Coming to an upper-middle-class neighborhood near you: The 2021 GMC Yukon is richer and bigger, with details and a price tag to match.
Pros Bolder looks Upscale Denali trim Tougher AT4 trim Available turbodiesel And it’s bigger…
Cons …but does it really need to be? Lots of options Denali goes heavy on chrome look How much will it tow?
An all-new Yukon bows for 2021 and it rides on a new platform shared with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, but wearing distinct styling. As with the Chevys, the 2021 GMC Yukon will come with an independent rear suspension, a first for the large GM SUVs.While both the rough-and-tumble AT4 and its butch looks and off-road equipment and the luxurious Denali and its hand-stitched leather interior seem the most compelling, the one to go for it actually the well-equipped and more affordable SLT. This mid-range model comes packed with features that most buyers are looking for, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, 20-inch wheels, a power rear liftgate, and a suite of driver-assistance features.
The GMC Yukon has been fully redesigned for 2021.
Pros New independent rear suspension benefits ride and cargo capacity Longer wheelbase increases passenger comfort Redesigned interior is substantial improvement over the outgoing model Newly available diesel-powered engine
Cons Lacks maneuverability in parking lots and city streets Not much different than the less expensive Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse is a big family mover with a sharper look and better safety features.
PROS Sharp looks Standard active safety features Comfortable ride Spacious interior Wireless smartphone software
CONS Outdated AWD system Middling fuel economy Just one engine available
Chevrolet has given its three-row Traverse a light refresh for the 2021 model year that includes revised exterior styling and a host of new standard driver-assistance features. Among them are automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps. An 8.0-inch display inside the gauge cluster is now an available tech option, and new upholstery designs dress up the interior.
PROS Spacious cabin, peppy acceleration, fuel efficient powertrain.
CONS Big blind spots toward the rear, plasticky interior parts, most appealing options cost extra.
The 2021 Traverse has no significant changes. Part of the second Traverse generation introduced for 2018.
PROS Passenger room is generous in all three rows Loads of space for any combination of passengers and cargo Feature-rich infotainment system comes with standard Wi-Fi hotspot
CONS Some safety features are only available on top trims Quality of some interior panels and controls seems low-rent for this class
