It’s been about three years since the current generation of GMC’s full-size SUV got on the stage and the company is already working on updates, which are about to come in about a year. Both the standard version and the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali are about to get a mid-cycle refresh and we expect it to be quite comprehensive. Styling updates, more standard equipment and maybe even some mechanical upgrades are what come to mind.
The GMC Yukon Denali, the luxury-oriented variant of the Yukon lineup, comes with several key upgrades compared to the regular Yukon, making it an upscale choice for SUV enthusiasts. One of the most significant differences is in the powertrain; the Yukon Denali typically features a more powerful engine, offering enhanced performance and towing capabilities. Additionally, the Denali trim boasts a premium interior with high-quality materials, advanced technology features, and superior comfort amenities, such as premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a high-end infotainment system. Exterior enhancements often include distinctive styling elements, unique wheels, and a more refined overall appearance, setting the Denali apart from the standard Yukon models. These upgrades combine to deliver a more luxurious, powerful, and sophisticated driving experience for those seeking a top-tier SUV option within the Yukon lineup.
As mentioned, the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali is expected to hit the market in the second half of 2024.
2025 GMC Yukon Denali Changes
The Denali trim, as well as the recently introduced Denali Ultimate, has a special place in GMC’s hierarchy, as the most luxurious version of every model this company offers. And, the Yukon is no exception, with all kinds of upgrades, starting from the styling that stands out with a unique chrome grille, wheels etc. This update is about to bring some changes. They will probably be subtle but the fact that the test mule wears camouflage on both ends clearly indicates they are about to be quite comprehensive. Naturally, the front fascia is the first thing that comes to mind. The grille revision, slightly reshaped headlights and the new front bumper are the first things that come to mind.
Furthermore, similar treatment is expected on the rear wheels, while we also expect to see new sets of wheels, including the available 24-inch units. Finally, the new roof-mounted antenna with the 5G capability is expected.
Interior
As for interior trim, the Yukon Denali has always been different than the rest of the Yukon range, with a completely different, more usable dashboard design. And, while standard Yukons are about to get revisions in this aspect, the Denali is likely to remain the same. Still, that doesn’t mean that the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali will lack any novelties. We expect to see new materials, new color schemes and other things that will make this cabin look even more upscale.
On the other hand, the overall layout will definitely remain the same, with a seating configuration that includes three very generous rows of seats that all accommodate adults with ease. The Yukon is also famous for its cavernous cargo area that can go all the way up to 122 cubic feet. If even that’s not enough for you, there is the Yukon XL, the long-wheelbase version with nearly 145 cubic feet of total cargo volume.
2025 GMC Yukon Denali Engines
As for the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali engines, base models will continue in the same way, with the good-old 6.2-liter V8 that puts out around 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. For those who like luxury, but also want efficiency, the big news is that the turbodiesel version will get an update, the new variant of the familiar 3.0-liter inline-six. Instead of 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, the new iteration is notably more capable and delivers 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque.
Both engines come coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Features
Of course, we also expect to see some novelties in terms of standard equipment, even though the current model is already impressive in this aspect. The current model already comes standard with goodies like a 14-speaker Bose audio system, power-folding second-row captain’s chairs, a power-sliding center console, Magnetic Ride Control, a surround-view camera system, rear pedestrian detection and a head-up display. So, we presume that additions could come from the Advanced Technology and Reserve packages, which bring various upgrades in terms of driver-assist and convenience features.
2025 GMC Yukon Denali Release Date and Price
Considering the mid-cycle refresh, the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali will probably hit the market a little bit earlier than usual, though still within the second half of 2024. As for the price, we might see a slight increase compared to the current model, which starts at around 76.000 dollars – around 17.000 compared to the base Yukon.