not been altered that much from 2005. The most noteworthy change is the new Vortec 5300 V-8 engine with FlexFuel, meaning it can burn gasoline or a mix of gasoline and ethanol. A tire pressure monitoring system is now standard on ¾-ton models, while ½-ton models now come standard with StabiliTrak stability control. All 2006 Yukon XL models, regardless of trim level, now come standard with OnStar telematics, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a tire pressure monitoring system, and stability control. The optional towing/camping extendable side mirrors now offer larger glass.

Overview
The 2006 GMC Yukon is a four-door, full-size SUV with seating for nine passengers. The Yukon XL, which is 20 inches longer than the standard Yukon, is GMC's largest SUV; it offers 27 more cubic feet of cargo room than the regular Yukon. According to GMC, the Yukon XL is the only SUV in its class (along with the Chevy Suburban platform-mate) offered in light- (1/2-ton) and heavy-duty (3/4-ton) versions. Even the mildest Yukon offers a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, while the heavy-duty XL can tow a trailer weighing up to 12,000 pounds.

GMC Yukon customers have four engines to choose from, all Vortec V-8s. The lineup starts with a 285-hp 4.8L, which is standard on two-wheel-drive Yukons. Four-wheel-drive Yukons and ½-ton XLs come standard with the 295–hp 5.3L engine. Standard on heavy-duty XL models is the 335-hp 6.0L, while the 8.1L (rated at 325 hp) is optional. Available on all models is the new 5.3L with FlexFuel capability. All Vortec engines are coupled to various four-speed automatic transmissions. Quadrasteer, GM’s four-wheel steering technology, has been dropped for 2006.

The Competition
The GMC Yukon and Yukon XL are part of the Large Utility segment. The seven SUVs (11 counting early-introduction 2007 models from GM that went on sale in the first quarter of 2006) in this category are preferred by those seeking versatile haulers that can adequately serve families with heavy-duty towing and hauling needs.

According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM the Yukon and Yukon XL had combined sales of 127,110 in calendar year 2005 (73,458 for the Yukon; 53,652 for the Yukon XL). The Chevrolet Tahoe is the segment sales leader, with 152,305 units sold in calendar year 2005. Also competing are the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Suburban, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Armada.