Key Features of the 2026 GMC Yukon XL

3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6

GMC’s available 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 provides 305 horsepower and a commanding 495 lb-ft of torque, tailored for confident acceleration and relaxed long-distance cruising. The diesel’s low-end torque comes on early, making it an excellent match for towing duties or fully loaded cabin travel. Like every Yukon XL powertrain, it pairs with a 10-speed automatic that balances quick response with smooth shifts. If you plan to tow frequently, the diesel’s torque delivery below 2,000 rpm is a standout advantage, helping you pull steadily away from stoplights, merge with poise, and climb grades without constant downshifts. For families who take mountain trips or haul trailers, this engine’s effortless nature aligns perfectly with the Yukon XL’s calm chassis and stable footprint.

16.8-inch Diagonal Center Touchscreen with Google Built-in

Every Yukon XL is anchored by a vertically oriented 16.8-inch touchscreen that puts navigation, media, and vehicle settings at your fingertips. Google Built-in integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play, so you can plan routes with live traffic, control features by voice, and access compatible apps directly from the screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, avoiding cable clutter and streamlining daily routines. For passengers, optional rear-seat entertainment and an 8.0-inch climate control screen for second-row adjustments help everyone settle in fast. The system’s layout is intuitive, the display is crisp, and the response is fluid, which means reduced distractions and more meaningful time spent focusing on the road.

Max Trailering Capability and Transparent Trailer View

The Yukon lineup maximizes capability with smart engineering and equally smart tools. Properly equipped, a rear-wheel drive configuration with the 5.3L V8 offers a maximum rating of 8,400 pounds, while models with the 6.2L V8 or Duramax Turbo-Diesel can reach up to 8,200 pounds. Opting for four-wheel drive reduces ratings by 200 pounds across the board, but still leaves plenty of confidence for family boats, campers, and utility trailers. GMC’s available camera technology stands out, particularly Transparent Trailer View, which virtually “removes” the trailer from the rear camera feed to help you see stationary objects behind it. Add in jackknife alert and multiple camera angles, and the Yukon XL becomes much easier to maneuver in driveways, campgrounds, and crowded fueling stations—taking the stress out of trailering so you can enjoy the destination.

Denali and Denali Ultimate Interior Appointments

For buyers who want their family SUV to feel genuinely upscale, Denali and Denali Ultimate deliver. Inside, you will find open-pore wood trim with laser-etched topographical detailing, bright accents, and premium materials throughout. The front seats are 16-way power-adjustable with heating, ventilation, and massage functions that turn long drives into a relaxing routine. An available 22-speaker Bose audio system with speakers integrated into the second-row headrests creates an immersive soundstage that rivals many luxury sedans. Pair those upgrades with crisp digital displays and thoughtful storage solutions, and the XL’s spacious cabin transforms into a refined travel space—perfect for daily commutes, special nights out, and extended road trips.

AT4 Off-Road Hardware and Available Air Suspension

When your family adventures extend beyond paved roads, the AT4 trim is ready. It adds a two-speed transfer case for low-range control, underbody skid plates for added protection, and 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. An available air suspension can raise ride height by up to two inches to help clear obstacles, while the chassis’ independent rear suspension supports better ride compliance over rutted trails and gravel. The result is an SUV that looks adventurous yet feels composed on the highway—an ideal balance for drivers who spend most of their time on-road but want the confidence to explore trailheads, lake roads, and winter mountain passes when the weekend calls.