2013 GMC Yukon: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2013 GMC Yukon is a light-update year rather than a redesign. Its main functional change is grade braking in normal drive mode on non-Hybrid models, which helps hold speed on downhill grades.
About the 2013 GMC Yukon
3rd gen (2007-2014), late-cycle year before the final 2014 run and the all-new 2015 redesign
The 2013 Yukon is GMC’s traditional full-size SUV: a truck-based three-row vehicle built for towing, hauling people, and carrying bulky cargo while feeling more upscale than a basic work SUV. GMC markets it around comfort, quality, and capability, with Yukon XL adding extra cargo room, Denali adding a more luxurious look and feel, and the Hybrid models aiming to keep the same full-size mission with better city fuel economy. For most shoppers, the Yukon’s appeal is simple: real V8 strength, usable towing ability, and family-sized space.
The 2013 lineup stretches from the work-focused Commercial and straightforward SLE to the leather-trimmed SLT and more luxurious Denali. Denali stands out with a 6.2-liter V8, heated and cooled front seats, navigation, and a Bose sound system, while the Hybrid and Denali Hybrid use a 6.0-liter hybrid V8.
What changed, by category
2013 GMC Yukon specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Flex Fuel, 5.3 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 5.3 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 6.2 Liter / V8, Hybrid, 6.0 Liter | V8, Hybrid, 6.0 Liter | V8, Flex Fuel, 5.3 Liter / V8, 6.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive / Auto, 6-Spd HD Overdrive / Auto, 6-Spd HD w/OD | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive / Auto, 6-Spd HD w/OD | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive / Auto, 4-Spd Overdrive | Auto, 4-Spd Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive / Auto, 6-Spd HD w/OD |
| Drivetrain | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD | AWD / 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Flexible Fuel / Gas | Flexible Fuel / Gas | Flexible Fuel / Hybrid | Hybrid | Flexible Fuel / Gas |
| MPG City | 10–15 mpg | 10–15 mpg | 14–20 mpg | 20 mpg | 10–15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 16–21 mpg | 16–21 mpg | 18–23 mpg | 23 mpg | 16–21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 320–352 hp | 320–352 hp | 403 hp | 320–352 hp | |
| Torque | 335–382 lb-ft | 335–382 lb-ft | 367–417 lb-ft | 367 lb-ft | 335–382 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 8000–9400 lb | 8000–9400 lb | 5700–8100 lb | 5900 lb | 8000–9400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 108.9–137.4 cu-ft | 108.9–137.4 cu-ft | 108.9–137.4 cu-ft | 108.9 cu-ft | 108.9–137.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 25.6–34.9 in | 25.6–34.9 in | 25.6–34.9 in | 25.6 in | 25.6–34.9 in |
| Seats | 9 | 8 | 7–8 | 8 | 9 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Hill Start Assist | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||||
| Power Side Steps | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Tow Hooks | |||||
| Bluetooth | |||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | |||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| USB Ports | |||||
| Video Input | |||||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Cooled Seats | |||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||||
| Memory Pedals | |||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Third Row Seat | |||||
| Tilt Wheel | |||||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2013 GMC Yukon?
The biggest functional change is grade braking in normal drive mode on non-Hybrid models. It helps the Yukon hold its speed when traveling downhill.
Did the 2013 GMC Yukon trim lineup change?
Yes. The work-focused Commercial trim joined the Yukon lineup for 2013, while the familiar SLE, SLT, Denali, Hybrid, and Denali Hybrid versions continued.
Did the 2013 GMC Yukon Hybrid receive the new grade-braking feature?
No. The normal-drive grade-braking update applied to non-Hybrid Yukons. The Hybrid and Denali Hybrid received no meaningful mechanical or equipment update for 2013.
Was the 2013 GMC Yukon redesigned?
No. The 2013 Yukon remained part of the third generation introduced for 2007, with no major changes to its body, chassis, styling, safety equipment, or infotainment.
Is the 2013 GMC Yukon a major upgrade over the 2012 model?
No. The 2013 Yukon is mostly a carryover from 2012. Its main functional improvement is downhill grade braking on non-Hybrid models, so vehicle condition, maintenance history, and trim equipment will usually matter more when comparing used examples.