The 2022 GMC Yukon Denali is the most popular of the Yukon SUV models, and there’s a very good reason for that. The Denali is the most luxurious trim level of both the Yukon and the Yukon XL. If you’re buying a Yukon instead of the Suburban, which shares the Yukon platform, it’s likely that you’re willing to pay for the luxury touches. Here’s what you’ll get in the Yukon Denali, how much it will cost you, and why it’s totally worth it.

How much is the 2022 GMC Yukon Denali?

The 2022 GMC Yukon Denali price starts at $71,195 and the Yukon XL Denali price starts at $73,895. It’s a considerable amount of money, but both Yukon Denalis are worth the money – as far as luxury goes. Edmunds notes that “Similarly priced big SUVs from Mercedes and BMW are more refined and fuel-efficient.”

The 2022 GMC Yukon Denali comes with a 6.2-liter V8 engine and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. That’s not bad for a massive SUV. However, Edmunds says that “the 10-speed automatic transmission, though smooth and pleasant enough in everyday driving, takes a few beats to shift into a lower gear when you put your foot down. We also noticed that the transmission treats pushes of manual gear selector buttons more like suggestions than commands.”

The Denali has features you won’t find on lower trim levels

One of the benefits of paying for the Denali is that there are features available that you can’t get on lower trim levels. One of these is adaptive cruise control. The Denali also has features like plenty of USB ports and a wireless charging pad that make it easy to travel with your whole family – and all their devices.

Another benefit of the Yukon Denali when compared to similarly-sized luxury SUVs is that it can tow a whole lot. The 2022 GMC Yukon can tow 7,500 to 7,900 pounds, while the Yukon XL can tow 7,400 to 7,800 pounds.

The GMC Yukon Denali comes with packages that add on some luxury features

If you’re already paying big bucks for the GMC Yukon Denali, you might be interested in some of the packages that are available on the Yukon. You can add on the Denali Reserve Package, which includes power-retractable steps, a panoramic sunroof, and everything from the Max Trailering Package.

That price also includes a Cargo Convenience Package with a collapsible cargo area container and retractable cargo shade. The illumination package adds on illuminated GMC emblems and the Interior Protection Package includes accessories like mats. It also includes 22-inch multi-spoke chrome wheels, an engine block heater, and a piston brake upgrade. You can also add on a performance exhaust system. There’s also a rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2022 GMC Yukon Denali offers a lot of luxury to a very capable and large SUV. Is it as nice as some other luxury vehicles, like BMW and Mercedes’ large SUVs? No. And yet those SUVs can’t do what the Yukon can, namely tow a whole heck of a lot in an SUV that has a rugged appeal you won’t find in those other vehicles. There’s a reason that people are willing to pay the extra money for the GMC Yukon Denali, and if it’s a nice and rugged SUV you’re looking for, it’s worth it.