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TCC unveils Yukon and Yukon Denali early!


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ANAHEIM, Calif. – GMC unveiled the all-new 2007 Yukon and Yukon Denali full-size SUVs Oct. 5. They are based on GM’s all-new full-size SUV family, which features distinctive styling, spacious and refined interiors, exceptional driving characteristics and enhanced safety features.

The new Yukon family is distinguished with sleek, expressive styling that announces a new look for GMC vehicles – styling that conveys GMC’s professional grade qualities and a distinct design from other GM vehicles. The vehicles offer more power and better fuel economy than the vehicles they replace, enhancing GMC’s “more than expected” reputation.

“The all-new 2007 Yukon and Yukon Denali bring GMC’s professional grade philosophy to a new level – we’re aiming to provide customers more than they expect in all respects,” said John Larson, GMC general manager. “Yukon Denali is our flagship and delivers the performance and features of a luxury SUV, along with the full capability demanded in a full-size truck.”

Yukon and Yukon Denali are available early in the first quarter of 2006. Yukon is available in SLE (cloth trim) and SLT trim (leather appointments), as well as 2WD and 4WD configurations. Yukon Denali is a distinct model, with differentiated, exclusive features that elevate its performance and style to an unprecedented level – including an exclusive 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 engine with variable valve timing and a new six-speed automatic transmission.

Distinctive design

Yukon and Yukon Denali have a sleeker, taut form. Wraparound front and rear fascias, styled mirrors and integrated running boards provide a seamless, contemporary appearance. Craftsmanship is found in elements such as tight tolerances between exterior components and a tuned, wheels-to-the-corners proportion. The wheels are aligned on the same plane as the outer edges of the fenders, giving the vehicle a confident, broad-shouldered stance.

The toned look on all models is created with faster windshield angle of 57 degrees, which flows gracefully into the roofline. This also improves aerodynamic performance to a segment-best 0.363 cd, which helps improve fuel economy and reduce wind noise.

Jewel-look lighting elements, wraparound fascias and doors that extend over the rockers accent the vehicles’ precise and refined design elements. The headlamps are larger, using bright halogen bulbs that deliver improved lighting spread. Rear-end styling also is distinct, with unique treatments above the beltline and around the glass, including taillamps and integrated license plate pockets.

Yukon Denali is distinguished with exterior appointments that take its exclusive appearance to a higher, more differentiated level. In addition to its iconic chrome grille, the ’07 Yukon Denali also features enhanced exterior bright work, unique and premium-look headlamps, taillamps and rear fascia treatment, as well as unique 18-inch standard wheels – 20-inch wheels are available. The headlamps and taillamps further the jeweled look of Yukon models with detailed lighting elements and clear lenses – with etched GMC logos on the headlamp bezels – that provide a crystalline appearance and distinctive lighting patterns.

All models offer features such as articulated running boards (available mid-year) and a power liftgate. Vehicles not equipped with the power liftgate feature an easy-to-operate liftgate that is specially designed with a micro-switch that assists the operator by using the mass of the tailgate to almost open or close itself once the liftgate is past the halfway-open position. An ergonomically designed, recessed cup with pull handle makes closing the liftgate an easy, one-handed operation.

Spacious, refined interior

Interior space is roomier – including increased cargo capacity – and has a spacious, luxurious environment, thanks to a premium two-tone color scheme and a lower-positioned instrument panel. New thinner, sculpted seat designs and detailed trim affirm Yukon ’s craftsmanship, which is bolstered by amenities such as heated seats for first- and second-row passengers. Also, the front seats offer more fore/aft and recline travel, and the second-row seats have an increased seatback recline angle for added comfort.

The two-tone interior appearance contributes to the vehicles’ aura of a roomy, luxury sedan. The upscale styling is complemented by new, softer and low-gloss materials for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. The harmonious color and grain of the materials was carefully selected to provide a premium feel as well as durability. Flush-mounted controls and radios, with almost imperceptible gaps, convey precision and integration. Chrome accents are used on instrument surrounds, vents and other trim.

Craftsmanship also is revealed in unexpected areas: distinctive sill plates with no visible hardware greet occupants when the doors are opened and there are no exposed fasteners or hardware on the pillars, seats or seat tracks. The seats have “close-outs” that surround the seat bottoms and seat tracks, creating a more finished appearance. Fasteners and hardware are covered, too, when the seats are folded.

