Luxury vehicles have an allure that can’t be denied. The materials used to make them are usually a step above other vehicles, and the nameplate alone is enough to draw envious looks from friends. However, they’re also expensive. Many might wonder if a higher trim level on a vehicle like the GMC Yukon Denali is worth purchasing over an expensive luxury rival. 

The name might not carry the same prestige as, say, Cadillac Escalade, but does that really mean it’s less of a vehicle? MotorTrend asked that very question, and here’s the answer.

The GMC Yukon Denali offers plenty of luxury

Even though it’s not a luxury vehicle, the 2021 GMC Yukon Denali looks like one. It comes equipped with a 6.2-liter engine that produces 420 hp. The Yukon Denali also comes with four-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic transmission. 

The Denali is far from the fastest SUV on the road, but it can go from 0 to 60 in an impressive 6.1 seconds. The 14/19/16 mpg gas mileage isn’t great, but poor fuel efficiency isn’t unexpected given the Denali’s size. The third row isn’t built for comfort, but kids probably won’t notice the cramped space.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali comes with plenty of standard features. They include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. 

It also packs plenty of tech. There’s an eight-inch touchscreen, 4G LTE connectivity, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, 10-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround sound, and a head-up display with a larger eight-inch instrument cluster.

The Denali trim brings other perks like 20-inch alloy wheels, HID headlights, wood interior trim, magnetic ride control dampers, additional sound deadening via active noise cancellation, and an integrated trailer brake controller. For extra money, you can get a sunroof, power-retractable side steps, 22-inch alloy wheels, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

How does the GMC Yukon Denali compare to the competition?

With a starting price of $69,695, the 2021 GMC Yukon Denali isn’t cheap. But it costs significantly less than some luxury rivals.

According to MotorTrend, the Cadillac Escalade starts at $77,490. And the Lincoln Navigator costs $77,480. They both cost about $8,000 more than the Yukon Denali. So the question is: Do the two luxury rivals offer enough to justify that price difference?

These three full-size SUVs share many similarities. All offer powerful engines, plenty of room, and the latest tech. So how does the Denali stack up to luxury?

According to MotorTrend, it holds its own spectacularly. Despite its lower MSRP, the Yukon Denali is quicker than the Cadillac Escalade. The GMC also offers enough features to compete with either luxury model, making it a worthy choice.

Is the price worthy of the amenities?

Yes, the Denali holds its own against luxury vehicles. It also costs less, which is always a win. Still, is it worth the lower sticker price?

MotorTrend seems to think so. The Denali offers plenty for the money. Plus, it makes a superior road-trip vehicle thanks to its smooth ride. It may not be perfect, but it’s got enough going for it to justify the $69,695 MSRP.