2021 GMC Yukon vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's commitment to offering a premium-grade vehicle that balanced ruggedness with refinement. Positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac, the Yukon was available in various trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali, with the latter being the most upscale. The Denali trim featured exclusive design elements such as a unique dashboard, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels, setting it apart from its siblings and competitors. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, exuded a sense of luxury and sophistication, making it a standout choice for those who valued substance over a flashy badge.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 was a quintessential representation of BMW's high-quality craftsmanship. The X5's design was unmistakably BMW, with its signature kidney grille and sporty proportions. The SUV offered a range of trims, including the xLine and M Sport, each with distinct styling cues. The interior, while sharing many elements with other BMW models, was well-appointed with leather and soft-touch materials. The M Sport models featured unique styling elements, such as an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim strips, enhancing the sporty appeal of the X5. Despite its luxurious appointments, the X5's design could sometimes blend in with other BMWs, making it less distinctive in a crowded parking lot.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered a range of engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 6.2-litre V8 engine that delivered 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided robust acceleration and a satisfying V8 burble at idle. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with the Denali averaging 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon also featured an independent rear suspension and an available Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, improving ride quality and handling. The Active Response 4WD system, with its electronic limited-slip differential and Traction Select driving modes, enhanced the Yukon's cornering performance and traction.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a variety of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model featured a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M50i, with its twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8, delivered an impressive 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The X5 M took performance to another level with 600 horsepower, increasing to 617 with the Competition Package. The new xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model offered 389 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of up to 50 kilometres. While the X5's power made it capable, its steering dynamics were less engaging than expected, particularly at higher speeds.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console for added convenience. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and collapse to fold flat, enhancing comfort and cargo room. The third-row seat offered improved thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was generous, with up to 3,480 litres of space available with the seats folded.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with comfortable seating for short trips. The front seats, while heated, could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats were spacious enough for two adults, and an optional third row was available. The X5's split liftgate, with full power functionality, made loading cargo easy, and the vehicle height adjustment button was particularly useful. The xDrive45e model offered slightly less cargo space due to its battery, but the difference was minimal for most buyers.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, especially with the Ultimate Package, offered a comprehensive infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system included a 14-speaker Bose audio system, though its performance was underwhelming for the SUV's price point. The Rear Seat Media system, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers, though it required some trial and error to stream content. Additional technology included a 15-inch head-up display and multiple camera views for improved maneuverability.

The 2021 BMW X5 featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a 10-speaker sound system, navigation, and a digital gauge cluster. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins system. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was intuitive once familiar. The X5's technology suite was comprehensive, offering a range of features to enhance the driving experience.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came equipped with a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered additional features such as adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The ADAS systems operated smoothly, providing a reassuring driving experience. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial curb weight offered a sense of security.

The 2021 BMW X5 also featured a comprehensive list of safety and driver assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had some issues, particularly with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control in certain conditions. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS, though it had several recalls. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall safety rating.