Putting the new Yukon into motion is a 5.3 litre (325 cu in), aluminum block Vortec V8 - standard on four-wheel drive models - which
 |
| The new Yukon features a 5.3 litre V8 expected to deliver segment-leading fuel economy thanks in part to GM's Active Fuel Management technology. (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
is expected to deliver segment-leading fuel economy thanks in part to GM's Active Fuel Management (AFM) technology. This is the same 320 horsepower mill that propelled the Tahoe that I put through the paces in Arizona's outback. The smooth and refined engine, which effortlessly churns-out 340 foot-pounds of torque, did a commendable job of hustling the Tahoe up steep inclines and past slower highway traffic while never exposing whether it may be running on only four of its eight cylinders to conserve fuel. In the four-wheel drive Tahoe, this powerplant is EPA-rated at 15.7 and 11.2 L/100 km (15 and 21 mpg), city and highway respectively; although GM has yet to release EPA ratings for this engine when powering the Yukon, comparable figures should be anticipated for the conventional-sized Yukon. Interestingly, GM has also made this engine compatible with E85 ethanol-based fuel, a greener alternative to normal gasoline (for more info on GM's commitment to E85 ethanol-powered dual-fuel engines see automotive news section for Jan 2, 2006: Saab Shows Two New Vehicles at LA Motor Show).
Raising
 |
| Moving up to Denali status in will fetch the most powerful mill available in the line-up, a 6.2-litre (378 cu in), 380 horsepower VVT V8, capable of a mega 415 foot-pounds of torque (regular length Yukon Denali shown). (Photo: General Motors of Canada) |
the Yukon's performance-bar a notch is the optional 6.0-litre (364 cu in) V8, featuring AFM and variable valve timing (VVT) technology. This unit ups the Yukon's punch to 355 horsepower while boosting toque to 365 foot-pounds. Moving up to Denali status in will fetch the most powerful mill available in the line-up, a 6.2-litre (378 cu in), 380 horsepower VVT V8, capable of a mega 415 foot-pounds of torque. According to GM, this represents the most horsepower in the segment. Unlike the 4-speed automatic transmission backing the 5.3-litre engine, both heavy-hitting powerplants are affixed to 6-speed autoboxes featuring a tap-up, tap-down button to control overdrive gearing. Given the Yukon's maximum tow rating of 3,628 kg (8,000 lbs) in 4WD configuration, the Denali equipped with its mighty 6.2-litre small block may be trailer tower's dream.
