GMC Yukon – Driving Impressions: It stands to reason that if you do something long enough you'll get damn good at it, and with the introduction of the 2007 GMC Yukon it's clear General Motors knows how to make a capable large SUV. This latest Yukon is all-new, from its platform and styling to its V8 engine lineup and available six-speed transmission. Two models are offered, the Yukon and Yukon XL, and both are available with cloth (SLE trim) or leather (SLT decor) as well as 2WD or 4WD. The Denali model adds an exclusive engine and transmission, and builds on the SLT's standard equipment list with a complete load of luxury features.

The biggest difference between the standard Yukon and the Yukon XL is the XL's extra 14 inches of wheelbase and 20 inches of overall length. The XL also gets a standard third-row seat, which is optional on the standard Yukon. Yukon SLE and SLT models can be equipped with the following new Vortec small-block V8 engines: a standard 4.8-liter (standard model only), two 5.3-liter choices with active fuel management, and two 6.0-liter choices (XL model only). Denali models get an exclusive 6.2-liter V8 that's also found in the Cadillac Escalade, but which makes more power in the Caddy. Horsepower runs the gamut between 295 and 380 with torque figures ranging between 305 lb.-ft and 415 lb.-ft.

Underneath, the 2007 Yukon gets a new coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, larger four-wheel disc brakes, and an all-new ABS system. An optional Autoride suspension reads the road and automatically adjusts the electronic shocks for a smoother ride. GMC didn't forget safety when it comes to the 2007 Yukon, including as standard equipment a StabiliTrak stability control system, dual-stage airbags for front seat occupants, side curtain airbags with rollover protection for all three rows, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Our 2007 GMC Yukon Denali test vehicle was loaded with amenities including chrome 20-inch wheels, a power sunroof, a navigation system with CD/DVD and MP3 players, a rearview camera system, and a heated steering wheel. The downside of all this is that our Denali didn't come cheap at $54,765 including an $875 destination charge. That's a pile of cash, but with big SUV sales stalled you're likely to get a big discount from sticker. If you take the rebate bait, know that our seat-of-the-pants opinion is the 2007 Denali version is the best Yukon yet, and represents a giant improvement over previous models. It isn't perfect, but then again, nothing is.

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