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GMC Yukon Hybrid - What the Auto Press Says

The 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid ranks 5 out of 10 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the GMC Yukon Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The GMC Yukon Hybrid seats eight, can tow more than 6,000 pounds and gets up to 21 mpg in city driving. However, consumers who don't need full-size SUV capability may save money by checking out a large crossover.

It seems many auto reviewers don't know what to do with the GMC Yukon Hybrid. While some say it's just what the American market needs (after all, if Americans are going to buy large SUVs, they may as well be efficient as possible), others wonder why the cutting-edge hybrid technology in the Yukon wasn't put in a smaller car, where it could save even more fuel. Maybe the press is just starting to catch up with technology. As Edmunds notes, "A few years ago, the idea of a full-size traditional truck-based SUV averaging 21 mpg seemed about as likely as a Chevy Aveo blowing away a Corvette in the quarter-mile." Still, they add, "Getting an amazing 50 percent better fuel economy without giving up a powerful V8, eight-passenger capacity and the ability to tow 6,000 pounds might qualify that rig as the eighth wonder of the world. That rig is the 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid."

The Yukon Hybrid uses a two-mode hybrid system that GM developed alongside BMW and Chrysler. The system uses two electric motors: one to power the SUV at slow speeds, and one that adds the gasoline engine when more power is needed. While reviewers are almost unanimous in saying the system works well, they disagree on if it's worth the nearly $13,000 price premium over a gasoline-only Yukon. They also point out that though the Yukon Hybrid's fuel economy numbers are good for a large SUV, buyers shouldn't expect to save too much on gasoline.

If you need a large SUV that can seat up to eight and tow heavy loads, the GMC Yukon Hybrid may be what you're looking for. However, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid offers similar capabilities for less money, while the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid offers more luxury for those who want it. If you only need the Yukon Hybrid's people-hauling capabilities, check out a large crossover like the GMC Acadia or Ford Flex. They cost less and seat a crowd.

General Motors, GMC's parent company, has recently declared bankruptcy. While the company says that business should continue as usual, the bankruptcy could add a layer of uncertainty for GM buyers. However, those who are able to stomach the uncertainty may be able to get a great deal on a new GMC. Check out What GM's Bankruptcy Means for You to answer any questions you have before buying.

The GMC Yukon Hybrid was introduced in 2008. For 2009, Bluetooth connectivity and power-adjusting pedals are standard. Unlike the gas-only Yukon, the Yukon Hybrid is not available in a long wheelbase.

• "The Yukon Hybrid represents a solid entry in the green sweepstakes, coming close to living up to GM's claim of a 50 percent improvement in city fuel economy over a two-wheel-drive 5.3-liter V8 Yukon rated at 14 mpg in the city." -- AutoWeek
• "Combining 21-mpg fuel economy with the towing capacity of a traditional SUV, the 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid is an amazing piece of machinery. However, most folks would be better served by any of GM's full-size crossovers that are nearly as efficient and much less expensive." -- Edmunds
• "We're usually skeptical when it comes to 'no-compromise' solutions, but after driving this fuel-efficient full-size SUV, it looks as close as it gets." -- Motor Trend
• "While I marveled at the engineering and sophistication of this two-mode hybrid, I remain somewhat baffled by the too-heavy, too-costly vehicles in which the technology made its debut." -- New York Times
• "There are, in fact, plenty of folks who need a vehicle that can haul copious amounts of stuff and tow a trailer or camper as well." -- Popular Mechanics
• "This GMC Yukon Hybrid is a good compromise -- or appeasement, if you prefer. Fuel mileage is equal to many cars and, while you're still directing a huge mass (over 6,000 pounds empty) down the road, sitting high and taking up a lot of real estate, you're safe, secure and basking in the lap of luxury. Isn't that the American way?" -- The Auto Channel
• "General Motors is surely making Toyota bristle at the comparison that GMC is making on the Yukon Hybrid V-8 to the darling Camry: Toyota's 2.4-liter, 158-horsepower, four-cylinder sedan coupled to a five-speed automatic is also EPA-rated at 21 mpg city." -- Washington Times
• "If The General had taken the hit and offered the Yukon Hybrid for the same price or less than its gasoline equivalent, it would be a far more compelling proposition. But they didn't. " -- The Truth About Cars
• "Imagine a Toyota Prius crawling over rocks and slogging through mud. ... A GMC Yukon Hybrid would have made it just fine - without the need for a Tundra-in-reserve." -- Wichita Falls Times Record

Yukon-Hybrid Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)

For the most part, reviewers are positive about the Yukon Hybrid's performance, even if they disagree on if the large SUV's fuel economy is good or merely good enough. Some test drivers complain about the hybrid's regenerative braking, but more are impressed by the SUV's power. continue

Yukon-Hybrid Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)

Reviewers have little to say about the 2009 GMC Yukon's exterior design except to note that GM may have taken the hybrid badging too far -- nine large "HYBRID" decals and badges adorn the Yukon Hybrid, which is otherwise tough to tell apart from the conventional Yukon. continue

Yukon-Hybrid Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)

Though not as luxurious as its platform-mate the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, the GMC Yukon hybrid has an interior that pleases all but a few reviewers. Plenty of gadgets are standard, including Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, a DVD-based navigation system and a readout that lets drivers track their fuel efficiency. continue

Yukon-Hybrid Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)

Due in some part to its large size, the GMC Yukon Hybrid does well in crash tests. In federal government crash tests, it earns five stars, the most possible, for driver, front and rear passenger protection in frontal and side impact crash tests. It also earns a three-star rollover rating in both two and four-wheel drive. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not crash tested the Yukon or the Yukon Hybrid. continue

Yukon-Hybrid Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 GMC Yukon Hybrid is covered by a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. A three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is also included. continue