As with the exterior, Yukon Denali is distinguished with exclusive, premium features, including luxurious nuance leather seating surfaces, unique center console, enhanced interior bright work and detailed, highly finished embossed sill plates that greet passengers when they open any of the Yukon Denali’s doors. The unique center console has wood trim that conceals the lid and cupholder pockets, creating a more finished and refined appearance.

The Yukon family also offers a new, industry-exclusive power fold-and-tumble second-row seat feature that eases access to the third-row seat. The power fold-and-tumble second-row seats feature release buttons accessible by the driver or on the interior C-pillar to provide an easy, immediate release of the seat to create an access path to the third-row seat or cargo area.

Tri-Zone climate control is standard on all models. Automatic climate control is standard on Yukon Denali and Yukon SLT; it is available on Yukon SLE. A remote start feature, standard on SLT/Denali models and available on SLE, allows the climate system to heat or cool the vehicle’s interior. An enhanced array of audio, infotainment and safety options also is available and includes an available touch-screen navigation system, as well as a DVD system with larger flip-down screen.

There is more space inside the SUVs, as well. More fore/aft front seat travel provides the segment’s leading legroom for front-seat passengers. Second-row seat legroom and knee room, and third-row seat headroom are increased over the previous models. The second- and third-row seats also have more shoulder room – a feat accomplished while also offering available roof-mounted head curtain side air bags. Cargo room has increased 4.2 cubic feet (118.9 liters) behind the second row seats and 2.3 cubic feet (65.1 liters) behind the third row. The third-row seats fold flat and are easily tumbled forward or removed for maximum cargo area. Also, the center console storage compartment, at 20.1 liters of capacity, is the segment’s largest. The glove box offers 25 percent more storage space than previous models and features damped opening operation that bolsters quietness and refinement.

Responsive driving experience

The ’07 Yukon and Yukon Denali are built on GM’s new full-size SUV platform, which incorporates features such as a new, fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering. The new frame offers 49 percent increased torsional stiffness and 35 percent improvement in beaming frequency, compared to previous models. The frame supports wider front and rear tracks – approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) wider in front and 1 inch (25.4 mm) wider in the rear – that enhance stability and driving confidence through a more secure road feel and a lower center of gravity.

The front suspension consists of an all-new coil-over-shock design that delivers linear, solid and unwavering ride and handling characteristics on all road surfaces. Also new is a rack-and-pinion steering system that provides precise and responsive control and enhanced on-center feel. A highly-refined five-link rear suspension provides superior isolation and ride, with larger, firmer brackets that also contribute to the vehicles’ precise driving manners.

Larger, four-wheel disc brakes and an all-new ABS system ensure braking performance at the top of the segment. Larger vented front and rear brake rotors, 50-percent stiffer dual-piston calipers, longer-life brake pads and a new, robust tie-rod-type apply system contribute to enhanced pedal feel, reduced brake noise, predictable, linear brake response and shorter braking distances. A new, Bosch 8.0 next-generation four-channel ABS system also is standard. The ABS system works with the standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system. In the new SUVs, StabiliTrak incorporates the first-time GM application of roll-over mitigation, software algorithm technology that uses sensors to proactively predict vehicle “tip-up” and applies appropriate brake forces to prevent such events.

Enhanced driving control and ride smoothness is offered with the available Autoride real-time damping system (standard on Yukon Denali), which uses electronically controlled shock absorbers to make nearly instantaneous damping adjustments. The system “reads” the road and anticipates the best damping rates.

Seventeen-inch wheels are standard on Yukon, with 18-inch wheels standard on Yukon Denali. Twenty-inch wheels are available on Yukon and Yukon Denali. The wheels are designed with premium-appearance faces, including available chrome or polished finish. Yukon Denali wheels are exclusive. New tires are tailored to the vehicles to provide excellent balance of handling, quietness and safety.

A new Gen IV small-block V-8 family powers the Yukon family and offers more power than comparable powertrains in previous models. A 5.3L small-block V-8 is standard at start of production in Yukon and is rated at 320 horsepower (238 kw)* and 340 lb.-ft. of torque (470 Nm),* an 8 percent horsepower increase compared to the previous 5.3L engine. A Flex-Fuel E85 version, which is capable of running on E85 ethanol fuel or a mixture of E85 and gasoline, is standard on 4WD models and available on 2WD models. E85 is comprised of 85 percent ethanol, which is a renewable resource fuel produced in the United States. A 4.8L V-8 engine, rated at 290 horsepower (216 kw)* will become the standard engine of Yukon 2WD models later in the ’06 model year.

