2021 GMC Yukon – Atlanta, GA

As with any vehicle, the engine is an essential part of the ride, as that’s where your power is generated. While more power is often associated with speed, that won’t always be the most important factor. For the 2021 GMC Yukon, a more powerful engine means a more capable full-size SUV for you and your passengers.

The Three Engine Choices

The standard engine option will be a 5.3L V8 engine with up to 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The larger, upgraded option is a 6.2L V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Your third option is a diesel variant, the 3.0L Turbocharged I-6 with up to 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

You’ll have some fine choices ahead with three great engine options to choose from. The standard fare is more than adequate for most needs, but the upgraded 6.2L V8 is definitely a lot more powerful and will be able to handle heavier loads a lot easier. If you’re looking for better fuel economy without necessarily losing out on towing/hauling capabilities, then the diesel engine would be a great choice.

Part of the fun of learning about a new vehicle is seeing all the new features it comes with. A few of the best features coming with the 2021 GMC Yukon are the bits of technology you can find around the full-size SUV. At the front, there is a new class-leading available 15-inch diagonal head-up display to give the driver essential information while still allowing for them to keep their eyes on the road. In the back, you can find the available 12.6-inch rear-entertainment screens. They’re so big that even the third-row occupants won’t have a hard time viewing them. Plus, you can view the same or different content on either screen and share important information to the front screen; like a restaurant you’ve looked up on the integrated navigation.

Class-Leading Features

Part of the best features to be added are the class-leading available nine different camera views. You’ll have High Definition Surround Vision for a top-down view of the Yukon’s surroundings, Rear Camera Mirror to bypass potential vision obstructions, Hitch View for a close-up view of the receiver hitch, and much more. It can be a hassle driving a large vehicle, especially if the SUV is packed with passengers and cargo, and you’re towing a trailer, but the nine camera views can help to greatly reduce your stress by giving you increased visibility in difficult situations.

You’ll find many safety features on the 2021 GMC Yukon as well, either as standard or available options. Some of the best are Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Safety Alert Seat. As it is with any vehicle, it can be difficult to see what’s going on in your blind spot. If you’re driving a full-size SUV and have a trailer attached, it’s even more difficult. With advanced safety features, you can feel more at ease while driving because the vehicle will alert you in specific situations. Like if you’re going to change lanes, but there’s a vehicle next to you or your trailer, you’ll be alerted with Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert. 

While full-size SUVs aren’t always associated with extreme off-road adventures, it’s safe to say that there has been a slight change in mindset over the years. Everyone wants the versatility that an SUV is expected to provide, whether you’re talking about a subcompact, mid-size, or full-size SUV. So, we’ve been able to see full-size SUVs become more and more capable when it comes to hitting the trail.

The 2021 GMC Yukon AT4

Take the new 2021 GMC Yukon, for example. With this all-new vehicle, we’re able to see a famous GM trim, the AT4, attached for the first time. If you aren’t familiar with the AT4 trim, it’s the same outfit you’ll find on the GMC Sierra line of full-size pickups. You can expect a slew of additional features to come with this trim, making it perfect for when you’re driving across rugged and unforgiving terrain.

If you’re thinking about ditching the pavement for some rough trails, the Yukon AT4 model will provide you with some serious backup. And don’t think it’s only going to be an addition of off-road features because you’ll get premium amenities as well.

The Design

First off, the design of the AT4 trim is different. You can expect a large front grille with bold GMC lettering atop a dark chrome finish and front bumper found in gloss black. The AT4 front end has been designed to allow for a better approach angle for when you encounter steep grades. The wheels are 20-inch machined-aluminum with Carbon Gray Metallic accents and 20-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires. You’ll also have black roof rails and assist steps to round out the overall dark exterior appearance. The dark appearance continues on the interior with brushed aluminum accents and premium materials throughout. 

Off-Roading Features

For off-road situations, you have the all-new available Active Response 4WD System, which will send torque to the wheels it detects need it the most. This is particularly handy in slick driving conditions as well. You’ll also have Hill Descent Control for descending steep grades in your Yukon, allowing for a more smooth and controlled descent without constant braking. Perhaps two of the most exciting features are the Air Ride Adaptive Suspension and Magnetic Ride Control. You can adjust your ground clearance levels by up to two inches while your suspension and damper settings are being adjusted automatically. The end result is a much smoother ride for everyone.