(L to R) 2021 GMC Yukon Denali and AT4
While the 5th generation 2021 GMC Yukon just started production after being delayed due to COVID-19, a recent report suggests new options will be available as production is starting to ramp up.
A report by GMAuthority.com states the 2021 GMC Yukon will enter “phase 2” of production meaning it will be offered with new power sliding center console, air ride adaptive suspension and active response 4wd system. There will also be more build configurations with the XL version expected to start hitting dealer lots.
Initially, the phase 1 rollout was saw only the SLT and Denali trims being built with just two build configurations for the SLT and Denali.
2021 GMC Yukon Denali
With the rollout of phase 2, the SLE and AT4 trims will be added to the mix with the Denali adding another build configuration aka trim with options. Keep in mind, like we reported with the 2020 Chevy Tahoe, a diesel engine is not available with the off-road focused AT4 model.
The new full-size SUVs are expected to start production in September, 2020 at the Arlington, Texas assembly plant. This likely means, they will be on dealer lots October or November. Also, the 3.0L diesel engine is expected to begin being added to the mix in November with expected arrive on dealer lots after the start of the new year.
While the rollout of the 2021 GMC Yukon has been hampered by the pandemic, these new SUVs should bring in a considerable amount of profit and excitement for families looking to avoid air travel and hit the road instead.
The GMC Yukon has a completely new look and rides on a new platform with a host of changes like independent rear suspension, new interior and a new electrified platform meaning the computer processor can handle more data faster.
2021 GMC Yukon AT4 interior.
From a real-world perspective, this means there won’t be any lag with regards to adaptive cruise control when passing someone on the interstate. Currently, with adaptive cruise control engaged, as you switch lanes, the system takes several seconds to recognize that there is no vehicle in front of you and then proceeds to speed up to your set speed. This lag, we were told by GM engineers, was due to the slower computer processor which has now been addressed with the new digital platform.
It is also larger and has more cargo room than ever before. Look for our first-drive review coming soon.
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