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This latest nine-passenger SUV finds itself stocked with enhanced safety
features and ample room for an entire preschool class, but the 2008 GMC Yukon XL
2WD can easily get bogged down by extra heavy loads and doesn't provide as much
accessible cargo space as the maker purports. With four different engine choices
available, buyers should not have a problem finding exactly what they need;
however, even the 320 horsepower Vortec 5.3L V8 with Flex Fuel doesn't impress
with an estimated MPG of 14 city and 20 highway.
Dual-stage front airbags with a passenger sensing system are implemented in the
new GMC Yukon XL. The system can discern the general body mass, height, and
seating angle of the front passengers to better determine the force at which the
airbags should be deployed. This model year also brings the addition of standard
head-curtain side airbags that provide protection for all three rows of
passengers. Also, the tire pressure monitoring system gives drivers extra
protection from getting a flat or simply driving the full-size SUV with
unbalanced tires. In addition, GMC now employs a free one-year subscription to
OnStar in every Yukon XL 2WD. With the OnStar service, owners will get both
additional safety features and informational assistance at the touch of a
button. There are also indicators that will contact the service independently in
the event of a collision so that help can be sent right away.
While the 2008 Yukon XL does supply enough space for most families, the third
row seating does not completely fold down, unlike that in the Lincoln Navigator.
Unfortunately, GMC may have made a mistake by not allowing the seating to become
entirely flush with the floor of the SUV because owners are now limited with
what they can haul inside of the Yukon. Nevertheless, the automatic climate
control, MP3 capable stereo, and 3-month trial subscription to XM Satellite
Radio are more than what most full-size SUVs on the market are offering. What's
more, since the Yukon 2WD can tow up to 9,700-lbs, it might not matter to buyers
that the interior cargo space is compromised.
The 2008 GMC Yukon XL 2WD's four trim levels give buyers more customization than
most of the comparables on the market, but the MSRP of $39,815 might be
off-putting to families on a budget. GMC would also benefit from working on the
fuel economy for the next model year to market to a wider audience. However, for
those that are in search of an SUV that can fit the kids, the luggage and tow a
boat at the same time, the Yukon XL 2WD could be a good match.
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