The 5.3L engine’s Displacement On Demand technology enables better fuel economy. When combined with other vehicle-wide features, including improved aerodynamics, the small-block V-8 helps provide the segment’s best fuel economy. The 6.2L engine of the Yukon Denali is all-new, with advanced technologies and lightweight materials – including variable valve timing and an aluminum cylinder block – contributing to the vehicle’s uncompromising performance. It produces 380 horsepower (283 kw)* and 415 lb.-ft. of torque (564 Nm).*

The engines are backed by proven Hydra-Matic electronically controlled automatic transmissions, including a new 6L80 six-speed that is matched with the 6.2L engine.

The six-speed automatic has a wide, 6.04:1 overall ratio – including two overdrive gears – that helps deliver an excellent balance of performance and fuel economy. Also, the 6L80 has a “tap up/tap down” capability that allows the driver to manually select upshifts and downshifts with a button on the column shifter.

Safety and security

As with all vehicles built on GM’s new full-size SUV platform, the ’07 Yukon family features a 360-degree safety system designed around the pillars of occupant protection, driver control and personal safety.

New features, including exclusive safety belt pretensioners linked to sensors for rear-end crashes, are integrated into a stronger vehicle structure that is also designed for improved compatibility with other vehicles – helping Yukon protect those inside and outside of the vehicle before, during and after a crash. The exclusive rear pretensioner sensors can trigger the front seat pretensioners during a rear-end collision, holding the occupants firmly in place and helping to prevent whiplash injuries

Also, new roof-mounted head curtain air bags with tethers are available for all seating rows (standard on Yukon Denali). The roof-mounted air bags’ tether system keeps the bags in place longer to further protect and contain occupants. The bags stay inflated for several seconds longer to provide optimum protection in the case of a rollover or crash with secondary impacts. Sensors located at the front and rear of the vehicles, as well as the side doors provide increased and more immediate crash detection.

The myriad of crash sensors are complemented by increased roll-over detection from the standard StabiliTrak stability control system with new rollover mitigation technology. The electronically controlled system continuously measures the side angle of the vehicle and, if a rollover appears imminent, it can deploy the side-curtain air bags before the crash occurs. The 360 degrees of detection capability allows the electronically controlled safety systems to deploy in a greater variety of situations.

Crash avoidance is bolstered through enhanced driver control dynamics, driven by the standard StabiliTrak stability control system. It is supported by dynamics such as wider front and rear tracks, as well as more responsive suspensions. The vehicles’ stronger and stiffer, fully-boxed frame is designed for improved crash energy management. The front frame section, for example, has improved crush dynamics that provides the equivalent of 17.7 inches (450 mm) of additional crush space – in vehicles that are only approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm) longer than their predecessors. The frame also is designed for improved vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility in the event of a frontal impact with a smaller vehicle.

Additional safety and security features include:

Standard dual-stage driver’s front air bag

Standard dual-stage outboard-front passenger air bag with passenger occupant detection system

5-star frontal impact ratings anticipated

Standard tire pressure monitoring system

Available rain-sensing wiper system

Available Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist that can detect people or objects in the rearward path of the vehicle and send an audible warning sound

Available rear-view camera system that can visually detect people or object in the rearward path of the vehicle

Standard pull-up/push-down power window switches

All models come with the Generation 6 OnStar system (with a one-year Safe and Sound service plan), which provides the personal protection component of Yukon ’s safety pillars. The system includes the General Motors Advanced Automatic Crash Notification (AACN) system, making crash data available to emergency services to potentially dispatch the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes faster. If the vehicle is in a crash that activates an airbag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar Advisor who will check on the occupants or summon emergency help if necessary. OnStar also can assist authorities in locating a vehicle if it is reported stolen (ability to locate stolen vehicles varies with conditions).

Denali details

The iconic Yukon Denali delves deeper into the luxury SUV realm with enhanced features and craftsmanship that distinguish it from other models. It is a comprehensive package of performance, amenities and style that delivers a powerful, understated elegance that is unique to GMC.

Yukon Denali remains instantly identifiable, with its Denali-specific chrome grille. In addition to the grille, the ’07 model includes chrome-accented side molding, roof rack trim and other bright work treatments. Additionally, the headlamps and taillamps are unique and feature a premium, crystalline appearance and distinctive lighting patterns.

The new Yukon Denali is powered by an exclusive, 380-horsepower (283 kw) 6.2L V-8 engine, six-speed automatic transmission with tap-up/tap-down shifting and automatic all-wheel drive – a powertrain not shared with any other Yukon model. Eighteen-inch polished aluminum wheels are standard and unique 20-inch factory installed chrome-finish aluminum wheels are available – the wheel designs are not shared with other Yukon models.

