“I do NOT like the placement of buttons to choose 2 wheel or 4 wheel drive. They are very hard to see!”
2021 GMC Yukon: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 GMC Yukon is a full redesign, led by a new platform with independent rear suspension. It is roomier, more modern inside, and substantially different from the 2020 Yukon.
About the 2021 GMC Yukon
5th generation, first year of a full redesign.
GMC positions the Yukon as a large family SUV that blends serious towing and hauling ability with a more premium cabin than most mainstream full-size rivals. The brand’s own messaging leans on “first-class” comfort, big three-row space, and truck-like capability, then layers in distinct personalities through the rugged AT4 and luxury-focused Denali. For most shoppers, the Yukon is the choice when they want real full-size room and towing strength without giving up comfort, tech or upscale presentation.
The 2021 Yukon ranges from the utility-focused SLE to the comfort-oriented SLT, rugged AT4, and luxury-focused Denali. AT4 combines standard four-wheel drive and skid protection with leather seating, while Denali has its own dashboard, richer materials, a head-up display, and a 14-speaker Bose audio system.
What changed, by category
Structural
A new chassis, longer wheelbase, and independent rear suspension replace the previous solid rear axle. The redesign creates much more third-row and cargo space while improving ride and interior packaging.
Powertrain
A 10-speed automatic transmission replaces the previous transmissions across the lineup. A 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine joins the SLE, SLT, and Denali.
Styling
The exterior is completely redesigned with longer proportions. The new AT4 trim adds a rugged front end and skid protection, while Denali receives a more distinctive grille and an exclusive interior design. The previous SLT Standard Edition leaves the lineup.
Safety
The standard safety package expands to include automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. On SLE, automatic emergency braking and automatic high beams become standard.
Tech
A 10.2-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto arrive across the range. Upper trims add equipment such as built-in navigation, surround-view cameras, upgraded Bose audio, and a head-up display.
2021 GMC Yukon specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, 6.2 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel |
| MPG City | 15–16 mpg | 15–21 mpg | 15–21 mpg | 14–21 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19–20 mpg | 19–27 mpg | 19–27 mpg | 19–27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 277–355 hp | 277–355 hp | 277–420 hp |
| Torque | 383 lb-ft | 383–460 lb-ft | 383–460 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6000–7700 lb | 6000–7700 lb | 6000–7700 lb | 7500–7900 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 144.7 cu-ft | 144.7 cu-ft | 144.7 cu-ft | 144.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.9–36.7 in | 34.9–36.7 in | 34.9–36.7 in | 34.9–36.7 in |
| Seats | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| 360 Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 GMC Yukon a full redesign?
Yes. The 2021 GMC Yukon begins the model’s fifth generation with a new platform, independent rear suspension, a longer wheelbase, more passenger and cargo room, and a substantially updated cabin.
How is the 2021 Yukon roomier than the 2020 model?
The 2021 Yukon has much more third-row and cargo space. Its longer wheelbase and independent rear suspension use space more efficiently than the previous solid-rear-axle design.
What powertrain changes did the 2021 GMC Yukon receive?
Every 2021 Yukon uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine joins the SLE, SLT, and Denali. The diesel does not join the AT4 for this model year.
What is new about the 2021 Yukon AT4?
The AT4 is a new Yukon trim for 2021. It has standard four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, front skid protection, a trail-friendly front-end design, Magnetic Ride Control, and a leather-trimmed cabin.
What safety and technology upgrades came with the 2021 Yukon redesign?
The 2021 Yukon adds a broader standard safety package plus a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
2021 GMC Yukon Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 GMC Yukon.
4.2
2021 GMC Yukon
(297 reviews)
“Love everything about the vehicle EXCEPT it could use more lights on the interior.”
“I love this vehicle!! The only thing I would change is the handle for getting into the car. It needs to be further up”