2025 GMC Yukon AT4: Off-Road Luxury with a Modern Edge

The 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 isn't your average full-size SUV. It blends rugged capability with luxurious comfort, making it a compelling choice for those who crave adventure without sacrificing refinement. We spent a week traversing city streets, highways, and even some light off-road trails to see if the Yukon AT4 lives up to its adventurous spirit.

Built to Conquer Any Terrain

The AT4 designation signifies off-road prowess, and the 2025 Yukon lives up to the name.  While not a rock crawler, it boasts features that elevate its capability beyond the pavement.

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: The confidence of a standard four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case allows you to tackle loose gravel, snowy roads, and light trails with ease.
• Enhanced Suspension: A standard off-road suspension with increased ground clearance provides better articulation and protects the undercarriage from obstacles. Skid plates offer additional peace of mind while venturing off the beaten path.
• All-Terrain Tires: These aggressive tires offer superior grip on loose surfaces and enhance off-road traction.
• Drive Modes: The selectable drive modes allow you to tailor the vehicle's performance to the terrain. Choose from "Tour" for everyday driving, "Sport" for a more responsive feel, and "Off-Road" for optimized traction on challenging surfaces.

Powertrain: Muscle for Any Adventure

The 2025 Yukon AT4 offers two engine options:

• The standard 5.3L V8: This tried-and-tested engine delivers ample power (around 355 horsepower) for daily commutes and highway cruising. It's mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission.
• Optional 3.0L Duramax Diesel: For those who prioritize towing or off-road capability, the optional Duramax diesel is a compelling choice. This engine boasts significant torque (around 495 lb-ft) for pulling heavy loads and navigating steep inclines.

Fuel Economy: A Balancing Act

Fuel efficiency isn't necessarily the AT4's strong suit. With the standard V8, expect EPA ratings around 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. The optional diesel offers slightly better figures, with estimates around 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. However, these figures are respectable for a full-size off-road-oriented SUV.

Interior: Rugged Refinement

The Yukon AT4's interior walks a fine line between ruggedness and refinement. The seats are upholstered in a water-resistant material ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Contrasting stitching and available two-tone leather options add a touch of luxury.

The redesigned cabin for 2025 boasts a modern and user-friendly layout. A large 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen dominates the center console, offering a wide range of features including navigation, connectivity, and a premium Bose sound system. A digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel provides all the essential driving information in a crisp and clear display.

While spacious overall, the third-row seating is best suited for children or occasional short trips. Cargo capacity is decent but might feel limiting for those who need to haul large equipment regularly.

Technology for Adventure

The 2025 Yukon AT4 comes packed with technology that enhances both on-road and off-road experiences:

• 360-degree Camera System: This provides a birds-eye view of your surroundings, making tight maneuvering and navigating off-road obstacles easier.
• Head-Up Display: Keep your eyes on the road with vital information like speed and navigation projected onto the windshield.
• Off-Road Apps: Monitor key off-road metrics such as pitch, roll, and incline with the available off-road apps.
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems: A suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring provides peace of mind on the road.

Verdict: A Capable Companion for Adventure

The 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 isn't just another oversized SUV. It's a capable off-road companion that offers a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. While fuel economy might not be its forte, the available engine options provide ample power for any adventure. The modern and tech-laden interior keeps you connected and comfortable, while the off-road features give you the confidence to explore beyond the pavement.

Living Large: Everyday Usability

While the AT4 boasts off-road prowess, it's also designed for daily use. Here's a look at some practical considerations:

• Size Matters: This is a full-size SUV. Parking can be a challenge in tight spaces, and navigating narrow city streets might require some extra caution.
• Maneuverability: Despite its size, the Yukon offers surprisingly good maneuverability for its class. The standard parking sensors and available surround-view camera system aid in tight spots.
• Comfort on the Go: The comfortable seats and spacious cabin make long road trips a breeze. The GMC signature smooth ride quality ensures a relaxing journey for all passengers.
• Tech for Convenience: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allow seamless smartphone connectivity. The available Wi-Fi hotspot keeps passengers connected on the go.
• Towing Capacity: The Yukon AT4 boasts a towing capacity of up to 8,100 pounds with the V8 engine and a staggering 9,500 pounds with the optional diesel. This makes it a capable choice for hauling trailers, boats, or campers.

Total Cost of Ownership

The 2025 Yukon AT4 isn't a budget-friendly vehicle. While official pricing hasn't been revealed yet, expect it to start around $65,000 for the base model and climb significantly with additional options. Fuel costs will also be a consideration, especially with the V8 engine. However, the Yukon offers excellent resale value, mitigating some of the initial cost concerns.

The GMC Ownership Experience

GMC dealerships provide a premium ownership experience. Scheduled maintenance packages, roadside assistance, and access to exclusive events add value to the ownership proposition. However, these benefits come at a premium cost compared to some mainstream brands.

The Final Trail

The 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 is a compelling choice for those who crave adventure without sacrificing comfort and luxury. It offers a unique blend of off-road capability, a spacious and tech-laden interior, and powerful engine options. While its size and fuel economy might not be ideal for everyone, the AT4 stands out as a capable and luxurious companion for exploring new horizons.