Yukon Denali also offers a unique combination of interior style and luxury, including standard nuance leather-covered seating with heated first- and second-row seats, as well as leather trim throughout – including a Denali-exclusive leather-wrapped steering wheel, which also features real wood accents and a host of auxiliary controls. Yukon Denali also is the only model in the Yukon family to offer an available heated steering wheel.

Other standard features include power liftgate, power release 2 nd row fold-and-tumble seat, roof-mounted side-curtain air bags, power-adjustable pedals, electrochromic (auto-dimming) inside mirror, RainSense automatic windshield wipers, remote start and Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist. From an entertainment standpoint, Yukon Denali comes standard with an AM/FM MP3-capable radio with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, Bose premium nine-speaker sound system and XM Satellite Radio.

Like other Yukon models, the Yukon Denali offers several helpful and convenient options, including a navigation radio system, rear-view camera system, power sunroof, power-retractable assist steps (available mid-year) and a rear-seat, DVD-based entertainment system.

*Preliminary, pending certification. A new voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code committee was approved March 31, 2005. This procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using the procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.



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Edited by Josh
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That front certainly does not look too good to me. It seem as if the grille is "stretched" and is not in proportion with the rest of the vehicle. Cudos to GM for allowing TCC the rights to these images. HORRAY!!
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The interior is still the high point of the vehicle. The outside just seems incredibly bland, but I guess it's a clean look. As for the front end, in these pictures it perhaps doesn't look as odd. Still, the headlight cluster is too tall, and why such big, prominent round amber DRL's over the main headlight? The grill tapers down too much. This accentuates height. It would look better balanced if it was broader at the bottom. The wheels look good. Eight spokes for the Denali are unexpected.
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I really like it.......The tail lights on the Denali look like they are in a clear housing, and the normal Yukon ones are in a red housing. I like this much more than the Tahoe. Like someone said the front end almost looks concept like. Wait till you guys see the Escalade. It is stunning. Edited by CadillacCTS
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I don't know...I really don't like this at all...That front just looks...fugly to me...maybe it will grow on me...but i don't know...also, it seems like it is missing something...

[post="24089"]<{POST_SNAPBACK}>[/post]


I saw this in person about 1 week ago and these pictures just dont do it justice. Wait until you see it in person. We saw a deep red Yukon Denali and it was just amazing.
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These pics make them look better than the ones posted at GMI, but I'm still a little underwhelmed at both. I don't really like the grilles and headlights on either, but the rear and sides are good. Something makes them look more feminine than the Tahoe...and GMC in my mind should always be more brute. Maybe they'll grow on me.
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Well its better than the Tahoe I will give it that. They seem to be taking baby steps with their new suvs. The Tahoe was hmm ok, then they said lets be a little more daring with the Yukon so... the Escalade will be the boldest I will assume. The standard Yukon I have to say looks better than the Denali. That seems to be the general consensous.
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Not as much exterior differentiation between the regular Yukon and Denali this time, it looks like grille texture, side moldings, taillights and roof rails, along with possibly wheels. The current Denali has completely different front lights, grille shape, and front bumper.

It looks clean, and I expect it to grow on me. I want to see it in person. So far, I prefer the sportier Tahoe.
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Cheers to GM for the increased level of differentiation. Thumbs down for not pursuing an updated "terra" design theme. Those chubby headlights remind me of the minivans, and the grill is too small. However, I do like this truck, as it looks good as a whole. The designers should be commended for making this different styling theme "work" with the rest of the body...a common problem with "badge jobs." Cheers GM! Let's see that Escalade!
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For comparison's sake:
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Though I love the interior and all the mechanical improvments, there's still something about the current design that catches my eye more--sharper, crisper, more balanced lines, I think. The new one isn't ugly by any means, but there's still "something".

The fit & finish on the current trucks can really be awful (have you EVER seen one that actually had the front bumper up where it should be and not hanging crooked with a huge gap at the top?), and the interiors, while still the most comfortable in the class, sucked big time from a style and materials standpoint. At least the new trucks more than fix all of that.

Actually, the more I read on the specs of these trucks, it seems like they REALLY did make changes and improvements to things a real-world owner would like--for example, re-engineering the back hatch so that it opens and closes much easier, even without power assist. Same thing with the new rack & pinion steering that will, hopefully, cure the current truck's tendency for slight wander on center. And again, same with the brakes, which have always been a major sore spot on the current models. Too bad they didn't come up with a better solution for the 3rd seat.... B)

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Could GM be bluffing on the MPG figures?

