2022 GMC Yukon vs 2021 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban presented a bold and polarizing front-end design, inspired by the Camaro's styling stretched over the SUV's massive frame. This look included small headlights and large, busy grilles, which received mixed reception. The interior, however, remained largely unchanged compared to previous models. The controls were familiar and logically placed, with redundant options to the touchscreen which was framed by a chrome strip that unfortunately sometimes reflected sunlight directly into the driver’s eyes. The Suburban came in various trims: LS, LT, Z71, RST, Premier, and the High Country, which offered varying levels of luxury and functionality.

Comparatively, the 2022 GMC Yukon distinguished itself with extensive chrome elements. Even the base SLE model had premium chrome detailing, and the Denali trim took it to another level with a massive chrome grille that resembled an industrial cheese grater, flanked by C-shaped headlights. The result was a commanding presence. The AT4 trim had its unique styling with less chrome, featuring a dark grille, skid plates, and red recovery hooks for a more rugged look. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious cabin with plenty of room, premium leather seats on most trims, and unique interior designs exclusive to the Denali, creating a layered and textured premium feel.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine choices to suit different needs. The base engine was a 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 8,300 pounds when equipped with the Max Trailering package. A powerful 6.2-liter V8 was available, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The standout option was the 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel, generating 277 horsepower and an impressive 460 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with either RWD or 4WD available. The handling revealed the Suburban’s truck-based roots, providing a compliant ride thanks to the new independent rear suspension while maintaining some truck-like characteristics over bumps.

The 2022 GMC Yukon likewise featured three engine choices. Most trims came with the 5.3-liter V8, producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the Denali trim sported the robust 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The new 3.0-liter Baby Duramax turbodiesel, producing 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was available across most trims but not the off-road-centric AT4. The Yukon's maximum towing capacity was 8,400 pounds with the correct setup. The ride quality benefited from the new independent rear suspension and the optional air ride adaptive suspension, providing a composed experience over various surfaces, although occasional bouncing was noted on rutted pavement.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering a massive 144.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded. With the second row in use, it still offered a generous 93.8 cubic feet, and 41.5 cubic feet behind the third-row seats. Passenger space was ample, especially for second-row occupants, thanks to the spacious captain's chairs. The control layout was familiar but featured a less intuitive button shifter and a power-sliding center console, which seemed unnecessary.

The 2022 GMC Yukon improved significantly with the redesign, particularly in third-row space, now offering 34.9 inches of legroom, up from the previous 24.8 inches. Cargo capacity also increased to 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, with further growth due to a five-inch wheelbase stretch and an added six inches of length. Second-row seats folded flat or tumbled forward for easier access to the third row, aided by power-folding options. The Yukon's versatile power-sliding center console provided additional hidden storage and convenience, although running boards had the usual issue of getting dirty in the rain.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban's technology was headlined by a 10.2-inch touchscreen featuring GM’s easy-to-use infotainment system. It came with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system, an optional rear entertainment system with large touchscreens, and a useful head-up display.

The 2022 GMC Yukon also impressed with technology. It featured a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center, a massive 15-inch head-up display, and a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-In. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, alongside a Bose 14-speaker audio system and an extensive rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens compatible with multiple media formats.

Safety was a strong suit for the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, which came with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance, automatic high beams, and rear parking sensors. The Teen Driver system allowed setting speed and volume limits for secondary drivers. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view monitor camera system. Unique optional features like the rear-view camera mirror and Safety Alert Seat enhanced its safety profile.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with the Pro Safety suite as standard, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. The Safety Alert Seat and an adjustable rear camera mirror provided additional safety measures, and the vehicle achieved a four out of five stars overall rating from NHTSA. However, it had not yet been tested by IIHS.