In its new AT4 Ultimate trim, the 2025 GMC Yukon attempts to carve out a niche as an SUV that offers a little bit of everything. With design elements that seem to play tug-of-war with each other, the Yukon straddles the line between rugged off-roader and upscale luxury vehicle. It’s a modern-day Swiss Army knife of SUVs, but does it deliver on all fronts or just bite off more than it can chew?
Let’s talk about those beefy all-terrain tires that wrap impressively large 20-inch alloy wheels. They look tough and capable, but I couldn’t help but wonder how practical they actually are for the types of adventures most families take. The striking red tow hooks jutting out from the bumper are eye-catching, especially when paired with underbody lighting that activates as you approach the vehicle—talk about a vehicle that wants to be noticed! However, this flashy design may leave you questioning whether it’s meant for serious off-road excursions or just to stand out in a crowded parking lot.
So, what’s the real identity of the Yukon AT4 Ultimate? Is it meant to tackle challenging trails, or is it vying for a spot next to the likes of the luxurious Land Rover Range Rover, which commands a jaw-dropping price point? After spending a week driving this versatile SUV, it became clear that it’s trying to be both—but doing so means it’s not fully committed to either path.
Now, let’s shift our focus to what’s going on inside this new Yukon. The 2025 model brings a lot of changes to the table, particularly when it comes to interior design and technology. While the exterior gets some subtle updates—like tweaked C-clamp headlights and redesigned grilles—the cabin is where the biggest transformation occurs. Gone is the overly complicated push/pull transmission control that used to clutter the dashboard; instead, you simply pull a sleek stalk on the steering column. Remember the good old days of simple, user-friendly controls? It’s a nice nod back to tradition that many will appreciate.
Once you step inside, the first thing that strikes you is the sheer size of the Yukon’s interior. Climbing up into the expansive cabin can feel like a workout, though the power-deploying running boards included with the Ultimate package make it easier to get in and out. It feels spacious, yes, but if you opt for the darker all-black leather upholstery (as I did), you may find it less airy than you’d hoped due to the large dashboard and center console that can make the front seating area feel somewhat confined. The seats offer just eight adjustable positions, even in the top-of-the-line Ultimate trim. While they do boast heating, cooling, and even a massage function, an increase in flexibility would’ve been appreciated.
A standout feature is the massive 16.8-inch touchscreen that steals the show at the center of the dash—available across all trim levels. While the big size aims to impress, I found myself leaning awkwardly forward to reach the far right side, which detracted from the overall user experience. Luckily, it’s equipped with Google built-in tech, providing access to Google Maps and the Google Play store. For those of you who have invested in Apple or Android devices, fear not, as both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.
Additionally, Yukon packs in some tech-savvy features that keep everyone entertained. The optional rear-seat climate control touchscreen and rear-seat entertainment screens with Google connectivity allow passengers to enjoy their favorite streaming services—perfect for family road trips!
Among its many features, the AT4 Ultimate package also comes with enhanced Bose speakers, a head-up display, and the much-lauded Super Cruise—GMC’s advanced hands-free driver assistance tech. All these “extras” don’t come cheap, though. The AT4 Ultimate’s price tag can soar nearly $20,000 above the standard AT4 version, and my test vehicle came in at an eye-watering $102,000. Sticker shock is an understatement!
So, is the 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 Ultimate a jack-of-all-trades, or is it an SUV that spreads itself too thin? It tries to be everything to everyone, and while it does offer a vast array of desirable features, you might leave feeling a bit torn. If you’re someone who values versatility and the latest technology, this SUV has a solid roster of offerings. But if you’re searching for a singular focus—be it luxury or serious off-roading—there’s a chance you might stay on the hunt just a bit longer for a vehicle that fits your needs perfectly.The 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 Ultimate offers an intriguing blend of rugged utility and sophisticated comfort, making it one of the standout options in the competitive full-size SUV market. Unlike its luxury rivals such as the Range Rover, Infiniti QX80, and BMW X7, the Yukon’s foundation is more akin to that of a rugged pickup truck. Its separate ladder frame, paired with an independent front suspension and solid rear axle, gives it a sturdy structure that’s ready for serious adventures. Most versions come with coil springs, enhanced by magnetic dampers in the AT4 to ensure a smooth ride even on bumpy terrain. If you’re looking for an even cushier experience, moving up to the Ultimate version adds air springs to the mix, which you can snag for a reasonable upgrade of around $2,060 if you opt for the Premium Trailering Package.
