The GMC Yukon XL and Chevy Suburban look very similar. They also offer many features, such as three rows of seats, the same GM platform, a standard 5.3-liter EcoTech V8, and towing ability of up to 8,300 pounds depending on equipment. However, there are some differences between the two as well. Price and luxury options are slightly different as the Yukon XL is billed more as a luxury SUV than the Suburban. Let’s take a closer look.

Yukon XL vs. Suburban: What Do They Have In Common?

As mentioned above, the Yukon XL and the Suburban use the same GM platform, so they generally look the same on the outside at first glance. The standard engine for both is the 5.3-liter V8 that makes 335 horsepower. Optional engines for both include the 6.2-liter V8 that makes 420 horsepower and a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel that makes 277 horsepower. With the same engines and the same platform, it’s no surprise that both SUVs can be equipped to tow and haul the same amount.

Similarly, both SUVs get the same gas mileage at 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. They also handle roughly the same with the exact same turning radius. Both SUVs offer up to 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space, depending on the row arrangement.

Yukon XL vs. Suburban: What Are the Differences?

Now, let’s take a look at what exactly makes these two large SUVs different. One of the most obvious differences is the price. The Chevy Suburban has a starting price of around $51,700, while the GMC Yukon XL starts a bit higher at $53,400. The price discrepancy is mainly because the Yukon XL uses more premium materials than the Suburban. The Suburban also offers only three trim levels, while the Yukon XL has four. The top trim is the Yukon XL Denali, and it’s more luxurious than the Premier trim of the Suburban.

Prices on the top trims are also a bit different. The Yukon XL Denali includes the 6.2-liter V8 as a standard option, and it costs about $2,000 more than the Suburban Premier. However, the Suburban Premier does not come with the 6.2-liter engine as a standard option, and adding it makes the Suburban trim cost about $3,525 more than the Denali.

In terms of exterior looks, the two look different from the front. The Suburban has squinty lights, and a standard wider bar look on the grille. The Yukon XL, on the other hand, has a mesh grille style and larger, squarish headlights.

Yukon XL vs. Suburban: Which Model Should You Buy?

Which SUV you choose will likely have a lot to do with your aesthetic preference as the Yukon XL and Suburban both have markedly different front fascias. If you’re looking for the top trim of these two vehicles, you might lean towards the Yukon XL Denali as you can get the most powerful engine standard, and it ultimately costs less than the Suburban with that same option. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to test drive both and see which one you prefer.

Both SUVs are solid choices, though, and if you need to tow and carry a lot of cargo or passengers, it’s hard to beat these big SUVs.