2015 Yukon Denali Gains Eight Gears, Improved Highway Fuel Efficiency

Updated model also includes wireless device charging, 4G connectivity

2014-11-11

Back

Print Print

Word

Oshawa, Ontario (Tuesday, November 11, 2014) – Thanks to the addition of an all-new 8-speed automatic transmission, the updated 2015 GMC Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali models now lead several competitors in horsepower, torque and highway fuel consumption ratings.

Both the Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali now pair their 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V-8 engines with a new Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission, designed to be more fuel-efficient than the Denali’s previous six-speed automatic. Highway fuel consumption ratings for Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali models improved to 11.1 L/100km with the eight-speed automatic, while the city rating has improved to 15.9 L/100km.

Within its segment, the Yukon Denali continues to deliver unrivaled power and efficiency. Denali’s 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 delivers a segment-leading 420 hp and segment-leading 460 lb-ft of torque with highway fuel efficiency equal to or better than many 6- or 8-cylinder engines in competitive makes.

Compared to the Yukon Denali’s previous six-speed transmission, the new 8L90 transmission offers smaller steps between gears, allowing the engine to efficiently leverage its peak power bands. The wider gearing spread also allows the use of a lower 3.23:1 rear axle ratio, which reduces engine speeds and fuel consumption, especially during highway cruising.

Comfort and capability are not compromised for fuel efficiency. Not only is the 8L90 transmission capable of handling more torque than the six-speed transmission it replaces, but its shift controls and solenoids are more responsive and provide quicker shift times. A new torque converter also delivers smoother performance at low speeds, especially when carrying heavy loads or pulling trailers. Tow ratings – up to 3,674 kg (8,100 pounds) for the Yukon Denali and 3,583 kg (7,900 pounds) for the Yukon XL Denali – are unaffected by the addition of the eight-speed transmission.

The 2015 Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali continue to blend unique design elements with upscale amenities, including premium interior materials. Convenience and connectivity improvements include:

A new hands-free power liftgate, which can be opened and closed by simply passing a foot beneath the rear bumper
A wireless charging surface for WPC (Qi) or PMA (Powermat) compatible mobile devices integrated into the design of the center console lid. A list of compatible devices is located at gmtotalconnect.com
OnStar with 4G LTE, which provides in-car data connectivity and a Wi-Fi hotspot capable of connecting up to seven devices at one time
An enhanced GMC Intellilink system, which provides incoming ‘Text Message Alerts’ when paired to a compatible Bluetooth phone

The updated 2015 Yukon Denali and Yukon XL Denali models are priced from $74,600 and $77,650 respectively (plus a destination charge of $1,695), and are now available at dealers.

About GMC in Canada

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, with innovation and engineering excellence built into all GMC vehicles. The brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC’s highest-volume vehicle, the Sierra pickup, is the most powerful light duty pickup on the market, and the first full-size pickup to receive the highest possible five-star Overall Vehicle Score for safety since the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration changed its New Car Assessment Program for the 2011 model year. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.gm.ca, on Twitter at @GMCCanada or at http://www.facebook.com/gmccanada.

###