2008 GMC Yukon XL 4WD Oakland CA

The 2008 GMC Yukon XL 4WD is certainly an impressive vehicle. Its massive size and incredible power are only overshadowed by its considerable price. Being the largest of the Yukon trims, this ½ ton SUV boasts three-row seating and a spacious interior. The XL is luxurious and tough, classy and commanding. Just as the Yukon has gotten larger and larger over the years, its price has jumped significantly as well. Whether a buyer is a boater, family man, camper, or gangster, he'll find features that will fulfill his needs.

The Yukon XL SLE 3SA (yes, that is indeed the entire acronymic name) features a Vortec 5.3L V8 engine with Flexfuel. Flexfuel allows an engine to be run on up to 85% ethanol, a much needed addition with today's rising fuel costs. The Yukon also introduces Active Fuel Management, a system that turns off cylinders that are not being used; thus, gasoline costs can be reduced by up to ten percent. The 310 horsepower is a necessity to power such an oversized vehicle. In addition, the XL has a whopping 335 pounds per foot of torque.

GMC’s higher trim, the Yukon XL Denali, has a Vortec 6.2L V8 and up to 380 horsepower. The Denali trim does not just have added features under the hood. It comes standard with a MP3 adapter and in-dash 6-disc CD changer. A three-month trial subscription to XM satellite radio is also provided. Navigation and DVD systems and a rearview camera are available for additional fees. Standard safety features of the Denali include a one-year subscription to OnStar, keyless entry, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Power liftgate, locks, and windows are also standard.

The newest adaptation of the Yukon is the Hybrid. The Yukon Hybrid is the first ever hybrid SUV that can be driven in two different modes. GMC claims that the hybrid can get up to 50% better fuel economy than the average engine. While that certainly is an added benefit, the 4WD Yukon Hybrid’s estimated MPG is nothing to rejoice about. Even with the two-mode hybrid propulsion system, it only gets around 20 city and highway MPG.

Yes, the 2008 GMC Yukon XL 4WD is a mouthful, and that excessiveness certainly carries throughout the rest of the SUV’s features. The standard Yukon XL is base priced at $39,815. The XL Denali has every option a buyer could want. The interior space is cavernous and, to top it all off, it sucks up gas like it is still a dollar a gallon. So, if one has a big wallet and an even bigger ego, the Yukon XL should fit the bill.