Yukon grows again

Yukon grows again
Photos by -Autonet.ca
Staff
Published: 01 02 2006

GM of Canada has announced pricing for the all-new 2007 GMC Yukon. The 2WD version will start at $44,615 while the four-wheel drive version will have a base manufacturer's suggested retail price of $48,030.

The Yukon XL Denali is the flagship of the line, with its unique styling and features — including a 6.2-litre variable-valve-timed V8, which delivers the most horsepower in its class, linked to a fuel-saving 6-speed automatic. In fact, all Yukon XLs deliver improved power and economy over the vehicles they replace.

Available in the second quarter of 2006, Yukon XL models have about 355 mm in wheelbase and 508 mm in overall length on their smaller Yukon siblings. All come in rear-wheel and 4-wheel drivetrains and come standard with a third-row seat.

A 5.3-litre V8 with Active Fuel Management (cylinder de-activation) is standard, and will be joined later in the 2007 model year by a new 6.0-litre all-aluminum V8 with Active Fuel Management and variable valve timing (VVT).

Wraparound front and rear fascias, faster windshield angle, styled mirrors and integrated running boards provide a seamless, contemporary appearance for the new Yukon XLs. The headlamps are larger, using bright halogen bulbs for improved lighting spread. Rear-end styling features unique treatments above the beltline and around the glass.

Yukon XL Denali is distinguished by unique honeycomb chrome grille, enhanced exterior bright work, unique 18-inch polished wheels (with the option of moving up to 20-inch chrome) and unique headlamps, taillamps and rear fascia treatment. Denali-exclusive headlamps and taillamps further the jeweled look with detailed lighting elements and clear lenses with etched GMC logos.

Inside Yukon XL, there is more room, furthered by a two-tone colour scheme, thinner and sculpted seats and lower-position instrument panel. Heated seats for front and middle-row passengers are optional. Front seats offer more fore/aft and recline travel, and the second-row seats have an increased seatback recline angle for added comfort.

An industry-exclusive power fold-and-tumble second-row seat eases access to the third-row seat. The power fold-and-tumble second-row seats feature release buttons accessible by the driver or on the interior C-pillar.

Tri-Zone climate control is standard on all models (automatic temperature controlled on higher-end models). Remote start system and an enhanced array of audio, infotainment and safety options are also is available.

As with the exterior, Yukon XL Denali is distinguished with exclusive features, including sophisticated Nuance leather seating, unique wood-trimmed center console, enhanced interior bright work and embossed door-sill plates. Power retractable side steps for all Yukon XL models come in mid-year.

More fore/aft front seat travel provides the segment's leading legroom for front-seat passengers. Second-row seat legroom and knee room, and third-row seat headroom are increased over the previous models. The third-row seats fold flat and are easily tumbled forward or removed for maximum cargo area. All Yukon XLs come with power liftgates.

Ride and handling is handled by a new suspension consisting of a new front coil-over-shock design and five-link rear setup. A new rack-and-pinion steering system provides precise and responsive control and enhanced on-center feel.

Larger, four-wheel disc brakes and an all-new ABS system ensure braking performance at the top of the segment. The ABS system works with the standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover protection (a GM first). Available Autoride real-time damping system uses electronically controlled shock absorbers to make nearly instantaneous damping adjustments. The system "reads" the road and anticipates the best damping rates.

Pricing for the other Yukon models (Yukon XL, Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali) will be announced later on in the year.

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