GMC Yukon XL Denali: Luxury in a large package

A menu of Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen on the Business page of The Sacramento Bee’s website – www.sacbee.com/news/business/article4005306.html

Sacramento, California -- Continuing a trend of reviewing motor vehicles so large that they make their own weather, today's offering examines the 2019 GMC Yukon XL Denali 4WD.

This is a huge vehicle, so long it resembles a customized stretch SUV rented by a half dozen teens for that oh-so-special prom night.  But trust me, this ride is meant to be appreciated by adults, preferably those who have a lot of driving experience.

The Yukon XL Denali's extreme size and weight require concentration.  Yes, you can easily stray outside the lines on an uphill/downhill run in the Sierra Nevada.  So, right away, getting behind the wheel prompts you to sit straight up, concentrate and keep those hands in the 10 and 2 positions on the steering wheel.

Once you've done that, enjoy, because the tester glided easily over paved surfaces of all stripes.  My run in the Sierra Nevada was a pleasure and a breeze. That 6.2-liter V-8 engine with 420 horsepower made some noise during the journey, but the muscular response of the vehicle was a sensory-pleasing tonic.

Please note that the Yukon XL Denali is equipped with the full suite of off-road and towing perks to make those chores easier.  Fuel economy, however, is not so hot at 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.

I consider myself spoiled by the number of test vehicles I receive that are opulently loaded up with features.  Even so, the staggering list of goodies on the tested Yukon made my head swim.

Among the standouts were perforated leather front seats with heat and ventilation, second row heated bucket seats with power release, power heated exterior mirrors, a head-up display and remote vehicle start.

With all this and the kitchen sink thrown in for good measure, the bottom line on my tester was a whopping $82,190.  Go ahead, take some deep breaths. OK now?

Oh yes, that's a steep price to pay, but consider that you're investing in something resembling a rolling luxury home.  I've lived in apartments that didn't come close to matching the domestic charms poured into this Yukon XL Denali.

And I know some folks who own this model.  Not surprisingly, owners of these stretched out Yukon Denalis tend to own them for a long time.  Good idea, I say.

With this much vehicle stuffed with so much for driver and passengers to enjoy and treasure over the long haul, this Yukon stacks up as a blue-chip investment.