Expect few changes for GMC’s full-size 2011 Yukon SUV. This three-row, eight-passenger Jimmy still comes with a quiet, roomy cabin, 109 cubic feet of cabin area, up to 8,400 pounds of towing capacity, a ton of standard features and options, and, in the regularly powered trims, a strong, if not particularly fuel-efficient V8 drivetrain. Additionally, three trim levels, the base SE, high-end SLT, and green-leaning Hybrid continue to be available in either rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) versions. Since its last significant re-design in 2007, this big ‘Ute, along with its Chevy Tahoe stablemate, has been giving traditional competitors like Ford’s Expedition, Nissan’s Armada, and Toyota’s Sequoia a heady run for the SUV dollar.

Unlike the popular unibody-construction crossovers, the truck-based Yukon, especially with off-road-capable 4WD availability, offers a level of heavy-duty utility that the more car-like crossovers simply can’t match. Furthermore, a visibility-enhancing high stance and hefty bulk help the Yukon achieve consistently high safety scores. Though this Jimmy's ride is comfortable enough, handling can, as expected, be a bit ponderous.

The standard powertrain for the 2011 Yukon SLE and SLT trims is a dependable 5.3-liter V8 engine paired with a standard six-speed auto-manual transmission. This E85-capable (FFV) mill puts out 320 hp (326 hp using ethanol-heavy E85 gas) and 335 lb-ft of torque (348 lb-ft with E85 fuel). Despite variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation at highway speeds, expect a merely tepid 15/21 mpg in both RWD and 4WD configurations. Towing capacity, however, remains maxed out at a hefty 8,400 pounds with the RWD trims.

The 2011 Yukon Hybrid is delivered with a 6.0-liter hybrid V8 gasoline engine with a standard four-speed automatic with a tow/haul mode included in its software. In combination with the two 60-kilowatt electric motors, the Yukon Hybrid pounds out 332 hp and 367 lb-ft of torque. This two-mode hybrid system additionally features regenerative braking, cylinder deactivation, variable valve timing, and automatic engine stop/start for additional battery juice and fuel efficiency. Expect 21/22 efficiency and up to 6,200 pounds of towing capacity from this capable Hybrid.

Yukon trims equipped with on-demand 4WD feature automatic locking hubs, rear locking differential, and electronic hi/lo gear selection. The optional Z71 Off-Road package makes the SLE and SLT Yukon trims formidable off-road vehicles, while, with its more delicate drivetrain, the Hybrid is not recommended for serious off-road use.

Standard appearance and convenience equipment for the base SLE Yukon trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rack, trailer hitch and wiring, side steps, premium cloth upholstery, power accessories, including heated outside mirrors, cruise control, three-zone air conditioning, leather and simulated alloy interior accents, OnStar/Bluetooth communications and voice-activated directions, a single-CD player with nine Bose speakers, and a USB connection. The amped-up SLT adds leather upholstery, remote engine start, universal garage door opener, upgraded cabin trim, rear-view camera, and OnStar turn-by-turn navigation to the mix. Topping things off is the 2011 Yukon Hybrid, with 18-inch alloys, heated front seats, reverse-tilting mirrors, and ride-adjustable suspension system.

Options for all trims include a power sunroof, rear-seat DVD entertainment, rear parking assist sensors, 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, second-row captain's chairs, heavy-duty towing equipment, and the highly-touted Z71 Off-Road package with skid plates and auxiliary engine cooling. Additionally the SLT and Hybrid Yukon trims offer available DVD navigation, upgraded appearance features, power liftgate, and heated second-row seats.

Besides its formidable size, the 2011 Yukon offers such additional standard safety features as four-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags, three-row head airbags, OnStar Emergency Service and Crisis Assistance, daytime running lights, and a post-collision safety system. Further standard safety equipment for the higher trims includes front fog/driving lights and rear parking sensors, both of which are optional for the SLE trim level. The Hybrid, meanwhile, additionally offers standard turn-signal-integrated mirrors and optional blind-side warning technology.

Owners of the 2010 Yukon report such disappointments as a lack of some traditional options, less-than-exciting gas mileage with the traditional 5.3-liter V8, some rather bland interior materials, a cramped and inefficient third-row seat, and the Yukon Hybrid’s hefty pricetag. Balancing these complaints, however, are the owner-lauded standard features list, safety ratings, roomy, comfortable cabin, over-the-top towing capacity, off-road capability, and just plain value of the traditional Yukon, with the Hybrid claiming further owner plaudits for its green-leaning, more fuel-efficient drive system.