Both the Chevy Tahoe and the GMC Yukon have the same parent company and the same powertrain, but are they really the exact same SUV? In fact, the Yukon and Tahoe should be viewed more like siblings rather than twins.

The most recent models of these GM SUVs each have some different designs and features, which is different from the past when they were essentially the same vehicle. Let’s take a closer look.

Identical In Size and Platform

GM’s new T1 truck platform is the base for both the Chevy Tahoe and the GMC Yukon. Both SUVs are larger than previous models on the outside and on the inside. The wheelbase increase is five inches to 120.9 from 116. This means more interior space and legroom. The cargo room also increased to 122.9 cubic feet from the previous 94.7. One of the reasons that cargo space and interior passenger room were increased by so much is due to GM switching to an independent rear suspension. That adds space as well as improves handling and ride quality.

The Same Engine Options

Three engine choices are available on both SUVs, but only one transmission is available in the standard 10-speed automatic. All three engines are plenty powerful to move the Tahoe and Yukon around. The base 5.3-liter V8 makes 355 horsepower, the middle choice, a 6.2-liter V8, makes 420 horsepower, and the third choice is a 3.0-liter inline-six turbo-diesel that makes 277 horsepower.

However, there are some differences in the engine setup of the Yukon and Tahoe. The GMC Yukon has the Active Response 4WD system, which is totally unique to the Yukon and manages traction and power through its electronic limited-slip differential. The eLSD is also used on performance cars like the Corvette and Camaro. This system gives the Yukon an edge over the Tahoe in off-road and slippery situations.

Different Exterior Design Cues

When it comes to the exterior design of the Tahoe and Yukon, it seems clear that GMC employed different designers and kept them apart. The two full-size SUVs are easy to tell apart from the exterior alone. The only similarities are the pillar design and window arrangement, which makes them look similar from the side or looking down from the top. The Tahoe’s grille is wider with different headlight placement and size vs. the Yukon. The Yukon features a more aggressive grille style, and its headlights are wider and take up more space than the Tahoe’s. Going to the rear end of both SUVs, you’ll find that the taillights and liftgates are also quite different.

Comparable Interiors

Inside, you will find that both the Yukon and Tahoe are very similar, except for various model-specific badges, color schemes, and trim materials. The only significant difference is the Yukon Denali model, which features a totally different dashboard setup and more luxury trim materials to help justify its more expensive price.

When it comes to choosing between the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, it mostly depends on your personal preference for one design over the other. The other consideration is if you are looking at the Denali model, which is only available on the Yukon.