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Suv showdown: gmc yukon vs toyota grand highlander – exploring off-road prowess and family capabilities

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • The Yukon is a better choice for those who need a powerful vehicle with a high towing capacity, while the Grand Highlander is a better choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and affordability.
  • Both the GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander have received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but the Grand Highlander has received a slightly higher rating from IIHS.
  • The Toyota Grand Highlander has a longer warranty than the GMC Yukon, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

When it comes to full-size SUVs, the GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander stand as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a spacious cabin, powerful engines, and advanced technology. However, discerning buyers may wonder which SUV reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison delves into every aspect of the GMC Yukon vs Grand Highlander, providing you with the insights to make an informed decision.

Performance and Powertrain

The GMC Yukon boasts a range of engine options, including a 5.3L V8 with 355 horsepower and a 6.2L V8 with 420 horsepower. The Toyota Grand Highlander, on the other hand, offers a 2.4L turbocharged inline-four with 265 horsepower and a 2.5L hybrid system with 243 horsepower. While the Yukon offers more power, the Grand Highlander’s hybrid system provides improved fuel efficiency.

Towing and Payload Capacity

If towing and hauling are important to you, the GMC Yukon has a clear advantage. It can tow up to 8,400 pounds and has a payload capacity of 1,845 pounds. The Toyota Grand Highlander, on the other hand, has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,500 pounds.

Interior and Seating

Both the GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander offer spacious and comfortable cabins. The Yukon offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the Grand Highlander has seating for up to seven. Both vehicles have ample legroom and headroom in all rows, making them suitable for families or those who frequently transport passengers.

Technology and Infotainment

The GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander are equipped with advanced technology features. The Yukon features a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Bose premium audio system. The Grand Highlander has a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a JBL premium audio system.

Safety and Reliability

Both the GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Yukon has received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Grand Highlander has received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. In terms of reliability, Toyota has a reputation for producing vehicles with high reliability ratings, while GMC has a slightly lower reliability rating.

Pricing and Value

The GMC Yukon has a starting price of $53,500, while the Toyota Grand Highlander has a starting price of $36,420. The Yukon is more expensive, but it offers more powerful engines and a higher towing capacity. The Grand Highlander is more affordable, but it has less power and a lower towing capacity.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander are both excellent full-size SUVs. The Yukon is a better choice for those who need a powerful vehicle with a high towing capacity, while the Grand Highlander is a better choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and affordability. Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Grand Highlander has a better fuel economy than the GMC Yukon, especially with the hybrid powertrain.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious cabin?
A: Both the GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander have spacious cabins, but the Yukon can accommodate up to eight passengers while the Grand Highlander can accommodate up to seven.

Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating?
A: Both the GMC Yukon and Toyota Grand Highlander have received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but the Grand Highlander has received a slightly higher rating from IIHS.

Q: Which SUV has a longer warranty?
A: The Toyota Grand Highlander has a longer warranty than the GMC Yukon, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Yukon has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Toyota has a reputation for producing vehicles with high reliability ratings, while GMC has a slightly lower reliability rating.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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