General Motors has finally added the 2-Mode Hybrid powertrain to its top-level GMC Yukon Denali. There aren’t any mechanical changes to the drivetrain that’s been available since 2008 in the standard-grade Yukon Hybrid and its platform mates, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, which means we’ll see a 6.0-liter Vortec V8 engine with 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque and up to a 6,200-pound towing capacity.
The hybrid technology is mostly contained in the 2-Mode Electrically Variable Transmission, which features twin electric motors powered by a 300-volt nickel metal hydride battery pack. Expect EPA fuel economy ratings of 21 city, 22 highway for two-wheel drive models and 20/20 when equipped with 4WD.
As far as mechanical changes go, the Denali Hybrid will bring the first application of GM’s MagnaRide suspension system to the Yukon. As you’d expect in a top-level SUV, the Denali Hybrid will come fully loaded straight from the factory – the only three options will be a sunroof, rear-seat entertainment DVD system and side blind zone alert mirrors.
