2008 GMC Yukon XL Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
If it works for t-shirts, it works for SUVs. The 2008 GMC Yukon XL is an Xtra Large SUV that seats 8-9 passengers in three rows. It comes...
If it works for t-shirts, it works for SUVs. The 2008 GMC Yukon XL is an Xtra Large SUV that seats 8-9 passengers in three rows. It comes in both half-ton 1500 and three-quarter ton 2500 versions in five separate trims -- SLE, SLE-1, SLE-2, SLT-1, and SLT-2. Got that straight? All trims are offered in either rear-wheel or automatic all-wheel drive with low-range gearing for off-road performance.
After a total overhaul in 2007, the 2008 Yukon XL gets some powertrain changes. Standard engine is a 5.3-liter, 320-hp V8 (310-hp in AWD versions), but the XL 2500 models get a new 6.0-liter, 366-hp V8. Both engines feature cylinder deactivation, cutting of four of the eight cylinders to improve on fuel economy, which averages a less than stellar 14/20 mpg. A 4-speed automatic with overdrive is standard, but a new 6-speed automatic is paired with the 6.0 V8. Electronic stability control is newly standard on 2500 models for 2008, and the driver information center received some revisions.
The powerful SUV comes standard with traction and stability control, ABS brakes, 17-inch wheels, and dual front and side curtain airbags for all three rows. The optional backup sensors and rearview camera help clear up visibility problems that come naturally with full-size SUVs. The third row is removable and the second row folds nearly flat, to expand the 45.8 cubic foot cargo area to 137 cubic feet. Power features, cruise control, a CD player, and three-zone climate control start you out in the SLE trims, while leather upholstery and heated seats get added further up the line.
Last year's apperance updates (chrome trim, flush interior controls and exterior lights) have improved the overall style, creating a sleeker profile. Consumers notice the improved stability and quieter ride, but mostly love the interior space and V8 power. Cramped legroom in the rear seats and a non-folding third row are major complaints, along with the difficult maneuverability. They don't call it XL for nothing.
What owners say
I personally prefer the shorter version, but the XL did not make any noticeable difference in handling. The back-up cameras and automatic tilting side view mirrors when the vehicle is in reverse, enhanced the ability to park this big body where ever it will fit without bumping into anything (curbs, other vehicles or any obstacles). Handles excellent in the snow and ice. Great power off-road and surprising acceleration on any road. No special tires, but didn't matter. Loved the handling in the snow and ice. Never lost control or was concerned about sliding off the road. Really nice on highway, smooth ride,almost entertaining to drive with maps viewable during driving or split screen with map and entertainment at the same time. Hauling Capacity! Example: I bought a King sized bedroom set, minus the bed, I was able to make one trip with 2 large nightstands, vanity with mirror, Chest of drawers with all the seats remaining in the vehicle. I never pulled a trailer with it, but it has manual transmission control capability and trailer towing transmission gearing option on the column. Just a vehicle that is adaptable to my needs whether hauling people or furniture.
February 21, 2015You can't beat the performance, handling, and economy of the variable displacement engine (swaps between 4 and 8 cyclinders depending on demand) of a Yukon XL/Chevy Suburban. This is the third one I've owned and will own another. You can expect to easily get 300,000 miles out of this vehicle with regular service intervals. If you have kids, you can't put them in a safer vehicle.
June 11, 2012This is a great car for moving lots of people or towing. If you want top of the line interiors look elsewhere, GMC uses a lot of plastic and leatherette. However the interiors are spacious and practical. My 1/2 SLE 4x4 has plenty of power to pull or tow most boats or trailers. Overall the car is what I needed, only complaint is the resale value is low.
August 16, 2011What owners say
I personally prefer the shorter version, but the XL did not make any noticeable difference in handling. The back-up cameras and automatic tilting side view mirrors when the vehicle is in reverse, enhanced the ability to park this big body where ever it will fit without bumping into anything (curbs, other vehicles or any obstacles). Handles excellent in the snow and ice. Great power off-road and surprising acceleration on any road. No special tires, but didn't matter. Loved the handling in the snow and ice. Never lost control or was concerned about sliding off the road. Really nice on highway, smooth ride,almost entertaining to drive with maps viewable during driving or split screen with map and entertainment at the same time. Hauling Capacity! Example: I bought a King sized bedroom set, minus the bed, I was able to make one trip with 2 large nightstands, vanity with mirror, Chest of drawers with all the seats remaining in the vehicle. I never pulled a trailer with it, but it has manual transmission control capability and trailer towing transmission gearing option on the column. Just a vehicle that is adaptable to my needs whether hauling people or furniture.
February 21, 2015You can't beat the performance, handling, and economy of the variable displacement engine (swaps between 4 and 8 cyclinders depending on demand) of a Yukon XL/Chevy Suburban. This is the third one I've owned and will own another. You can expect to easily get 300,000 miles out of this vehicle with regular service intervals. If you have kids, you can't put them in a safer vehicle.
June 11, 2012This is a great car for moving lots of people or towing. If you want top of the line interiors look elsewhere, GMC uses a lot of plastic and leatherette. However the interiors are spacious and practical. My 1/2 SLE 4x4 has plenty of power to pull or tow most boats or trailers. Overall the car is what I needed, only complaint is the resale value is low.
August 16, 2011great quality made usa vehicle! nice trim package, could use less feul but not a deal breaker. the over all appearence is great easy to clean couls use some better moldings. bigger tire would be a plus. forth row seats option could be cool!
June 11, 2011Trims & specs
Base MSRP $43,175 | Seating 9 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $42,435 | Seating 9 |
Engine 5.3L 320 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $45,270 | Seating 9 |
Engine 5.3L 310 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $43,815 | Seating 9 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $49,090 | Seating 8 |
Engine 6.2L 380 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $38,915 | Seating 9 |
Engine 5.3L 320 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4X2 |
Base MSRP $46,660 | Seating 9 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $41,755 | Seating 9 |
Engine 5.3L 310 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $40,335 | Seating 9 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $52,175 | Seating 8 |
Engine 6.2L 380 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 45.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain AWD |
