2023 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate
Overview
The iconic Denali name helped usher in the world of premium GMC trucks and SUVs when it first appeared for the 1999 model year. As such, the Yukon Denali became a credible alternative for drivers looking for an element of luxury beyond the traditional high-end auto manufacturers. Fast forward to the present, where GMC has again changed things up with the upcoming Yukon Denali Ultimate, which will be the top-tier trim for one of America’s favorite full-sized SUVs. This most-premium Yukon has standout features inside and out that will help it to rise above the competition in an ever-growing market segment.
Exterior Enhancements
Reinforcing the already strong appearance of the Yukon, GMC embedded the outside of the Denali Ultimate with distinctive Vader Chrome accents on the grille, front fascia, and front fenders. These unique treatments are contrasted with bright chrome along the window and door panels. Dark chrome GMC badging further separates this SUV from others in the brand’s lineup. Completing the Yukon Denali Ultimate’s head-turning looks will be a set of imposing 22-inch wheels with an exclusive seven-spoke design highlighted with alternating dark paint and bright chrome.
Interior Upgrades
The Yukon Denali Ultimate’s cabin will ooze comfort and elegance with yards of Alpine Umber leather covering the seats, center console, and armrests. Accenting the full-grain material will be another exclusive trait: plaited contrast stitching. GMC plans to use a combination of open-pore Paldao woodgrain and aluminum trim to complete the interior. This upscale SUV will also feature a topographical map of Mount Denali laser-etched into the wood above the glovebox. Even the leather-trimmed backrests are to be adorned with Mount Denali etchings.
Front seat passengers will enjoy 16-way power seats with massage and head restraint-based speakers with etched metal grilles. These audio outlets are part of an advanced 18-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system that’s coming to GMC for the first time.
Advanced Technology
This Denali Ultimate trim will be the first Yukon to get the acclaimed Super Cruise driver assistance technology. The available trailer-capable option can automatically change lanes or aid with towing on more than 200,000 compatible roads in the U.S. and Canada. Among the Yukon Denali Ultimate’s other technology credentials will be a 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen system with built-in Google, a 15-inch head-up display, and a 12-inch digital driver information display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will come standard as well.
Sophisticated Engineering
For some, the most captivating attribute of this most exclusive Yukon will be its mechanical prowess. Underneath the hood there’ll be a potent gasoline-powered 6.2-liter V8 that’s rated for 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. Buyers may also choose the available Duramax 3.0-liter Turbo-Diesel inline-six making 277 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. Both powerplants get paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. Adding to the ’23 Yukon Denali Ultimate’s capability will be the standard Active Response 4WD system, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a two-speed transfer case. GM’s Magnetic Ride Control and an adaptive air ride suspension promise to keep long and short trips smooth and comfortable.