Model Strengths:

• Lots of Seating
• Impressive Hauling and Towing Capacity
• Hybrid Helps Large Suv Achieve Respectable Fuel Economy

Model Overview:

For a series of massive SUVs, the Yukon family is doing its part to drink less gas. The Yukon and Yukon XL 1500 share a standard 5.3-liter V8 (also available with Flex Fuel capability) and a 6-speed automatic, while the Yukon XL 2500 gets a boost to a 6.0-liter V8. Both the Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali have a 6.2-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management that shuts off cylinders when they're not needed to save fuel. The Hybrid and Denali Hybrid models use the 6.0-liter V8 and a 6-speed automatic transmission, plus an electric motor to return 21 mpg city. That's a full third better than the 2-wheel-drive base Yukon, which gets 15 mpg in the city.

There's no sacrificing power, though. The 5.3-liter makes just over 300 hp in either standard or XL, the 6.0-liter is capable of 352 hp, and the 6.2-liter Denali has 403 hp under the hood. The Hybrid's engine and motor combine for a total of 332 hp. All Yukons are available in rear-wheel or full-time 4-wheel drive. In the base models, there are low-range gears for off-road use, while the Denali uses all-wheel drive for traction without the low range.

Safety features like head curtain airbags for all rows of seating are standard, as is stability control and ABS. A new tech feature for 2010 is USB connectivity in the console. Denali drivers get a few extras such as heated and cooled front seats and a power-tilt steering column. And for a little help in maneuvering this big beast with or without a trailer in tow, rear parking assist and backup camera are available.

Model Changes:

The Yukon has nothing new for 2010 in either the Yukon or larger Yukon XL. The most noteworthy additions of past years -- the top-of-the-lineup Denali trim and the gasoline/electric hybrid join forces for the first time this year, with a Denali Hybrid model available.

Model Value:

For being such a large SUV, with a capability of up to nine passengers depending on its configuration, the ride is comfortable and controlled. The interior makes a high-quality impression and the towing capacity ranges all the way up to 9600 pounds. Even the hybrid is capable of pulling 5900 pounds.