The 2009 GMC Yukon XL 4WD is a carryover from the prior model year, and its presence is more commanding than the Mercury Mountaineer or any other SUV on the market. With two powerful engine choices and impressive towing capabilities, the Yukon XL 4WD is highly customizable and adaptable to almost any terrain. Those that are looking for an extra-large SUV will find that the 2009 GMC Yukon XL is one of the biggest on the road. However, the fuel economy is subpar and will certainly deter some buyers. Inside, this year's Yukon is stocked with amenities, but potential buyers should be aware that many are considered upgrades and will come at an additional cost. While the base price at $42,745 is affordable for some, the overall rate could be significantly higher once personal touches are included.

The interior of the GMC Yukon XL comes with automatic dual-zone climate control, an MP3-compatible stereo system, and the OnStar system. OnStar includes turn-by-turn navigation, instant accident alerts, airbag deployment sensors, and even hands-free calling. However, some consumers could be disappointed that the navigation directions are provided by a live OnStar representative, rather than a digital display built into the dash. With OnStar, Yukon owners can also get recommendations for restaurants and help finding the nearest grocery store or Movie Theater, among other things. Another addition is a three-month trial subscription to XM Radio, a satellite radio that has commercial-free channels and up-to-date weather and traffic reports.

Under the hood, the 2009 Yukon 4WD can be fitted with either a 310 horsepower 5.3L V8 or a 352 horsepower 6.0L V8. All are equipped with standard 4WD, but buyers can pick from a half-ton model or three-quarter-ton version. The 5.3L pick gets only 14 city MPG and 19 highway MPG; however, the 6.0L engine does not come with fuel estimates. Nevertheless, consumers can opt for a flex-fuel version of the lower engine for added fuel efficiency. This could certainly make some buyers turn to an SUV by another maker. Both engines come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The Yukon has a max towing capacity (3/4 ton version) of a massive 9,300-lbs, a number difficult to match for any other SUV on the market.

These, up to nine-passenger, SUV's safety features include a tire pressure monitoring system, dual-stage frontal airbags, and a keyless remote entry system. The tire pressure monitoring system has a digital readout in the instrument cluster. It constantly monitors each tire's pressure and will alert drivers if a tire has too much or too little pressure. Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes are also featured on the Yukon.

In general, the 2009 GMC Yukon XL 4WD is a powerful piece of machinery. But, those that are jumping on the green train will definitely need to investigate another model. Large families will find that the Yukon XL is roomy and adaptable. Those that do not need the space should take a look at a more compact SUV.