Name: 2003 GMC Yukon XL
Brand: GMC

GMC Yukon XL

RECALL ALERT: There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Owner Reports

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Owner Satisfaction Owner Satisfaction

2000

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2003

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2021

2022

2023

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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GMC vs. Other New Car Brands

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2003 Large SUVs Ratings

2003 GMC Yukon XL

$4,200 - $6,450

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Chevrolet Blazer

$2,975 - $3,650

CR MPG:

Road test

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2003 Chevrolet Suburban

$3,575 - $6,075

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

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2003 Chevrolet Tahoe

$4,000 - $6,250

CR MPG:

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Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Dodge Durango

$3,150 - $4,425

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Ford Expedition

$3,250 - $4,575

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 GMC Yukon

$3,500 - $5,500

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Lexus LX

$ NA

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

2003 Toyota Sequoia

$5,225 - $6,050

CR MPG:

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

See All Large SUVs Ratings

Seating

3 front, 3 rear, 3 third

Drive Wheels

4WD, AWD, Rear

Warranty

Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties

4-door SUV

4-speed Automatic

5.3-liter V8 (285 hp)
6-liter V8 (320 hp)

Model History

2021-

Current Generation

The redesigned 2021 Yukon XL enters the modern era with an independent rear suspension that improved ride comfort, handling and third-row room. This is a massive vehicle that’s very functional, comfortable and high-tech. The standard 5.3-liter V8 is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and together the powertrain supplies plenty of predictable uninterrupted power. The ride is comfortable. Handling is rather ponderous but safe. The enormous cabin is eerily quiet. Cargo capacity is enormous. Controls are very easy to use except for the tricky gear selector. It’s a big step to get into the Yukon XL and the tall hood cuts forward visibility. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection are standard, but blind spot warning, lane departure and lane keeping assistance are optional.

2015-2020

2015 Redesign Year

The 2015 redesign brought a sumptuous and quiet interior, power folding second- and third-row seats, and available advanced safety features. Top-trim Denali versions offer a stronger V8 and plusher interior finishes. The Yukon XL is exceptionally quiet, in fact, it's a lot like a good luxury car. Handling is sound and responsive enough, with no excessive body lean, but the feeling of bulk is ever present. Adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision and lane departure warning are available. Choosing the top Yukon XL Denali trim with its Magnetic Ride Control improves the ride significantly, pays dividends in handling, but gets very pricey. Instead, we'd opt for the Suburban LTZ over the Yukon XL. That model pairs the Magnetic Ride Control suspension with the more efficient 5.3-liter engine, which is a combination unavailable from GMC. Changes for 2016 include available lane-keeping assist.

2007-2014

2007 Redesign Year

The 2007 redesign brought more agility, better steering and brakes, and a more responsive six-speed automatic transmission. The interior was also significantly upgraded, but the third-row seats lack thigh support and don't fold into the floor.

2000-2006

2000 Redesign Year

The Yukon XL is a clone of the Chevy Suburban. It can seat up to nine people and haul massive cargo loads or tow a 10,000-pound trailer. The Yukon XL handles commendably and its brakes work well. It also has a well-controlled ride. ESC arrived in 2003.

GMC Yukon XL

2003 SUVs Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

GMC vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

GMC vs. Other New Car Brands

GMC vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2003 Large SUVs Ratings