Like Ford bluffed on the F-150 tow rating... GM has just said "They'll get over 20 MPG"

[post="24009"]<{POST_SNAPBACK}>[/post]


I hope so too, but I have a feeling that it won't be as good as they say. I haven't seen what they have done to improve city mileage that much. I can see the highway mileage being in the low 20s though, 22 or 23. I just hope that I am wrong and they do get 20mpg combined.
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I really dont think these pictures do it justice, especially the Denali. The grill looks odd in the pictures, as the hole-filled grill looks a bit strange. The Yukon looks like it took a step towards the Escalade. I like it though, it can at least distinguish itself from the Tahoe...the last Tahoe/Yukon were more or less wearing different grilles. I still think the front end could use a bit more definition, but Im pretty sure these pictures dont do it much justice.
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Not bad looking, though I'm still trying to understand why the Denali and SLT have not been merged together under the SLT trim. It would make sense so that it didn't intrude on Cadillac Escalade/ESV/EXT.
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I have mixed feelings about the exterior and while the interior is pretty much the same as the Tahoe, small changes make it look a little more upscale though I don't know if that justifies the price increase. I'm not really surprised. I know the Yukon and the Tahoe will be very close in style. I really can't wait for the Escalade. That's going to be really nice from what I've read.
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First impressions: It is kind of polarizing at first, but I think that could be a good thing since it'll make people set up and take notcie and say "Wow, it's no longer a Chevy with a different grille" I like it though... The Yukon is pretty concept-like in appearance, kinda reminds me of the GMC graphite. I also see a lot of Escalade in that front end, which is a good thing for sales but not nessecerily for me since I liked the current Denali better than the current Escalade. I also see some Terra influence which is a good thing, but I wish it was sharper and more machine like as what is seen in the Terradyne (But that's just personal preference, and I'm odd in that way too) I see Envoy resemblence as well. I like it quite a bit... The wheels on the Yukon look EXCELLENT!!!! The interior looks excellent as well although I was hoping for a little bit more differentation and a little less conservative design (As in the Tahoe as well) I think the Tahoe should've received the circular tailight treatment instead though since that IS a Chevrolet trademark (One that they appear to be moving away from, kinda sorta, unfortunately) Overall, maybe not my cup-o-tea, but I think it'll do well!
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Like the Cobalt and new Impala, this design is a little too bland for me.  It's pretty good but "pretty good" doesn't haul in the conquest buyers.

[post="24081"]<{POST_SNAPBACK}>[/post]



Well, I disagree there...

GMT800-GMT900 being conservative was a given since they pull in so much volume that GM can't afford to risk, not to count, why fix what ain't broke?

I think they'll pull in conquests because the real sale is how technological and detail oriented they are.

It's almost like the C6 except better. GM took a proven winner and refined the tar out of it to make an excellent vehicle that can be universally loved.

Though I love the interior and all the mechanical improvments, there's still something about the current design that catches my eye more--sharper, crisper, more balanced lines, I think. The new one isn't ugly by any means, but there's still "something".


I agree..

I think it's the fact that the current Yukon and Denali have a timeless upscale look, with all of the streamlining and chrome where the new Yukon is more monotone and less bling-bling. Kinda like they took a new Yukon and made a "Bob Lutz bland" Denali for it.

It's not bad, but I hope it's as impressive as the current Denali (Which I thought looked cheap in pictures at first BTW) in person
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I saw this in person about 1 week ago and these pictures just dont do it justice.  Wait until you see it in person.  We saw a deep red Yukon Denali and it was just amazing.

[post="24091"]<{POST_SNAPBACK}>[/post]


Yeah, GM photography does suck bad....

The post press conference pictures of the Tahoe were 3X as good and I expect the same from the Yukon.

Oh, one thing I don't like though is the chunky ( some might say unrefined) side and tag bracket molding on the Yukon. It's okay, but could've been done better.

Something makes them look more feminine than the Tahoe...and GMC in my mind should always be more brute. Maybe they'll grow on me.


That could be purposely done too..

Since Women make the majority of major purchase decisions now, and GMC has one of the highest conquest rates in GM... Why not target a GMT900 at all of those urbanite soccer moms that would otherwise buy a Honda or a Toyota?

But I agree.. I've always viewed GMC as TOUGH trucks, like the old 50s and 60s medium duty trucks. Chevy was always the urbanite or cruiser choice to me
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