2021 GMC Yukon Towing Capacity

You have many things to consider when buying a truck or SUV. What do you need your vehicle to be able to do? Do you want to take advantage of the great outdoors and head off-road in your SUV? Or do you plan on towing a boat or a camper for recreational weekends? If you’re considering a GMC Yukon, here is what you need to know to take advantage of your GMC Yukon XL towing capacity.

2021 GMC Yukon Towing Capacity Increase

For 2021, all models of the GMC Yukon have seen a large increase in their towing capacity.

Yukon models from 2015-2020 had a standard towing capacity of 6,000 to 6,500 lbs. The 2021 models have a standard towing capacity of 7,500-7,900 lbs. with the Max Trailering Package. This increase is due to the introduction of the new generation of GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, which are now being built on the GM T1 platform. This platform replaced the GM K2 platform and was introduced in 2019.

The 2021 GMC Yukon also gets a small bump in fuel economy, despite being larger and loaded with more equipment than previous versions. Compared to last year’s models, the 2021 GMC Yukon is 6 inches longer, a difference you can see in the expanded third row and cargo area. Addressing space needs and towing capacity were key priorities in the redesigned 2021 model.

Of course, there’s more than just towing capacity to consider when choosing options for your SUV. Based on your intended usage of your vehicle, you should also consider other options such as the type of tire you use, carrying capacity, and passenger comfort options.

Trailering Options on the 2021 GMC Yukon

In addition to the excellent standard towing capacity of the 2021 GMC Yukon, you can improve your trailering capabilities with the additional available options. With the Max Trailering Package, your Yukon will see an increase to its max towing capacity to as much as 8,400 lbs. and this package features an enhanced cooling radiator.

The available ProGrade Trailering System can also be added. This option comes with Hitch Guidance with Hitch View, an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, an In-Vehicle Trailering App, and Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert. These options will eliminate the guesswork associated with trailering, giving you a whole new level of confidence while towing a heavy load.

Other Upgrades on the 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 fifth generation GMC Yukon comes with a slew of other upgrades over previous generations, all designed to maximize the vehicle’s capabilities and increase its performance. The 2021 Yukon comes with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. You can upgrade to a 6.2-liter V-8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque when you go for the Denali edition.

This year, the Yukon has a new platform, which is the same one seen on the Chevy Tahoe and Suburban. The Yukon shines with its own unique styling, though. It also boasts an independent rear suspension, a feature never previously offered on any large GMC SUV.

The GMC Yukon’s AT4 and Denali trim levels come with an available Air Ride Adaptive Suspension that can increase your ground clearance by up to 2 inches and adjust the suspension for a smooth ride on even the most challenging terrain. These packages also come with the available Active Response 4WD System, which is ideal for low-traction situations, such as slick, icy, or off-road conditions.

But not all of the features of the 2021 Yukon are designed for extreme adventures. The 2021 GMC Yukon can comfortably seat up to eight passengers, and the XL edition includes 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. The technology inside of the GMC Yukon is also top-of-the-line, with a 10.2-inch premium infotainment system, Bose audio system standard on many trim packages, available power-sliding center console, panoramic sunroof, and rear-seat media systems.

Picking the Right Tires

Choosing the right tires is important when you’re considering buying a GMC Yukon for towing. Towing efficiency decreases with a larger wheel diameter. You want tires that will provide a smooth ride and support whatever it is you plan to tow. Incorrect-size tires on a trailer can create numerous issues, as well. If you notice your trailer tires have uneven wear, the culprit could be:

• Wrong tire pressure.
• Too heavy of a load.
• Uneven load management.
• Trailer misalignment.

When it comes to tires on your GMC Yukon, make sure you have the right tires for your intended use. Possible options include:

• All-season tires, which can be more limiting compared to other tires.
• All-terrain tires, which will work for occasional off-road use.
• Off-road tires, which are ideal for people who plan to drive their GMC Yukon over rough terrain often.
• Winter tires, which will give you the best traction during the winter months.

Why Choose Cochran Buick-GMC

We are a premier Ohio Buick and GMC dealer and pride ourselves on maintaining a huge selection of new and used vehicles. Our online inventory is routinely updated, so you can check out the latest selection of available vehicles from home. We even offer our online customers the same specials that walk-in customers are eligible to receive. We know vehicle buyers today conduct more research than in years past. We have comprehensive information available on all the vehicles we sell, so you can spend less time looking up details on various sites.

If you already own a Buick or GMC, consider having it serviced with us. You can view and order both OEM GMC and Buick parts right from our website. When you buy OEM parts, you can relax knowing they will fit and work as intended.

When you are ready to test drive or purchase a new or used Buick or GMC, visit our dealership. No matter what type of truck or SUV you are looking for, the knowledgeable and friendly staff here at Sweeny Buick-GMC is ready to help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs.