Likely New Styling, Tech, and Other Upgrades for the 2025 Yukon & Yukon XL

The highly anticipated 2025 Yukon and Yukon XL models have yet to be revealed by GMC, but there are a few things that we know we can expect. Those include updated styling, a more powerful diesel engine, an all-new dash design, and several new technologies, particularly in regards to towing. No launch date has been set, but a good guess is that new models can be expected to arrive at GMC of Rochester in the summer or fall of 2024.

Exterior Lighting Changes

Based on spy photos, there will be changes to the front and rear fascias, with possible adjustments to the DRL lighting and possible relocation of the LED headlights.  The changes may resemble the front of the 2024 GMC Acadia. 

All-New Dash and Center Display

The dash for both models will be completely redesigned. Anchoring the new design will be a class-leading 17.7-inch center touchscreen that will be standard on all models.  This large screen will be integrated into the dash and will sit adjacent to a new 11-inch driver information center. Both displays on the same horizontal plane will make it easier for the driver to quickly scan both. Below the center display are HVAC vents, and below remain physical controls for the most used climate control functions. 

The transmission selector marks a return to a stalk on the right side of the steering wheel. Rather than the mechanical transmission stalks of the distant past, this lever will be electronically controlled and just require light movements for each selection. The new transmission selector location frees up space on the dash for the big screen and will be more intuitive to use than the current controls located on the dash panel. The center screen will be angled toward the driver but not so much that the front passenger can’t easily use it. There will be a new 3-spoke steering wheel with easier-to-use thumb controls. 

Much of the rest of the cabin can be expected to have decor and trim variations by trim level. The Denali or Denali Ultimate may have authentic open-pore wood trim for the first time.

Suspension Enhancements

Updates will be made to both model lines’ multi-link independent rear suspension to improve ride and handling. Higher grades will have available air suspensions, and there will likely be a return to Magnetic Ride Control for Denali grades. This feature uses dampers with a magnetically reactive fluid that variably stiffens based on the level of an electrical charge. The electrical charge will vary depending on driving conditions. Thus, the dampers can be compliant for a smooth highway ride and instantly firm up in a curve or tight turn.

Based on announced changes on other GM models, the Duramax turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 diesel V6 is expected to gain almost 30 horsepower for a total of 305 hp. The torque will remain unchanged.

Towing Technology

Due to the popularity of the Yukon and Yukon XL as towing vehicles, a significant portion of the new technology will be directed to making towing more convenient. Available features are likely to include technologies that will: 

• Display a top-down image to help line up the vehicle and trailer.
• Control speed on steep descents to allow the driver to concentrate on steering.
• Extend the blind spot zone to accommodate trailer length.
• Utilize a smartphone application that enables you to input the type of trailers you tow and then select the entered trailer in the vehicle, causing it to automatically make internal adjustments.
• Help prevent trailer tire blowouts with a trailer tire life monitor and over-speed warning.
• Offer anytime/anywhere access to the vehicle’s load rating.
• Help drivers position their trailers with guidelines on the Surround View camera system to indicate the trailer’s width and path. When the turn signal is activated, guidelines will show the driver the estimated turning path for both the vehicle and trailer.
• Provide a checklist and step-by-step instructions to prepare for towing, launching, and retrieving a trailered boat.
• Calculate routes based on towed trailer size using built-in Google Maps.

Other new technologies will include the ability to access the surround-view camera system remotely on a smartphone or similar device. An Interior motion detector will be able to detect if a baby or small child is left behind by their breathing alone. 

These changes amount to a half-billion-dollar investment in the Arlington, Texas, Assembly plant, which turns 70 years old in 2024. It is unclear when GMC will make their announcement for the 2025 Yukon and Yukon XL. If you are interested, you can request one of our GMC of Rochester sales professionals to notify you when new information becomes available.