For a long time, GMC vehicles were often considered the underdogs to their Chevrolet relatives, but times have certainly changed. The GMC lineup is every bit a worthy competitor as those wearing the Chevrolet name. If you think that GMC is new to the SUV world simply because they have become popular, think again! The Envoy, Jimmy and of course, the Suburban, which dates back to 1937 tells you that this manufacturer is no rookie, when it comes to creating dependable and powerful off-road vehic... (full review continues below)
For a long time, GMC vehicles were often considered the underdogs to their Chevrolet relatives, but times have certainly changed. The GMC lineup is every bit a worthy competitor as those wearing the Chevrolet name. If you think that GMC is new to the SUV world simply because they have become popular, think again! The Envoy, Jimmy and of course, the Suburban, which dates back to 1937 tells you that this manufacturer is no rookie, when it comes to creating dependable and powerful off-road vehicles.
Starting the lineup is the Terrain, which falls in the compact crossover segment. A sophisticated exterior and quiet cabin are complemented by a significantly stronger V6 engine for 2013. Plus, GMC has added a Denali trim level that gives you all the standard SLT-2 features, plus Denali-specific wheels, blind zone alert and rear-cross traffic systems and special trim details for the interior and exterior. Terrain also receives a revised touchscreen audio interface, which includes smartphone app integration.
Acadia has been redesigned on the exterior for 2013, and given a higher quality cabin with new technological features. It will still accommodate up to eight passengers and its highly respected 3.6-liter 288 horsepower V6 will remain the same. Visibility has been greatly improved due to wider rear glass, and soft red ambient cabin lighting is a unique feature that will be a strong selling point. Plus, anyone will appreciate that both rear seats are roomy and fold flat to open up 117 cubic feet of cargo space.
The 2013 Acadia will offer plenty of options for customization including a trailer sway package, dual sunroof, rear seat entertainment system, blind spot detection and rearview camera. Those opting for Denali will swoon over the gorgeous 20-inch wheels they get, plug upgraded leather, dual exhaust tips and a whole lot more.
The GMC Yukon will continue to be a strong contender in the larger SUV segment against Toyota Sequoia and its twin Chevrolet Tahoe. Yukon can sit as many as nine passengers, and tow up to 8,500 pounds. Its standard 5.3-liter V8 is a powerhouse, but GMC is generous enough to offer an engine with even more power, if that is not enough. The 6.2-liter V8 can produce 403 horsepower and accelerate this massive vehicle zero to 60 mph in only 7.5 seconds. Yukon is smooth, comfortable, confident and composed on the road. It is available in SLE, SLT and Denali trims, with a starting MSRP of $40,435.
Of course, finishing the lineup is a vehicle long-respected in the SUV world. The 2013 Yukon XL will continue to be a top pick against Toyota Sequoia, Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition EL and Cadillac Escalade ESV. Those that live by the “bigger is better” philosophy will appreciate that Yukon XL seats nine passengers, yet still grants 49 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row seat.
With its first class interior, power fold-and-tumble seats and available rear seat DVD system, everyone is sure to be comfortable, even on a long road trip. For the driver, there are plenty of available features to enjoy, including rear vision camera, touchscreen navigation and rear parking assist.