GMC Yukon XL Model Years and History

The Yukon and Yukon XL remain unchanged for 2026 since it underwent a thorough refresh last year. The only changes appear to be package-based, and Super Cruise now includes hands-on lane centering assist.

The GMC Yukon introduces several enhancements for 2025, including a more powerful Duramax 3.0L Turbodiesel I6 engine producing 305 horsepower. Recent technology features include an available 11-inch diagonal Driver Information Center, enhanced trailering capabilities, and updated safety systems. The exterior receives new wheel designs and LED lighting elements.

The GMC Yukon carries over with minimal changes for 2024.

The GMC Yukon adds a new Denali Ultimate trim to the 4x4 model for 2023 but otherwise carries over with minimal changes.

The GMC Yukon gets a few changes to options and packages for 2022 but otherwise carries over with minimal changes.

The GMC Yukon gets a full redesign for 2021.

The GMC Yukon heads into 2020 essentially unchanged, save for a few changes to the exterior color options. A new version of the Yukon is expected to be introduced as a 2021 model.

Heading into 2019 the GMC Yukon gets a new addition to its lineup; a Graphite Edition, available on SLT-level trims, it adds unique blacked-out exterior features, 22-inch aluminum wheels and unique suspension. Multiplying to the fun to drive factor is the Graphite Performance Edition, which includes equipment typically excusive for the Denali like the all-powerful 6.2L direct injected V8 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission and magnetic ride control.

One of the few changes to the Yukon in 2018 was to the Denali which gets a new 10-speed automatic transmission. Otherwise the Yukon remains relatively unchanged aside from minor updates to the appearance and contents in the options packages.

The Yukon gets several incremental upgrades for 2017. A new Teen Driver feature has been introduced which will allow parents to track their children and gain access to information like maximum speed and distance driven. The rear seat entertainment system was also upgraded for this year, while new aero shutters enhance aerodynamics on the highway.

Following a full redesign last year, the 2016 GMC Yukon adds Apple Car Play to a faster IntelliLink infotainment system. The Updated Driver Alert Package adds lane-keeping assist and automatic high-beam headlights, and a hands-free liftgate is now standard on the SLT trim.

The GMC Yukon gets a total redesign for 2015. The new truck returns with better, more distinct styling, an improved and more spacious interior and a set of new, more efficient engines.

Ahead of a full redesign next year, the 2014 GMC Yukon features few significant changes. The Hybrid model and Yukon XL 2500 have been discontinued, as has the convenience package, though many of that package's options -- backup camera, rear park assist, remote start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power adjustable pedals -- have become standard equipment on all Yukons.

The GMC Yukon is virtually unchanged for 2013. A new color, Champagne Silver Metallic is available and the transmission has been given a slight recalibration to improve engine braking.

Only a few changes found their way into the 2012 Yukon. Fog lamps are standard on across the lineup as are rear-seat audio controls. 22-inch wheels are now available on the SLE and SLT and the SLT now comes with heated seats.

GMC Yukon Hybrid models for 2011 get the latest Gen 9.0 version of OnStar for better voice recognition. Head restraints for the second row have been revised. On 2011 Yukon and Yukon XL models, a better trailer brake controller is introduced for 2011 and new chrome-clad wheels are now available. Across the Yukon lineup, Mocha Steel Metallic is a new exterior color.

The Yukon has nothing new for 2010 in either the Yukon or larger Yukon XL. The most noteworthy additions of past years -- the top-of-the-lineup Denali trim and the gasoline/electric hybrid join forces for the first time this year, with a Denali Hybrid model available.

For 2009, the GMC Yukon and its larger sibling, the Yukon XL, see few changes. The Yukon gets a new 6-speed transmission. Bluetooth hands-free connectivity is now standard on Yukon, with several minor options changes, package reshuffles and a few new exterior colors now available on both models as well.

For 2009, the GMC Yukon and its larger sibling, the Yukon XL, see few changes. The Yukon gets a new 6-speed transmission. Bluetooth hands-free connectivity is now standard on Yukon, with several minor options changes, package reshuffles and a few new exterior colors now available on both models as well.

The big news for 2008 is that a new Hybrid model, with GM's new 2-Mode hybrid system and a fuel economy improvement of up to 25 percent, joins the Yukon lineup. Otherwise, as the Yukon was completely redesigned for 2007, changes are relatively minor. The 6.0L V8 has been fitted with the active fuel management system, which helps save fuel, and a six-speed automatic transmission and StabiliTrak stability control are now standard on XL 2500 models. 17-inch wheels are now available on the XL2500. Also, head-curtain side impact air bags are now standard on all models, the base SLE model now comes with a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, and there are two new exterior colors this year: Stealth Gray Metallic and Sonoma Red Metallic for the Yukon, and Red Jewel Tintcoat and Dark Slate Metallic for the Denali.

The big news for 2008 is that a new Hybrid model, with GM's new 2-Mode hybrid system and a fuel economy improvement of up to 25 percent, joins the Yukon lineup. Otherwise, as the Yukon was completely redesigned for 2007, changes are relatively minor. The 6.0L V8 has been fitted with the active fuel management system, which helps save fuel, and a six-speed automatic transmission and StabiliTrak stability control are now standard on XL 2500 models. 17-inch wheels are now available on the XL2500. Also, head-curtain side impact air bags are now standard on all models, the base SLE model now comes with a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, and there are two new exterior colors this year: Stealth Gray Metallic and Sonoma Red Metallic for the Yukon, and Red Jewel Tintcoat and Dark Slate Metallic for the Denali.

General Motors has revised all their large SUVs for 2007, and the sharp new interiors on the Yukon lineup set high standards. The new chassis provides a solid base that results in a remarkably smooth ride for such a large, truck-based vehicle, and the braking and steering is much improved over the 2006 model.

General Motors has revised all their large SUVs for 2007, and the sharp new interiors on the Yukon lineup set high standards. The new chassis provides a solid base that results in a remarkably smooth ride for such a large, truck-based vehicle, and the braking and steering is much improved over the 2006 model.