The Yukon XL's four-speed automatic transmission is connected to a transfer-case featuring GM's AutoTrak system. I was most impressed with AutoTrak. This system is controlled by four buttons on the dash that enable the driver to switch between automatic four-wheel drive (power is sent to the front-wheels when slippage is detected at the rear), locking four-wheel drive low, locking four-wheel drive high and conventional two-wheel drive settings. This is an efficient, user-friendly design. No more muddy boots from climbing outside to lock-in the wheel hubs. This selection of traction settings maximizes the traction needed to handle conditions varying from wet slippery highways to the most challenging off-road traverses that an owner might be crazy enough to tackle.
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| Four simple buttons on the dash make up GM's AutoTrak system, which make changing between traction settings a breeze. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
The Yukon can be ordered with specialized trailering and suspension packages. The trailering package adds a weight distributing trailer hitch platform and hitch receiver, heavy duty transmission oil cooler, high capacity air cleaner and a seven-pin sealed electrical connector. A gear lever mounted switch allows the driver to select a Tow/Haul mode as well. In this setting the transmission will hold gears longer, maximizing the use of the engine's torque. A Yukon 2500 equipped with a trailering package is capable of safely towing a best in class 5,443 kg (12,000 lb).
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| A big SUV demands a big motor, and the Yukon XL is powered by a 6.0-L Vortec V8 engine which produces 320-hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Add the off-road suspension package and your Yukon will arrive wearing LT265/75R16C on-off road blackwalls, gas pressurized shock absorbers, a high capacity air cleaner, off-road jounce bumpers and skid plates.
The Yukon XL is a bit of a behemoth. Moving it could have been an arduous task if it weren't for the 6.0-L Vortec V8, capable of 320 horsepower and a healthy 360 lb-ft of torque. Still, mass is mass, and the big SUV's acceleration is hardly neck snapping. Still general driving is good, passing power is plentiful, freeway on-ramps are devoured with ease and steep grades pose little threat. Three other Vortec V8 engines are available, the largest of which is an 8.1-L monster that punches out a massive 340 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque.