Eight-Speed GMC Yukon

GM adds eight-speed automatic to GMC Yukon Denali

The GMC Yukon Denali lineup gains GM's 8L90 automatic transmission for 2015.

Following in the footsteps of its Chevrolet and Cadillac counterparts, the GMC Yukon Denali has gained an eight-speed automatic for 2015.

The new automatic transmission, known as the 8L90, is shared with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, Cadillac Escalade and the base GMC Yukon, as well as the Chevrolet Silverado and Sierra pickups.

Compared to the outgoing six-speed automatic, GM says wider gearing and a 3.23:1 rear axle ratio helps reduce fuel consumption. Paired to the 6.2-litre V8, two-wheel-drive Yukon Denali models are rated at 22 miles per gallon, while four-wheel-drive variants are a tick higher at 21.

Tow ratings remain identical compared to the outgoing six-speed automatic. The Yukon Denali can pull up to 8,400 pounds, while the larger Denali XL tows 8,100 pounds. For 2015, the Yukon Denali and Denali XL models also gain wireless cell phone charging capability inside, as well as wireless 4G network connectivity that turns the SUV in to a rolling WiFi hotspot.