2021 GMC Yukon vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 GMC Yukon was positioned as a premium-grade SUV, bridging the gap between Chevrolet and Cadillac. It offered a rugged yet refined aesthetic, distinct from Buick's softer approach. The redesigned Yukon, available in various trims including the new AT4 for off-road enthusiasts, was priced starting at $50,700. The Denali trim, known for its upscale features, showcased a unique dashboard design, real wood trim, and leather-wrapped panels. Despite its high price, the Yukon Denali was praised for its sophisticated appearance, especially with the Denali Ultimate package, which included a panoramic sunroof and 22-inch wheels.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a bold design with a blunt nose and floating roof effect. Its styling was initially polarizing but expected to become familiar over time. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum trims, with prices ranging from $38,410 to $48,365. The Limited trim, evaluated in the review, featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a two-tone interior. While the cabin was generally upscale, some details, like the instrument-panel shroud, felt cheap. The Highlander Hybrid's design aimed to balance distinctiveness with practicality.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine. This engine, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, provided robust acceleration but lacked fuel efficiency, averaging 14.4 mpg on a testing loop. The Yukon’s new independent rear suspension and optional Four-Corner Air Ride suspension improved ride quality, though the 22-inch wheels could make the ride harsh. The Active Response 4WD system enhanced cornering and traction, making the Yukon capable on various terrains. However, its towing capacity was slightly less than its predecessor and competitors.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid switched to a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 243 horsepower. It offered improved fuel efficiency, averaging 31.7 mpg, though it fell short of its EPA rating. The hybrid system provided adequate power but was noisy under strain. The Highlander Hybrid’s steering was lifeless, and its ride was soft, leading to unwanted body movement. While it handled well on smooth roads, it struggled on uneven surfaces. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in urban environments with its electric motor torque and quiet freeway cruising, but it was not enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from an independent rear suspension, enhancing passenger and cargo space. The Denali trim featured leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sliding console. The second-row seats improved comfort and access to the third row, which now offered better support and space for adults. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 122.9 cubic feet available in the standard Yukon and 144.7 cubic feet in the Denali XL.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited provided comfortable front seats with leather upholstery and heating/ventilation features. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Storage was adequate but less generous than before, with a smaller dashboard shelf and a wireless charger blocking the center storage bin. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Ultimate Package added a navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose audio system, and a Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays. The rear entertainment system was advanced but had connectivity issues. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch head-up display and multiple camera views for easier maneuverability.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with standard Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Limited trim included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. The JBL sound system was powerful but lacked clarity. Toyota’s Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror provided a clear view behind the vehicle.

The 2021 GMC Yukon included advanced driving assistance systems like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim added adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The ADAS operated smoothly, making driving more comfortable. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon’s size offered inherent safety.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The adaptive cruise control was occasionally uneven, and lane-centering assistance was overly sensitive. The Highlander received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and was expected to achieve a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS.