Baker GMC Hudsonville - Can the 2026 GMC Yukon confidently tow weekend toys around Grandville, MI?
Weekend plans often hinge on whether your SUV can tow with confidence, especially when family gear, boats, or campers are in the mix. The 2026 GMC Yukon is engineered to make towing more predictable and less stressful, combining robust powertrains with advanced visibility and guidance tools you can feel right away on the road.
Start with the available diesel 3.0-liter inline-six, which delivers 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 lb-ft of torque. That low-end torque provides a steady pull when launching a boat, navigating a ramp, or climbing a grade outside town. If you prefer classic acceleration and throttle response, the available 420-hp 6.2-liter V-8 brings brisk power for highway merges and passing. No matter the engine, the 10-speed automatic transmission keeps the Yukon in the right gear, while the chassis and steering provide a planted, predictable feel under load.
- Max ratings overview: The rear-wheel-drive Yukon with the 5.3-liter V-8 is the towing champ on paper, while models equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8 or the diesel 3.0-liter inline-six are close behind.
- 4WD consideration: Opting for four-wheel drive enhances traction and confidence on slick ramps but typically reduces tow ratings slightly.
- Torque advantage: The diesel’s peak torque arrives below 2,000 rpm, helping you pull smoothly from a stop or hold a steady pace uphill.
Where the Yukon truly separates itself is in trailer-focused tech that reduces guesswork. Transparent Trailer View digitally stitches camera feeds to show what’s behind your trailer, so stationary objects remain visible. A jackknife alert adds peace of mind while reversing, letting you know when the trailer angle is getting too tight. Together, these features enhance situational awareness to help you move deliberately and avoid surprises.
- Confirm your trailer weight: Know the loaded weight of your boat or camper to select the ideal engine and drivetrain configuration.
- Balance payload carefully: Distribute cargo and passengers appropriately to maintain stability, especially with third-row seating in use.
- Leverage camera views: Practice switching among camera angles and Transparent Trailer View so they become second nature on the ramp.
- Use a consistent checklist: Verify hitch connection, safety chains, and lighting before each departure and after rest stops.
- Choose your route: Plan fuel and rest stops with trailer-friendly access, and factor in grades or crosswinds on longer drives.
While towing confidence begins with power and chassis tuning, a calm cabin and smart infotainment help you stay focused. The 16.8-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in provides clear navigation and voice control, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility keep messages and music accessible without distraction. Available Bose premium audio turns long hauls into comfortable, quiet trips.
For shoppers who travel between lakes, campsites, and neighborhood errands, the 2026 GMC Yukon offers the right blend of strength and clarity. With Baker Buick GMC Hudsonville guiding your setup and demonstrating trailering tools in person, you can choose the configuration that fits your cargo, your roads, and your weekends. Our team is serving Muskegon, Wyoming, and Grandville with knowledgeable support and a pressure-free experience so you can tow with assurance the first time out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which 2026 GMC Yukon configuration tows the most?
On paper, the rear-wheel-drive Yukon with the 5.3-liter V-8 posts the highest tow rating. Models equipped with the 6.2-liter V-8 or the diesel 3.0-liter inline-six follow closely. If your priority is confident low-rpm pull, the diesel’s 495 lb-ft of torque at low engine speeds is a smart choice for routine towing.
Does four-wheel drive help with boat ramps?
Yes. Four-wheel drive can improve traction on slick, uneven surfaces, which is useful on ramps or unpaved campsites. Note that choosing 4WD typically reduces maximum tow ratings slightly, but many owners find the added traction worth it.
How do the trailer camera systems help?
Transparent Trailer View effectively shows what’s behind your trailer by digitally merging camera feeds, while a jackknife alert warns you when the trailer angle becomes too tight in reverse. These systems help you position your trailer precisely and spot obstacles sooner.
Is there a benefit to the diesel beyond towing?
Beyond its towing torque, the diesel’s relaxed, low-rpm character makes highway travel calm and efficient. The 10-speed automatic complements the engine’s strengths, minimizing busy shifting on rolling terrain and maintaining a steady, quiet cruise.
With the right configuration and a few practice passes using the camera views, the Yukon proves it can handle weekend toys without compromise. If you’d like a tailored walk-through and towing demo, Baker Buick GMC Hudsonville will help you set everything up for a smooth first trip.