In the increasingly competitive landscape of full-size SUVs, GMC rises to the challenge with the 2025 Yukon, particularly with its new AT4 Ultimate trim. This flagship off-roader embodies a blend of rugged capability and luxury, but as I spent a week behind the wheel, I began to wonder—what exactly is the Yukon trying to be? With features that simultaneously cater to adventure seekers and luxury aficionados, it feels like it’s trying to please everyone, but this duality may also spread it a bit thin.
The aesthetic of the Yukon has undergone thoughtful revisions, especially with its fresh interior design. All models now boast a striking 16.8-inch central touchscreen, an upgrade that enhances both functionality and style. However, one glance is all it takes to sense the tension between luxury and utility. The upholstery juxtaposes buttery soft leather against rubbery textures, creating an intriguing yet confusing vibe that leaves you questioning its true identity. The bold, meaty all-terrain tires wrap around massive 20-inch alloy wheels, which offer a rugged appearance but might actually serve more for show than for serious off-road performance. With imposing red tow hooks and underbody lights that create an inviting aura upon approach, the Yukon tries to impress at first glance.
However, stepping inside reveals a cabin where the commitment to both off-road functionality and high-end comfort sometimes clashes. Sure, the first step is a vertical challenge—thankfully, the power-deploying running boards are a lifesaver for those of us who find larger SUVs daunting. But while the interior is undoubtedly spacious, it doesn’t feel particularly airy, largely due to the all-black palette. The oversized dash and ample center console can create a sense of confinement, which feels ironic in a vehicle designed to offer freedom on the open road.
Seat adjustment options are surprisingly limited, even at the Ultimate trim level, with just eight ways of movement available. Though they offer heating, cooling, and even a massage function, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more flexibility to find the perfect driving position. Every Yukon model comes equipped with the generous 16.8-inch touchscreen, which is packed with impressive Google built-in tech. Sure, you have access to Google Maps and the Google Play store, but at times, the size of the screen can feel excessive—leaning forward is sometimes necessary to reach the far edges of the display.
Ultimate models also step up the entertainment game with added bells and whistles, such as more Bose speakers, a head-up display, and the intriguing Super Cruise hands-free driving tech. However, you might swallow hard when you see the price tag—my test vehicle topped the scales at an eye-watering $102,000 after factory upgrades. This hefty cost reflects the impressive technology and features onboard, yet it begs the question: is this SUV worth the investment?
As I navigated familiar city streets and ventured off the beaten path, I ultimately found that the Yukon AT4 Ultimate can indeed cater to both worlds, but perhaps without the full commitment to either. Its attempts at luxury might leave some off-road enthusiasts wanting, while those seeking a plush ride could feel the rough edges. It seems that the 2025 GMC Yukon is on a quest for balance—a pursuit that may end up asking you to decide what you truly want from your full-size SUV.The 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 Ultimate is more than just a massive SUV; it’s a commanding presence that blends rugged utility with a touch of luxury, designed for those who navigate both urban jungles and off-road landscapes. While many may consider it a formidable contender in the crowded SUV segment, it’s essential to delve into what makes this vehicle tick and whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.
The Yukon’s engineering heritage is more akin to pickup trucks than the likes of a Range Rover or BMW X7. Beneath its imposing exterior lies a robust separate ladder frame, which is integral for durability and performance. The Yukon makes use of an independent front suspension paired with a solid rear axle, offering the capability to tackle uneven terrains with confidence. Most versions feature traditional coil springs, but the AT4 variant is elevated by magnetic dampers, enhancing overall ride quality.
In the AT4 Ultimate, drivers have the option of air springs, which can be an invaluable upgrade for those who frequently encounter challenging road conditions or want a smoother ride for family trips. Though priced at around $2,060 within the Premium Trailering Package, this investment pays dividends in comfort, especially when navigating bumpy roads or city potholes. With its high-profile tires and cushioned air suspension, the Yukon AT4 excels at absorbing the harshness of poorly maintained surfaces.
Despite its size—stretching an impressive 210.1 inches and weighing in well over 5,600 pounds—the Yukon maneuvers surprisingly well. It calmly plows through snow and can tackle rugged, unpaved roads, although the dimensions make it less agile for tight off-road challenges. In addition, the air suspension system provides the ability to adjust the vehicle’s height for improved stability and comfort at higher speeds, while also rising a couple of inches for enhanced ground clearance when necessary.
Powering this hefty SUV is a choice between a 355-hp 5.3-liter V-8 or the more robust 6.2-liter V-8, which cranks out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. For many drivers, the latter engine offers a more delightful driving experience, providing smooth power delivery and a level of performance that better complements the vehicle’s capabilities. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures that shifts are seamless, making the Yukon a joy on open roads, while the various modes—including Sport and Off-Road—allow drivers to engage with the vehicle’s performance dynamically.
Driving the Yukon, particularly in urban settings, can sometimes feel like navigating a behemoth, especially given its high roof pillars and expansive dashboard. However, the inclusion of the Super Cruise feature bridges the gap between handling and comfort. It allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways, which is particularly helpful during long stretches of travel, letting the driver focus on the road while the system maintains safe lane positioning.
More than just a powerful engine and spacious cabin, the question remains: Is the GMC Yukon Denali the real contender in this lineup? The AT4 Ultimate may bear a hefty price tag—starting at nearly $98,000 with the more powerful V-8 engine—but it doesn’t fully deliver the luxury one might expect, especially considering some interior materials feel a tad less refined compared to more stylish rivals.
With starting prices that can snowball from about $68,895 to way beyond $95,000, the GMC lineup seems to stretch its offerings thin. Interestingly, it’s the Denali trim that emerges as a well-balanced option. Clad with upgraded features such as Super Cruise, top-tier trailer tow tech, and luxurious touches, it solidifies itself as one of the better-equipped choices in the Yukon family without completely breaking the bank.
For those thinking about a big, capable SUV that balances towing abilities and comfort, the GMC Yukon—especially in its Denali trim—could be the perfect companion. It delivers on comfort for road trips and the spaciousness needed for family adventures while also being equipped to handle the demands of daily life. Simply put, it’s an SUV that strives to be more, making it worthy of consideration for anyone on the hunt for their next vehicle.
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