If you have been looking for a luxury SUV that actually puts in the work, you have probably come across the 2023 Yukon XL Denali Ultimate. We recently got our hands on one of these at the shop, specifically the super rare baby Duramax diesel version. Being based right here in Ephrata, we see a lot of families looking for that perfect mix of fuel economy and high-end comfort.
After spending some time with it, there is a lot to talk about. This truck is a beast, but it is not perfect. Here is my honest take on five things I love and five things I absolutely hate about this Yukon.
What Makes This SUV Stand Out
Engine Options That Actually Make Sense
One of the best things GM did with this lineup is giving you a real choice. You can go with the 3.0L diesel or the 6.2L V8. Most big SUVs from Ford or Toyota force you into a turbo V6. With this diesel, you can cruise around Lancaster County and get close to 30 miles per gallon. If you want more of a thrill and don't mind the premium fuel, the 6.2L is there for the fun. Having that choice is a huge win for the consumer.
Super Cruise is a Game Changer
If you have never experienced Super Cruise, you are missing out. It is a full self-driving system that is an absolute lifesaver on long trips. I have taken the pickup version of this down to South Carolina, and let me tell you, driving down I-81 in traffic with your hands off the wheel and the massaging seat on is a spiritual experience. Just keep in mind you do need an active OnStar subscription to keep that feature rolling.
Factory Wheels Done Right
The wheels on the Denali Ultimate are easily some of the best-looking factory rims on the market right now. They are 22-inch wheels with a Vader chrome finish, which is basically a cool, darkened brushed chrome. They have a two-tone look that adds depth, unlike a basic all-black or all-chrome wheel. It gives the truck a custom look straight from the factory.
Interior Comfort and Massaging Seats
The seats in this thing are incredible. We are talking full grain leather with adjustments for your upper back, shoulders, and lumbar. The massage feature isn't just a gimmick either; it has multiple settings like roll, knead, and wave. I hear a lot of guys say they will never use it, but once they try it, they never want to go back to a regular seat.
The Best Ride in the Luxury Segment
The ride quality is where the Yukon really beats the competition. It uses magnetic ride control paired with full air suspension. You can actually feel the truck raising and lowering for entry or ground clearance. It drives like a Cadillac Escalade but without that extra Escalade price tag. It is hands down the smoothest riding SUV in its class.
Where the Yukon XL Denali Ultimate Misses the Mark
Poor Placement for Entertainment Screens
The DVD screens are mounted right on the back of the front seats, and I think it is the worst spot for them. Since there is a panoramic sunroof, they couldn't put them in the headliner. If you have kids in car seats, these screens end up right in their face, or worse, they hit the car seat and you can't slide your own seat back. Plus, they are just begging to have a sippy cup thrown at them.
Short Factory Warranty for High-Tech Gear
This truck is loaded with tech—massaging seats, air suspension, Super Cruise—but GM only gives you a 3-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. If you stepped up to an Escalade, you would get 4 years and 50,000 miles. With this much tech that could potentially break, I always tell my customers to make sure they have a solid extended warranty plan.
Towing Capacity Gaps
For a "Mac Daddy" SUV, the towing capacity is a bit of a letdown at 8,000 lbs. That might sound like a lot, but a comparable Ford Expedition can tow over 9,000 lbs. When you are loading up the whole family and a camper for a weekend at the lake, that 1,000-pound difference is a big deal. GM needs to close that gap to stay competitive.
The Screen is Too Small
In a world where every new vehicle has a massive tablet in the dash, the screen in the Denali Ultimate feels a bit tiny. Even a base Chevy Tahoe has a screen that feels just as big, if not bigger. When you are paying for the "Ultimate" trim, you expect the interior tech to reflect that premium status.
A Tight Interior Fit
Believe it or not, the interior feels a bit cramped compared to a Ford or a Toyota. Between the wide center console and the bulky door panels, there isn't as much elbow room as you'd expect. If you are a taller or broader person, you might find the driver's seat a little snug. I’d love to see them trim down the interior panels to give us back some of that cabin space.
Check Out the Full Video Review
If you want to see this 2023 Yukon XL Denali Ultimate in action and hear more about that baby Duramax diesel, check out the full video below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WS3thyZXtfw