The 2009 GMC Yukon XL 2WD doesn't display many changes from the last couple of years, having its last refresh in the 2007 model year. The Yukon XL is first cousin to the Chevrolet Suburban and, like the suburban, traces its history from the old Chevrolet Suburban Carryall. Domestic competition includes the Cadillac Escalade, Ford Expedition, Jeep Commander, Lincoln Navigator and Chrysler Aspen. Foreign challengers include Nissan Armada, Infiniti QX56 and the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.

Pluses for the Yukon XL include a cargo space of 45.8 cubic feet, maximum payload of almost 1,600 pounds, headroom and price. The major weakness is a towing capacity of only 5,100 pounds, well under class average. On the other hand, towing with the three-quarter ton is above the class average, at over nine thousand pounds. However, with the three-quarter ton the turn radius suffers.

Yukon XL is available in either half ton or three-quarter ton, each in SLE or SLT, the latter of course getting more standard and optional features, but at a higher price. The half ton is pushed by a 310 horsepower 5.3 liter V8 engine. The three-quarter ton gets a 352 horsepower 6.0 liter V8. Both are matched to a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. Fuel efficiency for the half ton is 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 miles per gallon on the highway. Highway mileage is one mile per gallon less with the three-quarter ton.

NHTSA ratings are good, with a somewhat predictable three-star rating for rollover, but five-star ratings everywhere else. Standard safety features include child safety door locks, vehicle anti-theft system, locking differential, antilock brakes, traction control, vehicle stability control, tire pressure monitor and airbags everywhere. Also available is the optional electronic parking aid.

Some of the nicer standard features include automatic headlights, running board, separate A/C controls, leather covered tilt wheel with mounted controls, trip computer, CD player, hands free system, OnStar, second row folding seat and removable third row seat. Optional goodies include CD Changer, DVD player, Navigation system, subwoofer, power adjustable heated and cooled front seats with memory and power lumbar support and sunroof.

The fact is that reviewers rate the 2009 GM Yukon XL 2wd about average for its class. That wouldn't seem good until you realize that only the cousin Suburban comes anywhere near both the base price of $39,905 and the load capacity. If you're looking for size, comfort and power, with all the best features in an SUV, the Yukon XL is a good place to look.