We are eagerly waiting for the next generation of this full-size SUV, which is about to come in the next year, as the 2021 GMC Yukon. The new model is in the testing phase and we’ve already seen the mule for a couple of times. Obviously, we will see a full load of novelties to come and many of them will come directly from the new generation of Sierra 1500, which debuted recently. Of course, we count on new mechanics, as well as on a completely new exterior and interior design.
Naturally, the most prominent will be those changes in terms of the styling, but interesting things are expected under the hood as well, as the engine lineup should be notably expanded. Given the pretty large amount of novelties, we are about to see in the new model a little bit earlier than usual and most reports suggest that it should happen sometime in the third quarter of the next year.
2021 GMC Yukon Redesign
Without any doubt, this will be a quite major redesign and the first thing that comes to mind is the platform. Of course, we are about to see the new T1 architecture, the same one that already underprints the new Sierra. The two models will share a lot of things and the new 2021 GMC Yukon will also benefit from the new platform in many ways. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is weight reduction.
The new model is about to save about 300 pounds, which will definitely have a nice impact on handling, efficiency and overall performance. Another important novelty we expect to see is in terms of mechanics. The testing model has been spotted with an independent rear suspension, which should be offered at least as an optional feature. This feature can already be found in the close rival Ford Expedition and improvements in terms of comfort over a traditional solid-axle design are obvious.
Exterior
Naturally, the 2021 GMC Yukon will come with completely new exterior design. The first thing that comes to mind is styling. We count on completely new aesthetics, based on the brand’s latest design language. In practice, this would mean the front face as in the new Sierra, which is characterized by a pretty massive and rugged approach. On the other side, the overall shape will probably remain similar. Still, the current model has a big issue with the tight third row of seats, so we may presume that the 2021 GMC Yukon will gain a couple of more inches in wheelbase. Still, don’t expect too much, as the stretched Yukon XL will be offered as well. Also, expect to see the luxurious Denali trim with distance styling details, just like in the outgoing model.
Interior
Big changes are about to come on the inside as well. As we already mentioned, one of the changes should be a more spacious cabin, considering that the current model is pretty tight in the third row. Of course, this means more cargo volume as well. Another aspect where we expect to see improvements is the overall interior quality. We count on higher quality of materials, as well as on new dashboard design. Naturally, the new model will go in direction of delivering more technologies, so a large touchscreen with a new infotainment system is one of the things we expect to see as well. Among numerous new tech features, there is also a chance to see some form of autonomous driving, maybe the same Super Cruise system that can be found in Cadillac models.
2021 GMC Yukon Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, we are about to see a pretty great expansion. Instead of two, the 2021 GMC Yukon will probably come with four engines in the offer. Two familiar V8 units will remain the same. A smaller 5.3-liter unit is good for about 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while a 6.2-liter unit features a max output of 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
When it comes to novelties, the first one we should mention is a new 2.7-liter turbo-four, which is good for about 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. This engine should be reserved for base models. Those who are looking for something even more fuel-efficient will have the option to choose an oil-burner. We count on the same 3.0-liter inline-six that can be found in the new Sierra, which is good for about 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
2021 GMC Yukon Release Date and Price
The 2021 GMC Yukon will hit the market next year, most likely in the third quarter. When it comes to the price, the new model could be a little bit cheaper, due to a new turbo-four engine. So, don’t be surprised if you see a price tag of around 45.000 dollars.
