GMC Yukon

This full-sized SUV's virtues include its impressive trailer-towing capability and smooth, quiet ride. All three V8 engines feel strong, and the automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Two-wheel-drive models are available with traction control, while four-wheel-drive models have a selectable system with a low range. Handling is commendable for a vehicle of this size. The cabin is quiet, and an available third-row seat stretches passenger capacity to eight or nine (with front buckets or a front bench, respectively). Depending on the point of sale, the 5.3-liter engine now either meets Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV) standards or can use cleaner-burning ethanol-content fuels. The top-priced Denali model offers a 6.0-liter V8, full-time AWD, active suspension damping, and a long list of luxury features, making it an alternative to the Cadillac Escalade.