2021 GMC Yukon Redesigned SUV Spied Testing


Just like the rest of GM full-size SUV family, the new-gen GMC Yukon will arrive sometime next year as a 2021 model.

The automaker will most definitely continue to offer its large SUV as a body-on-frame vehicle. However, the 2021 GMC Yukon will ride on a completely new platform – the same one that underpins the company’s 2019 Sierra pickup truck. It’s the T1XX architecture that trades steel for aluminum in order to shed as many pounds as possible.  Unofficially, the next-gen Yukon will come around 300 pounds lighter from its predecessor which will be a great help for the SUV’s fuel economy.

In addition to the lightweight bones, the large SUV will also significantly improve its ride quality. As far as we’ve found out, the redesigned vehicle will be matched with an independent rear suspension. Taking into account that the current model uses a solid rear suspension, it’s quite clear how better the Yukon’s handling is going to be.

Judging by Gmautority the 2021 GMC Yukon will offer four choices under the hood. Potential buyers will be able to choose between a pair of V8s, one turbo-four, and an oil-burner. Both V8 mills the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter will improve efficiency thanks to the company’s new cylinder deactivation system. Dynamic Fuel Management does an amazing job since it can deactivate up to seven cylinders during the ride.

Just like the rest of GM full-size SUV family, the 2021 Yukon will be hooked up to a new 2.7-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing 310 hp and 348 pound-feet of torque. This one will use cylinder deactivation too, so we expect the class-leading efficiency.

The carmaker will reportedly offer a 3.0-liter turbodiesel good for 280 hp and 420 lb-ft of grunt. All engines will be paired with an 8-speed gearbox; while GM’s new 10-speed automatic transmission comes as a more expensive option.

The new-gen of the SUV will come redesigned from the ground up without any doubt. However, since the testing prototype comes completely camouflaged it’s still pretty hard to figure out what’s changed. Unofficially, the successor will add a new seating arrangement with a higher level of comfort and better usability. The 2021 GMC Yukon will receive the company’s third-generation infotainment system, while we largely expect GM’s Super Cruise autonomous driving technology to be among options.

As always, the automaker will offer a regular and an extended 2021 Yukon XL models. The full-size SUV will continue to be produced at the GM Arlington plant in Arlington, Texas, USA.

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