When the Onyx Black GMC Yukon XL arrived in the Times Free Press parking lot a few days ago, some of the smarties in the newsroom suggested I festoon it with little American flags, pop in some earbuds and pretend to be leading a presidential motorcade.
Um, no.
FAST FACTS
Model: 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4WDExterior color: Onyx BlackInterior color: Jet BlackEngine: 6.2-liter, V-8Horsepower: 420Transmission: 10-speed automaticFuel economy: 20 mpg highway, 14 mpg cityLocal dealer: Integrity Buick GMC, 6025 International DrivePrice (as tested): $81,940
Must agree, though: The big, black SUV certainly has presence. From its massive chrome grille to its squared-off rump the Yukon XL is unquestionably king of the road. And with gas prices sliding, even its 14-mpg city fuel rating has lost some of its sting.
Of course, you'll need a deep bank account to afford this beauty. Our tester, provided by GM for a one-week test drive, rings up at $81,940. But don't forget, this behemoth - the stretched version of the Yukon SUV - is brimming with the latest technology and creature comforts. GM's V-8s also have legendary durability, so this expense could easily be pro-rated over a decade, or so.
Integrity Buick GMC, at 6025 International Drive, had nine 2019 Yukon XLs in digital inventory late this week including several on the ground matching our test vehicle in color and specs.
WHAT IS IT? A seven-passenger, three-row full-size SUV with the Denali luxury package and a powerful 6.2-liter, V-8 Ecotec3 engine.
WHAT WE LOVED: The power-retractable running boards, the second row captain's chairs (for keeping the kiddos apart), the shiny GMC grille, plush interior and abundant storage.
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT: The Yukon XL is so heavy that operating the brakes takes some muscle, especially if you are used to driving a small sedan. The turning radius is about an acre (kidding, it's 21 feet), and finding a parking place at the mall can be a challenging. The steering column shifter is a bit truckish for a $80K luxury liner.
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HOW BIG IS IT, REALLY? OK, so, the Yukon XL is 224 inches long, which is about 18 feet. It's 74 inches tall, or about the size of an NBA point guard. The XL tips the scales at more than 5,600 pounds, or almost three tons.
WORTHWHILE OPTIONS: Going with the Denali package will set you back $8,080 and includes such upgrades as the power running boards, an upgraded sunroof and sound system and adaptive cruise control. For $1,000 more you get the "Black Edition" treatment which includes gloss-black wheels, chrome mirror caps, chrome exhaust tips and the special Onyx Black body paint.
COMPETITION: Other full-size SUVs in this class include the Lexus GX, Ford Expedition and Land Rover Discovery.
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS: It takes a few days to get used to the GMC Yukon XLs sheer size, but once you start to feel the corners it becomes easier. The 10-speed transmission is smooth and boosts fuel economy some, and the 420 horsepower engine has pulling power to spare. Towing capacity is rated at 8,500 pounds.
BOTTOM LINE: If you need to transport a family - and a boat or trailer - up our mountain roads, then you truly need a full-size SUV like the GMC Yukon XL. Some drivers, with more modest hauling needs, may simply like the safe feeling they get driving a vehicle the size of a train car. Should gasoline spike back to near $4 a gallon, though, be prepared for palpable pain at the pump.
Contact Mark Kennedy at mkennedy@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6645. Follow him on Twitter @TFPCOLUMNIST. Subscribe to his Facebook updates at www.facebook.com/mkennedycolumnist.
With a four-wheel-drive option, the 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali is a good choice for the Chattanooga-area's mountain roads. (Contributed photo by GMC)