2008 | 2009

For release: Aug. 1, 2007

2008 GMC YUKON DENALI AND YUKON XL DENALI

New For 2008

Model Lineup

Engine

Transmission

Vortec 6.2L V-8

6-spd auto (Hydra-Matic 6L80)

Yukon Denali

s

s

Yukon XL Denali

s

s

Key

Standard

s

2008 GMC YUKON DENALI AND YUKON XL DENALI CONTINUE TO LEAD SEGMENT IN STYLE, REFINEMENT

In a marketplace crowded with luxury and near-luxury SUVs all clamoring for attention, the GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali stand out as icons. They are also the flagships of GMC’s family of professional grade vehicles, offering a unique blend of style, performance and refinement.

Style and refinement comes from a distinctive exterior design, including the signature honeycomb chrome grille. Yukon Denali models also feature enhanced exterior bright work, unique headlamps, taillamps and rear fascia treatment, as well as unique 18-inch standard polished wheels. Twenty-inch factory-installed chrome wheels are available. Denali-exclusive headlamps and taillamps further the jeweled look of these unique 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.

The performance is derived from a 6.2L all-aluminum small-block V-8 engine with variable valve timing and a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission. The 6.2L engine is rated at 380 horsepower (283 kW)* – the most horsepower in its class.

The Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali were redesigned for the ’07 model year, so changes for 2008 are minor. Two new exterior colors are added to the palette – Red Jewel Tintcoat and Dark Slate Metallic – and later in the model year, 2WD models will be offered.

Standard features include power liftgate, power release second-row fold-and-tumble bucket seat, head curtain side air bags, power-adjustable pedals, heated windshield washer system, electrochromic (auto-dimming) inside mirror, RainSense automatic windshield wipers, remote start system and Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist. From an entertainment standpoint, the vehicles come standard with an AM/FM MP3-capable radio with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, Bose 10-speaker Centerpoint Surround Sound audio system and XM Satellite Radio.

The Denali models also offers several helpful and convenient options, including a navigation radio system, rearview camera system, power sunroof, power-retractable assist steps and a rear-seat, DVD-based entertainment system.

Denali refinement and comfort

The interiors of the Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali offer style and luxury, including standard Nuance leather-covered seating with heated first- and second-row captain’s 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. A heated steering wheel is available.

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 were carefully selected to provide a premium feel as well as durability. Flush-mounted HVAC controls and radios, with almost imperceptible gaps, convey precision and integration, as do dampened doors for the center console storage and cupholders. Chrome accents are used on instrument surrounds, vents and other trim. Automatic climate control is standard.

Craftsmanship also is revealed in unexpected areas, such as distinctive sill plates that greet occupants when the doors are opened and the lack of exposed fasteners on the seats or seat tracks. The seats have “close-outs” that surround the seat bottoms and seat tracks, creating a more finished appearance. Seat bottoms and hardware are covered, too, when folded.

As with other Yukon and Yukon XL models, the Denali models offer GM’s 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 are standard on Denali and feature release buttons accessible by the driver on the overhead console or on the interior C-pillar to provide an easy, immediate release of the seat and an access path to the third-row seat or cargo area.

Driving experience

The Denali models are built on GM’s full-size SUV platform, which incorporates features such as a fully boxed frame, coil-over-shock front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering. Yukon Denali rides on a 116-inch (2,946 mm) wheelbase, with an overall length of 202 inches (5,130 mm). Yukon XL Denali has exterior dimensions similar to the regular-length model, but is about 14 inches longer in wheelbase and 20 inches longer in overall length. The frames on both models support wide front and rear tracks that enhance stability and driving confidence through a more secure road feel and a lower center of gravity.

The front suspension consists of a coil-over-shock design that delivers linear, solid and unwavering ride and handling characteristics on all road surfaces. Steering comes from 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 large, firm brackets that also contribute to the vehicles’ precise driving manners.

Large, four-wheel-disc brakes and an ABS system ensure braking performance at the top of the segment. Larger vented front and rear brake rotors, stiff dual-piston calipers and long-life brake pads contribute to enhanced pedal feel, reduced brake noise, predictable, linear brake response and shorter braking distances. A Bosch 8.0 four-channel ABS system is standard. The ABS system works with the standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system; it 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 help prevent such events.

Enhanced driving control and ride smoothness are offered with the standard Autoride real-time damping system, which uses electronically controlled shock absorbers to make nearly instant damping adjustments. The system “reads” the road and anticipates the best damping rates.

