If you are looking for great fuel economy that does not compromise power, look no further than the 2013 GMC Yukon Hybrid SUV. A couple of 60-kilowatt electric motors are paired to a powerful 6.0-liter V8 engine for a combined output of 379 horsepower. Not bad for a hybrid, right? It is available as both rear and four-wheel drive and under light throttle conditions, Yukon can accelerate to 25 mph on electric power alone. This does wonderful things to optimize fuel efficiency when stuck in stop-and-go traffic. Interestingly, the battery is constantly replenished by the regenerative braking system. The Yukon Hybrid offers impressive towing abilities, handling up to 6,000 pounds. Plus, it can return 20 mpg in the city and 23 mph on the highway. Driving this SUV could take some getting used to; not only due to size, but because it is so incredibly quiet, you will often wonder if it is on when the gas engine is shut off. It is composed on the road, but you realize how big it is when you are trying to park.
• Audio - The standard audio system is impressive, consisting of 10 Bose speakers, one subwoofer, CD player, iPod integration, USB connection and auxiliary audio input.
• Navigation - The touchscreen navigation system fully integrates with your CD player, USB port and stereo. Plus, it includes TimeShift technology that allows you to pause live radio as long as 20 minutes. Get to where you need to go with maps and turn-by-turn directions.
• Rear Seat Entertainment - Aside from a sunroof, the rear seat entertainment system is the only optional technology feature for the hybrid. Keep rear seat passengers entertained with movies and games with this system.
Although the 2013 GMC Yukon Hybrid has yet to be tested, it is expected to fall in line with last year’s model, which received top scores in frontal-offset and side-impact protection, but only three out of five stars for a rollover rating. OnStar is included, which gives you automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle assistance and more. Other safety features include:
• Rearview camera
• Traction control
• Child seat anchors
• Post-collision safety system
• Seatbelt pretensioners
• Turn signal mirrors
• Stability control
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Engine immobilizer
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Rear door safety locks
• Anti-theft alarm system
Most either love or hate the styling of the Yukon Hybrid as it is quite boxy. It does get 18-inch hybrid-exclusive wheels. Also, to maximize fuel-efficiency, aerodynamic refinements are featured, such as a lowered front and a streamlined edge on the hood. An aluminum lift gate and hood make the vehicle lighter as well.
Although the cabin is certainly attractive, there is nothing to distinguish the hybrid from other models, like you might expect. A simple control layout is complemented by high quality materials. It is comfortable, but nothing most will get overly excited over. Yukon Hybrid can accommodate up to eight passengers and both rear seat rows are adult-friendly. On the downside, the third row does not fold flat and must be completely removed to utilize all cargo space. These are not light seats!
You certainly won’t hear any complaints when it comes to cargo space. When the second row is down and third row is removed, Yukon Hybrid gives you 109 cubic feet of space. On the other hand, if you have a full load of passengers, cargo space is only 16.9 cubes.