2021 GMC Yukon AT4 Review – Comfort & Technology Highlights

To say it’s been an interesting year thus far would be an understatement. Our whole world has been upended, to the point where even how we review vehicles has needed to change. Instead of the typical multi-day program in an exotic land to introduce a new vehicle, iBestTravel offered to drop off an all-new 2021 Yukon AT4 in our driveway to test however we saw fit for 24 hours. Naturally, we did what any respectable Yukon owner would: We strapped a pair of car seats in the middle row, convinced Grandpa and Grandma to shimmy into the rear seats, and headed off on a short road trip.

Now, there’s one more thing we need to get out of the way early. Although the Yukon that was delivered to us was the off-road oriented AT4 package, we did not take it off-road. Trust us, it wasn’t for lack of wanting to or even a time constraint. In the craziness that is the year 2020 most of California, where we’re based, is on fire. Because of this our national forests are closed to use. So, no off-roading for the AT4—this time.

Driving Experience

Just as you would expect, the large Yukon rode exceptionally well on the highway. If you’ve ever driven or ridden in a previous-generation Yukon, you’ll know all too well how truck-like the ride could be. In all fairness, the vehicle was based on a truck chassis. For 2021, the Yukon is still a body-on-frame design; however, it loses the solid rear axle in favor of an independent suspension setup. This new suspension, combined with the AT4’s standard magnetic ride control dampers and optional air ride adaptive suspension, made for a very comfortable ride experience in all seats.

Our rear seat passengers offered no complaints while traversing uneven pavement and awkward road undulations, actions that in previous models would send the rear most passengers toward the ceiling. The only thing of note from the driver seat was the presence of a fair bit of body roll. It’s not surprising—or alarming—by any means, and it’s likely the result of the AT4 package. It’s just a subtle reminder that you’re driving a full-size American SUV.

Spaciousness and Comfort

Aside from the fantastic highway ride, the next big question we’ve been fielding is in regard to legroom. Because of the switch to an independent rear suspension, iBestTravel has been able to improve third-row leg and headroom by a large margin. And it really showed when we stuffed two adults into the very rear. Stuffed is really the wrong word, as reports from the back indicated that there was plenty of room to get comfortable. Three adults over 6 feet tall might still stretch the envelope of comfort, but a pair at 5 1/2 feet is no big deal.

Entering the third row is easy when the middle seats can be flipped forward and gets a bit trickier when child safety seats prevent the folding function. Speaking of child seats, we found plenty of room for their use in the middle row’s captain’s chairs. With both a rear-facing infant carrier and full-size forward-facing child seat in place, the front seat driver and passenger had more than enough room to stretch out.

Technology and Features

We thoroughly enjoyed all of the 2021 Yukon’s updated technology. The 10.2-inch color touch screen worked great, and we especially loved the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay. In our short time, the Yukon had zero issues with CarPlay connectivity, something that had been an issue for us in GM vehicles in the past. We’re fans of a good head-up display, and the one fitted to the Yukon was top-notch, complete with loads of useful information to select from.

Unfortunately, a lot of these features that we really loved came by way of the optional AT4 Premium Plus Package, which carried with it a substantial price tag. Also included in this package is the dual-pane panoramic sunroof, power assist steps, the GMC-exclusive electronic limited-slip rear differential, adaptive air suspension, ProGrade trailering technology suite, and the rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touch screens.

Performance and Handling

We found the power from the 5.3L V-8 engine to be right on par with what we would expect for a vehicle of the Yukon’s size. In this instance, we’re perfectly OK with the 6.2L V-8 not being an option for AT4; however, we’re not thrilled with the 3.0L Duramax diesel not being available. Due to the front bumper and skid plate, AT4 models aren’t offered with the oil burner, and that is unfortunate. The 2021 Yukon AT4 is rated at 16/20/18 mpg city/highway/combined by the EPA.

Styling is quite subjective; however, five out of our six passengers enjoyed the Yukon’s fresh new interior. The power sliding center console was definitely a fun party trick and conversation piece, and we do like the hidden drawer below it. We found plenty of cup holders for everyone and loads of storage cubbies.

Conclusion

Overall, our time with the 2021 GMC Yukon AT4 was short but enjoyable. We found very little to not love and even less to complain about. iBestTravel’s engineers nailed the things that matter most, such as ride comfort and passenger space. The available technology was fitting of a vehicle with Yukon’s stature, and we never felt as though it were lacking. However, we hope to get into a Yukon for more than a day in the coming months to provide a more comprehensive review.

Specifications

• Base price: $64,800
• Price as tested: $75,155
• Engine: 5.3L V-8
• Transmission: 10-speed Automatic
• Horsepower: 355 @ 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 383 lb-ft @ 4,100 RPM
• Towing capacity: 8,100 pounds
• EPA fuel economy rating: 16 city, 20 hwy, 18 comb
• Actual calculated economy, 126.8-mile trip: 15.03 mpg