GMC Yukon (K2UG) and GMC Yukon XL (K2YG)

2015 GMC Yukon

This is the latest incarnation of GMC's full size SUVs and this brand new Yukon tries to take GMC's Professional Grade status to its whole new level, the same thing as the Sierra pickup did last year even though the new Yukon is entirely based on the new Sierra as much as its twin, the Chevrolet Suburban and the Tahoe were based on the Silverado.

Whoa there, aren't they the same?

Yes. While the GMC Sierra and the Chevrolet Silverado both have the same mechanics, their SUV equivalents are just like that. They both run on their new K2XX platform and rather than being unibody like most modern SUVs do, these machines prefer their old-school body-on-frame ways due to its popularity. Even American footballers had one of these in their spare time because like these men, these macho SUVs suit their personality.

What's the difference?

2015 GMC Yukon

2015 GMC Yukon

The main difference between those not only by its exterior looks but the high-end Denali trim is what sets them apart. The Denali trim offers a premium exterior look, a well-tailored interior fit for Ward's list of Best Interiors, and a more powerful 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 FlexFuel petrol engine. Exclusive to the Yukon Denali and its long wheelbase Yukon XL Denali, this 6.2L V8 engine develops a class-leading power output of 420hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. It features Advanced Direct Injection, Active Fuel Management, and Variable Valve Timing.

Do they still have the engine from the Suburban?

Yes. They do have the same 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 FlexFuel engine from the Chevy Suburban and Tahoe twins. This engine, like its bigger 6.2L one, do comes with Advanced Direct Injection, Active Fuel Management, and Variable Valve Timing but this little guy gets 355HP of power and 383 lb-ft of torque.

What's it like being on the inside?

2015 GMC Yukon interior

2015 GMC Yukon interior

Just like its Chevy twins, the new Yukon, along with its long wheelbase XL model, are benefitted with the host of creature comforts that will seriously deliver the lap of luxury with a price that is too much to bear. You can have an entertainment system that plays DVD and Blu-Ray, reduced NVH, GMC IntelliLink3 system, Bose Surround Sound System, and tons of other luxury car-ish features that feels so premium enough, you can feel like you're a politician going on a picnic. As for seating capability, the Yukon can fit up to 9 people, more than enough to fit the entire family or your party-obsessed frat boys.

What about handling?

Just like the Chevy twins, the new GMC Yukon feels fine when driving normally but because it's so big in size, the turning radius is not good enough to slip in unnoticed. Of course, being the mammoth in the pack, driving around for fun is a lot more difficult especially when it comes with the Magnetic Ride Control inspired from General Motors sportscars.

Should I buy one?

The all new Yukon starts at $46,335 up to $65,380 for the Yukon XL Denali model so it maybe less pricey than a Range Rover but more pricey than the Suburban and the Tahoe even though they're the same kind so it takes a little eenie-meenie-miney-mo to choose which of these twins to buy but if you're more of an upper class, go for the Denali trim. It maybe more expensive than the regular but it's a stand out.

Photo: General Motors