We’ve been privileged these past few years to drive a many of GM’s large SUVs, both on the Chevrolet and GMC side of the house. Most recently, we stepped in to the GMC Yukon XL with the new for 2019 Graphite Performance Edition. After a week racking up some extra miles, we think this is the best way to build your Yukon XL.
The best way to get to know a vehicle is to spend some quality time behind the wheel, and we had that opportunity in more with a long trip planned during our week with the Yukon XL. The Graphite Performance Edition adds a few unique styling upgrades, but it also includes several beneficial options that are must-haves for the utmost comfort. Our favorites in this package is the inclusion of Magnetic Ride Control, the 6.2L V8, and the 10-speed automatic. We, of course, sampled this pairing before in the Suburban RST, but our road trip really allowed us to spend lots of time and miles in the car to appreciate just how compliant and well rounded the package is.
Over 700 miles and four states we quickly came to realize that the 6.2L and the 10-speed automatic is the best combination in this SUV. It provided excellent power for passing on the highway, perfect comfort, and 20 miles per gallon over our entire weekend. Though the interior and exterior are starting to lag behind some of GMC’s newer models, the complete black-out of our Graphite Performance Edition really enhanced the look. The optional package included the grille, wheels, and window surrounds all trimmed out in black. It was a menacing look, and was often mistaken for a police interceptor. Inside was completely black as well, and it felt smaller than the spaciousness within due to that fact. It was still very comfortable, and provided plenty of space for a weekend to the beach with all chairs and coolers in tow.
With this generation Yukon on its way out, we appreciated our time with the Graphite Performance Edition and got even more acquainted with the vehicle that has been a staple in this segment for more than two decades. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular even to this day, and we look forward to the new generation. But if you don’t like waiting, this is the best value for money to get the best that the platform currently has to offer.
-Scott Villeneuve
| 2019 GMC Yukon XL |
$60,400 |
| Graphite Edition | $3,070 |
| Graphite Performance Edition | $5,995 |
| Destination Charges | $1,295 |
| As Tested MSRP | $67,510 |
Related:
Command: 2019 Chevrolet Suburban RST
Menacing: 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe Midnight Edition
Luxury Limo: 2015 Cadillac Escalade
Categories: Driven, GMC, Scott Villeneuve
Limited Slip Blog 
I have driven a GMC Denali XL for at least 25 years. Why is it such a big car has the little mini screen? Tesla have a nice big touch screen why wouldn’t a luxury traffic keep up with the times it seems to me like they’re 5 to 7 years behind electronically.
You’re right…the new Escalade will make up some ground, though.