Powertrain

The 6.2L engine of the Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali uses advanced technologies and lightweight materials, including variable valve timing and an aluminum cylinder block, which helps the vehicles deliver outstanding, more efficient performance. The 6.2L engine is rated at contributing to the vehicle’s uncompromising performance. It produces 380 horsepower (283 kW) and 417 lb.-ft. of torque (565 Nm).*

A six-speed Hydra-Matic 6L80 RWD electronically controlled automatic transmission backs 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

The ’08 Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali are designed to be among the industry's safest and most secure vehicles, with a 360-degree perimeter safety system of occupant protection and crash avoidance technologies. This comprehensive system enabled the short-wheelbase Yukon Denali to achieve 5-star frontal crash ratings for the driver and right front passenger in government crash tests. The 5-star rating is the highest safety rating given by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Standard features include head curtain side air bags for all seating rows and front-seat safety belt pretensioners that are linked to the vehicle's sensing system to provide segment-exclusive deployment in rear-end crashes, in addition to frontal crashes. These features are integrated into a stronger vehicle structure that is also designed for improved compatibility with other vehicles.

The head curtain side air bags include design features that provide increased rollover protection and occupant containment. Sensors located at the front of the vehicle, in the side doors, and within the occupant compartment provide increased and more immediate crash detection. The vehicle's sensing system provides segment-exclusive capability to deploy front seat safety belt pretensioners during certain rear-end collisions, enhancing the belt system's ability to hold the occupants firmly in place.

The head curtain side air bag system incorporates one of the segment's first rollover indication sensors, which is located on the vehicle's center tunnel in the occupant compartment. The sensor monitors the vehicle's accelerations and roll rate. If these signals indicate an impending rollover, the head curtain side air bags deploy to provide an extra measure of occupant protection and containment. The side air bags stay inflated longer than airbags developed only for side impacts because rollover incidents can last longer. The deployment duration and other design features of the head curtain air bags combine to provide increased occupant protection and the ability to help keep occupants inside the vehicle.

Crash avoidance is bolstered through enhanced design and driver control dynamics, such as wider front and rear tracks, as well as more responsive suspensions - including a new coil-over-shock front suspension design and new rack-and-pinion steering. The vehicles are built on a stronger and stiffer, fully boxed frame that contributes to enhanced crash energy management.  The front frame section has been designed to optimize crush progression resulting in improved energy absorption efficiency.  The improved crush performance, enabled by hydroformed frame rails and efficient chassis component packaging, also comprehends design provisions for improved vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility in the event of a frontal impact with a smaller vehicle.

Here’s a rundown of Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali’s safety features:

All models come standard with the OnStar system (includes one-year Directions & Connections plan). 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).

*SAE certified.

# # #

Contact:
Randy Fox
GMC Communications
Phone: 313-667-4128
E-mail: randal.l.fox@gm.com

Kelly Wysocki
Product Development Communications
Phone: 586-492-0122
E-mail: kelly.wysocki@gm.com

Tony LaRocca
GM of Canada Communications
Phone: 905-644-1804
E-mail: tony.larocca@gm.com

Antonio Sanchez Jimenez
Gerente de Relaciones Públicas y Comunicación
General Motors de Mexico
Office: 011-5255-5901-3042
E-mail: angelantonio.sanchezjimenez@gm.com

SPECIFICATIONS

(See GM of Canada section for Canadian product information)

Overview

Models:

GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali

Body style / driveline:

4-door sport utility, front-engine, AWD & 2WD (interim)

Construction:

body on frame

EPA vehicle class:

full-size sport utility

Manufacturing location:

Janesville, Wis.

Key competitors:

Lincoln Navigator, Lincoln Navigator L, Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada, Ford Expedition, Ford Expedition EL

Engine

Type:

6.2L V-8 (L92)

Displacement (cu in / cc):

376 / 6162

Bore & stroke (in / mm):

4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92

Block material:

cast aluminum

Cylinder head material:

cast aluminum

Valvetrain:

overhead valve, 2 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing

Ignition system:

coil-near-plug ignition, iridium electrode tip/ iridium core spark plugs, low resistance spark plug wires

Fuel delivery:

sequential fuel injection

Compression ratio:

10.5:1

Horsepower (hp/ kW @ rpm):

380 / 283 @ 5500*

Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):

417 / 565 @ 4400*

Fuel:

premium recommended, but not required

Maximum engine speed (rpm):

