General Motors Special Vehicles (GMSV) announced it will import GMC’s facelifted 2025 Yukon large SUV to Australia, where it will be locally converted from left- to right-hand drive.
Pricing has not been announced for the eight-seat SUV, but expect the 5.3-metre long 6.2-litre V8-powered Toyota LandCruiser beater to command a pretty penny.
GMSV has not finalised the specification for Australia but the V8-powered high-end Denali trim is what we’re expecting to arrive. It is likely to cost $150,000 or more.
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The body-on-frame Yukon is closely related to the Chevrolet Tahoe though has a more luxurious spin on the inside. This facelift is based on the fifth-gen Tahoe that launched in the United States in 2021 — as for why no Tahoe despite the Silverado, Corvette and Camaro’s local recognition, GM says the GMC has greater sway as a brand name.
The last GMC model sold here was the rebadged Holden Acadia, with that model having been replaced last year in the States.
The Yukon’s GM-built 6.2-litre all-alloy ‘EcoTec3’ overhead-valve, naturally aspirated V8 petrol outputs 313kW and 624Nm with a 10-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels. Other markets get the option of a ‘Duramax’ turbo-diesel but that’s been ruled out for Australia.
Outside, there are changes to the sheet metal and lighting features, with the Denali Ultimate wearing huge 24-inch eight-spoke alloy wheels.
The high-spec trim gets a 16.8-inch touchscreen inside, 8.0-inch rear touchcscreen, 16-way power adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, optional second row captains chairs, wood trim, leather-accented interior and an 18-speaker Bose sound system.
An AT4 off-road focused grade is not confirmed for Australia but gets smaller 20-inch alloys and all-terrain tyres, air suspension that can raise up to 50mm, leather upholstery and different trim accents.
The Yukon is certified to tow up to 3800kg in the US, so it should hit Australia’s expected 3500kg braked towing capacity just fine. A host of features, including trailer reverse assist, blind-zone assist, jackknife alert and more make it easier to tow as well.
The first Yukons will go on sale locally in the first half of 2025 and will be converted to right-hand drive by Walkinshaw after being built in GMC’s Arlington, Texas plant.
Australia is not the only global market GMC has in its sights. The Middle East — where V8 Nissan Patrols dominate — is also a key expansion zone; GMC sells the Canyon mid-size ute and epic Hummer electric car there. Mexico and Korea are other key non-North American growth opportunities.
There are more new products in the pipeline but General Motors remains coy about future products coming to Australia.
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