Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali, a behemoth of an SUV that promises luxury, space, and power. If you're in the market for a large SUV that can haul the whole family and their gear in style, the Yukon XL Denali is definitely one to consider. But is it the right choice for you? Let's break it down.

Overview

The 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali sits at the top of the Yukon lineup, offering a unique blend of features and amenities that set it apart from the lower trims. The “XL” in its name signifies that this is the extended-length version of the Yukon, providing even more cargo space and rear legroom compared to the standard Yukon. This makes it an excellent option for large families or anyone who frequently needs to transport a lot of stuff. The Denali trim is all about luxury, with premium materials, advanced technology, and a host of convenience features designed to make every journey a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

What Makes the Denali Special?

The Denali trim is synonymous with GMC's top-tier offerings. On the Yukon XL, it elevates the SUV to near-luxury status. Key highlights include:

• Unique Exterior Styling: The Denali boasts a distinctive grille, exclusive wheels, and chrome accents that set it apart from other Yukon models.
• Premium Interior: Inside, you'll find leather upholstery, wood trim, and aluminum accents, creating a sophisticated and upscale environment.
• Advanced Technology: The Denali comes standard with a wide range of advanced tech features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a premium sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies.
• Enhanced Comfort: Features like heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a power-folding third-row seat ensure that everyone rides in comfort.
• Powerful Engine Options: The Denali offers a choice of powerful engines, including a 6.2-liter V8 that delivers plenty of horsepower and torque for confident towing and hauling.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali doesn't disappoint. It offers a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads, and its powerful engines provide plenty of pep for accelerating and passing. The available four-wheel-drive system gives you added confidence in inclement weather or when venturing off the beaten path. Let's take a closer look at the engine options.

Engine Options

The Yukon XL Denali offers two engine choices:

1. 6.2-liter V8: This is the standard engine on the Denali and produces a robust 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. It provides plenty of power for hauling passengers and cargo, and it sounds great too.
2. 3.0-liter Duramax Diesel: For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the optional Duramax diesel engine is an excellent choice. It delivers 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, offering strong performance while also delivering impressive fuel economy for a large SUV.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the Yukon XL Denali feels surprisingly agile for its size. The independent rear suspension, which was introduced in the previous generation, helps to improve ride quality and handling. The available Magnetic Ride Control further enhances the driving experience by continuously adjusting the suspension dampers to provide optimal comfort and control. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the Yukon XL Denali delivers a smooth and refined ride.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali is like entering a luxurious living room on wheels. The cabin is spacious, well-appointed, and packed with technology features designed to make your life easier. From the premium leather seats to the large touchscreen display, every detail has been carefully considered. Let's take a closer look at what the interior has to offer.

Interior Features

The Denali trim comes standard with a host of premium interior features, including:

• Leather Upholstery: The seats are covered in supple leather, providing a comfortable and luxurious feel.
• Wood Trim: Real wood trim accents the dashboard, doors, and center console, adding a touch of elegance to the cabin.
• Aluminum Accents: Aluminum trim pieces provide a modern and stylish contrast to the wood and leather.
• Heated and Ventilated Front Seats: These seats keep you comfortable in any weather, with heating for cold days and ventilation for hot days.
• Heated Second-Row Seats: Passengers in the second row can also enjoy the warmth of heated seats.
• Power-Folding Third-Row Seat: The third-row seat can be easily folded down with the touch of a button, creating more cargo space.
• Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control: This system allows you to set different temperatures for the front and rear of the cabin, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable.

Technology Features

The Yukon XL Denali is also loaded with advanced technology features, including:

• 10.2-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System: This large touchscreen display is the heart of the infotainment system, providing access to navigation, music, phone, and other features.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: These smartphone integration systems allow you to seamlessly connect your phone to the infotainment system.
• Premium Sound System: The Denali comes standard with a Bose sound system that delivers clear and powerful audio.
• Head-Up Display: This feature projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.
• Rearview Camera: The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easier to park and maneuver.
• Surround Vision Camera: This system uses multiple cameras to create a 360-degree view of the vehicle, making it even easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

Space and Practicality

One of the biggest advantages of the 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali is its sheer size. With its extended length, the Yukon XL offers a cavernous interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. Whether you're hauling the kids to soccer practice or embarking on a cross-country road trip, the Yukon XL has you covered. Let's take a closer look at the space and practicality features.

Passenger Space

The Yukon XL Denali can comfortably seat up to eight passengers, with plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows. Even adults will find the third row to be surprisingly comfortable, making it a viable option for long trips. The second-row seats can be configured as either a bench seat or two individual captain's chairs, depending on your needs.

Cargo Space

With all three rows of seats in place, the Yukon XL Denali offers a generous 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. When you fold down the third-row seats, the cargo space expands to 93.8 cubic feet. And with both the second and third rows folded down, you get a massive 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space, making it easy to haul large items like furniture or camping gear.

Pricing

The 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali comes with a premium price tag to match its premium features. The starting price for the Yukon XL Denali is around $75,000, but the price can quickly climb with options and packages. While this may seem like a lot of money, it's important to remember that you're getting a lot of value for your money. The Yukon XL Denali offers a unique combination of luxury, space, and performance that is hard to find in other SUVs.

Final Verdict

The 2022 GMC Yukon XL Denali is a fantastic choice if you need a large, luxurious SUV with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It offers a smooth ride, powerful engine options, and a long list of features. However, it's important to consider the price tag and fuel economy before making a decision. If you're willing to spend the money and can live with the fuel consumption, the Yukon XL Denali is definitely worth a look. It’s a top-tier SUV that doesn't compromise on comfort or capability. Just be ready to handle its size in parking lots!