6000

Emissions controls:

close-coupled catalytic converter, Quick Sync 58X ignition, returnless fuel rail, fast-response O² sensor

EPA estimated fuel economy
(city / hwy):

12 / 18

Transmission

Type:

Hydra-Matic 6L80, RWD 6-speed automatic

Gear ratios (:1):

First:

4.027

Second:

2.364

Third:

1.522

Fourth:

1.152

Fifth:

0.852

Sixth:

0.667

Final drive ratio:

3.42

Chassis/Suspension

Front:

independent, coil over shock

Rear:

five-link with coil springs

Traction assist:

all-speed traction control

Steering type:

power-assisted rack-and-pinion

Steering ratio:

17.75:1

Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:

3

Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m):

43 / 13.1

Brakes

Type:

4-wheel disc, 4-wheel ABS

Rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm):

front: 13 x 1.18 / 330.2 x 30
rear: 13.5 x .787 / 345 x 20

Wheels/Tires

Wheel size and type:

18 x 8-inch polished aluminum (std.)

20 x 8.5-inch chrome aluminum (opt.)

Tires:

P265/60R18, all-season blackwall (std.)

P275/55R20, all-season blackwall (opt.)

Dimensions

Exterior

Yukon Denali

Yukon XL Denali

Wheelbase (in / mm):

116 / 2946

130 / 3302

Overall length (in / mm):

202.0 / 5129.9

222.4 / 5648

Overall width (in / mm):

79.0 / 2007.0

79.1 / 2010.4

Overall height (in / mm):

75.9 / 1927.5

77.2 / 1960.8

Track (in / mm):

front: 68.2 / 1731.8

rear: 67.0 / 1701.8

front: 68.2 / 1731.8

rear: 67.0 / 1701

Minimum ground clearance (in / mm):^

8.9 / 226

9.3 / 236.1

Step-in height (in / mm): ^

20.2 / 514.4

21.9 / 557.1

Ground to top of load floor (in / mm): ^

31.5 / 801.1

32.3 / 820.3

Approach angle (deg): ^

16.02

15.9

Departure angle (deg): ^

21.65

21.95

Curb weight (lb / kg): ^

5827 / 2643

6150 / 2789

Weight distribution (% front / rear) ^

52 / 48

51 / 49

^ 2WD dimensions TBD.

Interior

First Row

Second Row

Third Row

Seating capacity (9 total):

2 / 3

2 / 3

2 / 3

Headroom (in / mm):

Denali : 41.1 / 1043
Denali XL: 41.1 / 1043

Denali : 39.2 / 995
Denali XL: 38.5 / 978

Denali : 37.9 / 963
Denali XL: 38.1 / 967

Legroom (in / mm):

Denali : 41.3 / 1049
Denali XL: 41.3 / 1049

Denali n: 39.0 / 991
Denali XL: 39.5 / 1002

Denali : 25.6 / 649
Denali XL: 34.9 / 887

Shoulder room (in / mm):

Denali : 65.3 / 1658
Denali XL: 65.3 / 1658

Denali : 65.2 / 1657
Denali XL: 65.2 / 1657

Denali : 61.7 / 1567
Denali XL: 64.7 / 1643

Hip room (in / mm):

Denali : 64.4 / 1635
Denali XL: 64.4 / 1635

Denali : 60.6 / 1539
Denali XL: 61.8 / 1570

Denali : 49.1 / 1246
Yukon XL: 49.4 / 1254

Cargo volume (cu ft / L):

Behind 1 st row, 2 nd row folded no third row

Denali : 108.9 / 3084
Denali XL: 137.4 / 3891

Behind 2 nd row no third row

Yukon : 60.3 / 1708
Yukon XL: 90 / 2548

Behind 3 rd row

Yukon : 16.9 / 478
Yukon XL: 45.8 / 1297

Capacities

Yukon Denali

Yukon XLDenali

EPA interior volume (cu ft / L):

108.9 / 3084

137.4 / 3891.1

GVWR: (lb / kg):^

7100 / 3221

7400 / 3966

Payload, base (lb / kg): ^

1423 / 645 (with third-row seat)

1446 / 656 (with third-row seat)

Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg): ^

7900 / 3583

7900 / 3583

Fuel tank (gal / L):

26 / 98

31.5 / 119.2

Engine oil (qt / L):

6 / 5.7

6 / 5.7

Cooling system (qt / L):

TBD

TBD

^ 2WD dimensions TBD.

*SAE certified. 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.

Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.

Top