2011 GMC Yukon Denali

The 2011 Yukon is GMC's full-size SUV, the one you cross-shop with the Tahoe and Expedition when you need three rows and serious towing. It drives with the solid, planted feel you want from a big SUV, and the steering is direct enough that it never feels like a handful around town. Inside, the cabin is roomy and quiet, with comfortable seats and a third row that folds flat when you need cargo space. Owners love the durable seats and controls, the smooth ride, and the way it swallows people and gear without complaint. The Denali picks up a stronger 6.2L V8 and unique exterior styling over the SLT, plus standard heated and cooled front seats and a Bose audio system. With 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque from the 6.2L V8, it's genuinely quick for a full-size SUV, even if the EPA rating of 16 mpg combined reminds you it's no compact car. Standard 20-inch wheels and a stiffer suspension tune give it a firmer ride than lesser Yukons, which is the tradeoff for how flat it stays in corners.