One of the noticeable advantages of the Yukon AT4 is how well it absorbs the rough stuff. With tall tire sidewalls and the comfort-focused air suspension, you’ll feel like you’re gliding over potholes instead of battling them. While you won’t catch this beast cornering like a sporty coupe, it certainly provides a serene driving experience. A tap into Sport mode can stiffen things up, but it strays a bit far from the comfort you’re likely expecting, making you wonder how rattling those available 24-inch Denali wheels might feel on rough roads. During my time testing the Yukon, a significant snowstorm limited some off-road capabilities, but the SUV managed to plow through monstrous snowbanks effortlessly, reassuring for those snowy weekend getaways to your cabin.
In terms of dimensions, the standard Yukon’s length stretches to an impressive 210.1 inches, and it measures a substantial 81.0 inches in width. If you need more room, the Yukon XL offers an additional 15.1 inches, translating into increased legroom and a cavernous cargo area. Of course, such a sizeable vehicle poses challenges off the beaten path. Yet, it handled snowy conditions with ease and was designed to raise its air suspension by about two inches for added clearance if needed — although I didn’t find the weather requiring it.
Under the hood, the Yukon offers several powerful engine options. The standard Elevation and AT4 models come equipped with a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V8, a reliable workhorse straight from GM’s playbook. Performance-wise, it might not set your heart racing — particularly considering the Yukon’s weight, which starts at over 5,600 pounds. Interestingly, this engine boasts the highest towing capacity of the lineup, managing an impressive 8,400 pounds. However, if you’re after a more potent option, the 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 does the trick, delivering smooth power and ample torque that’ll keep you confident on long road trips.
But let’s be real, fuel economy is not the Yukon’s strong suit, with V8 figures hovering around an estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. The diesel option may save you at the pump, but it comes at a steep price increase of over $9,000 in the AT4 and Denali trims. Meanwhile, all models are served by a 10-speed automatic transmission designed for smooth performance; however, it can occasionally behave a little sluggishly in those pesky stop-and-go city situations.
As for visibility, it’s one of the challenges that comes with driving a big SUV like the Yukon. Those towering roof pillars and high dashboard can make navigating city streets a bit daunting but are less of an issue at highway speeds, especially when you activate the impressive Super Cruise feature — GMC’s semi-automated driving system. A few gentle beeps indicate activation, and this system does a fantastic job keeping the vehicle centered in its lane, even with rugged tires that tend to wander.
Now, let’s turn our focus to the Yukon Denali Ultimate, which has seen a lot of love and attention this year. Despite its eye-watering starting price of around $95,000 for the diesel and nearly $97,000 for the V8, it’s a curious proposition. It walks a fine line with its premium features and, frankly, the amount of hard plastic on the door panels isn’t what you’d expect at this price point.
If you’re looking to maximize your Yukon experience, the Denali trim may be the way to go. At a starting price of $68,895, it offers a better-balanced ride with more luxury touches and the option to add essential packages for a total of $88,125 — a price that might seem steep but will offer a more focused SUV for your money. After all, if towing and rugged off-road abilities are your priority, you might still find better value in the Chevy Tahoe, whereas the Cadillac Escalade dazzles those looking for a plush, luxury ride.
In a nutshell, the 2025 GMC Yukon models cater to a wide range of needs, from those seeking adventure to those looking for a family vehicle that’s got some serious towing power. If you can navigate the options and pricing, you’ll be able to find a Yukon that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle — be it for weekday commutes, weekend escapades, or anything in between. The key is figuring out which features matter most to you and what you’re willing to invest in making those trips comfortable and enjoyable.
Image Source: Jonathan Weiss / Shutterstock
