GMC adds luxury-spec Denali to Yukon Hybrid line

By Ralph Hanson

Ralph Hanson

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2009 gmc yukon denali hybrid 006

The hybrid SUV is estimated to return fuel-economy of 21mpg (11.2L/100km) in the city – comparable with Toyota’s Camry V6

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Along with exceptional fuel economy, the Yukon Hybrid and Yukon Denali Hybrid deliver full-size capability – up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) of towing capacity (2WD) and standard eight-passenger seating capacity.

Vehicles like the Yukon Denali are ideal for a hybrid application because of the greater fuel savings compared to smaller petrol-electric models like the Prius and Insight. This will be a crucial factor in showrooms, as fuel economy is the most important consideration for roughly 80% of Yukon Denali buyers.

Power comes from GM’s familiar Two-Mode hybrid system, which combines two lightweight electric motors packaged in the transmission, as well as regenerative brakes and electrically-powered steering and air-conditioning systems. The Yukon Denali Hybrid also comes with GM’s MagnaRide suspension system StabiliTrak electronic stability control.

Most of the grunt, however, comes from a 6.0L Vortec V8 with fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and late intake valve closing and variable valve timing technologies. It produces 332hp (248kW) and 367lb-ft (498Nm) of torque.

To differentiate the hybrid model from the regular Yukon Denali, designers have added newly designed 22in flangeless chrome wheels and discreet badging.

Inside, designers filled the cabin with a number of handy amenities including a 12-way power, heated/cooled leather front seats, and an optional sunroof, DVD entertainment system, and blind zone alert side-mirrors. Other goodies include OnStar connectivity with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, a reversing camera, a Bose stereo system, and three years of real-time XM NavTraffic.

Pricing starts at $59,185 for the 2WD model and goes up to $62,030 for the 4WD model, as well as $950 in destination charges.