Hey guys, we're considering selling the wife's G8 and getting her a Tahoe or Yukon this year, need something bigger now that we have a kiddo and 2 dogs to cart around. I haven't kept up with the GMT900 gassers....can someone fill me in on different years, options, changes, etc? From the little bit I've researched so far, it seems like they made some option changes in 09 that we'd probably want (bluetooth, etc). Is the 6.0 an option in either truck, or do we have to go to the Denali package to get it? Anyone driven both and have any comments on the difference between the 5.3 and the 6.0?

 

I think the 09 is the only year they had the 6.2 engine option for the tahoe. I believe the 09+ has the 6sp transmission too, but it could be 08+.

In for more input, considering NNBS tahoe as well...

 

My wife has a 2012 Tahoe and the 6.0L was an option in the hybrid model and the 6.2L was only available in the Denali. Suburban gets different options.

However, 5.3L with a MIT and tune isn't bad. With the VVT reduced, torque and throttle response down low is up and still getting about 21 mpg at 75 mph. I'm going to lower it down though...way to high from the factory. Definitely go with the Tow package if you can find one with it as it has the 3.42 gears and not the 3.08s.

 

Thanks for the feedback guys. Wife's truck will remain completely stock, I'm not up for having more than 1 toy

Sounds like we'll want the 09+ for sure...

 

I think 2011 is when they added the USB in the console. Seems minor but I loved having my ipod interfaced and hidden away in my Silverado instead of an aux wire running out of the dash.

The Yukon Denalis/Escalades are the only SUVs that got the 6.2 and they are still bringing a premium used. Doubt the wife will care... not worth an extra 5-6k if you're not going to mod it.

As for the drivetrain, look for a 6 spd/3.42 like mentioned. A 4L60E with a 3.08 is a dog, they're not lightweights. I'll be looking to replace my other half's Trailblazer in a couple years and hope to get a 2011 and up Tahoe.

 

The 2011 + bluetooth is also a little better than the 2009-2010 bluetooth. Also, 2012+ Nav is better than 2007-2011. Ours is a 5.3 with 6 speed and 3.42s and it isn't too bad but I wish I had a little more power. Look out for a cracked dash.

 

My 2010 Hybrid has the 6.0 and USB/Bluetooth. A few options that the hybrid don't have are memory seats, full power seats(only bottom has power), power lift gate, a place for a spare tire, and no tow haul. I'm not 100% positive but I think hybrids only come with 2nd row bench, which means no power fold seats as well.

 

Hmm....I'd love to get her a 2011+, my Silverado is a 2011 and I love having the bluetooth and USB input. It will depend on what kind of deal I can find though, we aren't really interested in spending $40k+ on a truck. I'd like to be under $30k but from the little bit of searching I've done that doesn't seem real reasonable. I think we could probably do $35k but that's about the upper limit.

 

Ahhh this would be perfect! I'll have to bookmark this and see if they still have it in a week when we get to Phoenix.

2011 GMC Yukon Denali

 

Put a deposit down on the 2011 I linked to above yesterday...wifey is super excited We pick it up next Monday.