8-speed Auto Boosts EPA Grades for 2015 GMC Yukon Denali Models

2015 gmc yukon ・ Photo by General Motors

Thanks to a new eight-speed automatic transmission that becomes standard for the new model year, the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali will both take a major leap forward in highway fuel economy, finally breaking the 20-mpg milestone. In fact, all four configurations of the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali see at least some improvements in all facets of EPA testing. Here are the latest fuel-efficiency results from the agency (with gains over 2014 in parentheses):

• 2015 GMC Yukon Denali with RWD—15 mpg city/22 mpg highway/17 mpg combined (+1/+4/+1)
• 2015 GMC Yukon Denali with 4WD—15 mpg city/21 mpg highway/17 mpg combined (+2/+3/+2)
• 2015 GMC Yukon XL Denali with RWD—15 mpg city/22 mpg highway/17 mpg combined (+1/+4/+1)
• 2015 GMC Yukon XL Denali with 4WD—14 mpg city/20 mpg highway/16 mpg combined (+1/+2/+2)

Owners also will still enjoy the same tow ratings as provided by the six-speed transmission, with the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali offering an 8,400-lb. maximum and the Yukon XL Denali rated at 8,100 lbs. Further, performance with those kinds of loads actually improves, since an also-new torque converter has been deployed for smoother take offs. And don't worry, power outputs from the standard 6.2-liter V8 remain unchanged, too, allowing drivers of the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali trucks to benefit from 420 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque.

Of course, as befits the range toppers for the 2015 Yukon Denali roster, the SUVs will welcome new GM technologies such as a foot-operated power liftgate, wireless device charging and an updated GMC IntelliLink system, complemented by OnStar's 4G LTE connectivity service with a wi-fi hotspot.

At Autobytel.com dealerships now, the 2015 GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali are priced from $64,965 and $67,665, including destination charges.