Is the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali a BETTER luxury SUV than a Cadillac Escalade?

The Yukon Denali 25th Anniversary Edition is here and GMC is bringing BIG changes for 2025. On the outside you will find 24in wheels, 6-piston BREMBO brakes and black accents. On the inside you will be greeted to a full leather interior. Under the hood is a 6.2L V8 producing 420HP & mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali a BETTER luxury SUV than a Cadillac Escalade?
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videography: Lori Raiti 🎥

[@omarcortes5754]

I bought the 24 Yukon Denali Ultimate not knowing the 25 was going to be a refresh. These new ones are even prettier.

[@RaitisRides]

You still have a keeper

[@norriscreary]

Got that right ✅️. It's on my preffered list in the New Year 🎉🎉

[@tonywush]

No need to regret. Powertrain are the same. You can also buy a 70' TV at Costco for less than $500. Beats MY25 Escalade anyway.

[@dynamicremakes5592]

I didn’t think anyone would be dumb enough to buy the denial ultimate I guess i was wrong😂😂😅

[@dylenrobertsj3417]

The dealership was definitely not about to tell you that 25 was coming out fairly soon. They wanted to make a sale!! Lol

[@transitrider77]

This is a full size SUV I would actually consider....if I could afford it.

[@RaitisRides]

Maybe one day!

[@SergeantMassonFan]

You Will Afford It One Day

[@SME5724]

I’m a more of a Japanese fanboy … but i don’t think there is a Generation of the Yukon or Tahoe I didn’t love

[@RaitisRides]

I am right there with you!

[@juliew8687]

Hope your going to show us the Elevation trim next, hopefully a little more affordable

[@RaitisRides]

Of definitely! Stay tuned

[@davonne225]

those wheels are sick. Interior is on point for sure. Love the beefy arm rests too. Great that they give you 3 different menu options. GMC is bringing it for sure.

[@joe_smalls]

Nice!! I hope the 25th anniversary also comes in black and not just limited to white.

[@Icehawks7]

It’s GM of course the special anniversary edition only comes in the coveted paint color of Work Truck White.

[@JayWerx]

It’s like a Yukon Denali RST with the styling. Just gorgeous.

[@RaitisRides]

They nailed this one all day long!

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

2024 GMC Yukon Denali: Sharp 2024 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate: Sharper 2025 GMC Yukon Denali: Even Sharper 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate: SHARPEST OF ALL

[@RaitisRides]

I like what you did there Chris!

[@waynewallace2061]

This looks nice in white with those red calipers.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you

[@leir2005]

This is bad you know what man! Love the refresh, love the blacked out wheels. If I had $100K to spare it’d be a real tossup between this and the Escalade!

[@RaitisRides]

I know how you feel!

[@derekgaliee4351]

I rather this than Escalade. I like this & Lincoln Navigator. If I got this I opt Diesel powered engine

[@Emilyandbridget]

Hey Joe, the 2025 Yukon Denali will mark GMC's entry into Australia for the for first time by GMSV a subsidiary of GM. It will be reengineered to right hand drive by Walkinshaw in Melbourne Victoria, alongside the Chevrolet Silverado, Tundra and Ram. Walkinshaw used to produce muscle cars under the brand HSV (Holden Special Vehicles). Love your work!

[@hawk2328]

The engines suck

[@kennethprime90]

raiti you're becoming my favorite car reviewer, great information and for things like @7:30 lmao

[@RaitisRides]

That really means so much! Thank you for letting me share the laughs and the SUVs with you!

[@theaerolife]

Joe how do you like this tablet style touchscreen vs the new wider one in the Tahoe/Suburban?

[@RaitisRides]

I prefer this screen

[@LukeThomas1]

Hey Rati! You should start doing comparing videos! I would love to see this compared to a Wagoneer III. Also, I'm not sure i like that vertical infotainment. I like the more of a wagoneer style a little popped out, but still horizontal.

[@Ram_Jr_Maldonado]

I always wait for your car reviews, they're so fun to watch!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for your awesome support!

[@tofast4ualll]

This exterior with the Tahoe High Country Interior. Thanks for the review. ❤

[@G-Rated]

As soon as I took delivery I’d get my exterior paint protection applied I’d also have one applied to all the gloss black in the interior to preserve its finish over the years as well. Small investment but will definitely help with resale value of a truck that already does a good job of holding its value. The fee would be minuscule due to the amount of gloss black found inside, it ain’t much.

[@josephcorreia2168]

Definitely waiting for the 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate after your recent review of it. Definitely the best luxury SUV! Thanks Joe and team.

[@RaitisRides]

I feel the same way

[@stevencain8936]

Love your reviews as always Joe, but next time perhaps pop the hood so we could see what kind of power we got under there

[@performingspecs7841]

Liking the updates, especially the interior.

[@adamwestbrook4154]

We drive a Denali Yukon now; I just can't get over the vertical screen on the update. Was also disappointed to hear that the diesel option would be later in 2025. Don't know if we can wait that long so very disappointed in both of those things.

[@JimEllis-i5k]

Joe this is obviously your busiest time of the year with all the new models coming out. How many miles do you think that you travel annually going to all the auto shows and reveals??

[@lorieandpatrickdavies7483]

When the 2021+ platform was introduced, the only one I liked was the Tahoe. The styling of the other two just didn't work for me. With the 2025 refresh, I'm starting to warm up to the Yukon and Escalade. Enough to switch out of my much loved 2016 Yukon Denali? Dunno. Those wheels are gorgeous, and would look even better with a machined lip to contrast the black. I'd probably order it in the Crystal Red, I've owned three Summit White Yukons, its about time for a change.

[@kenwright149]

Real toss-up between this and the Cadi, that tablet in the center isn't as elegant as the Escalade elongated display. Damn nice ride, and time for mama to get a new set of wheels, will check out the 2025. Great review Raiti!

[@shillyar]

id like the anniversary addition with the diesal

[@jasonthrash4357]

This one is really up my alley! I have always went with GMC over Chevy but both have those naturally aspirated V8 choices. Hope you and Lori are enjoying yourselves 😊

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you my friend! We are working hard but definitely are

[@buddyboy4438]

GMC is the luxurious Chevy . Then comes the big daddy .. Cadillac is Cadillac 😎😎

[@sab0024]

Very nice, only thing is the size tire. Needs a bigger side wall tire. To small I’m scared driving that thing and accidentally going over a pot hole. That rim probably get bent with that tire on.

[@davidp2888]

Those styling cues are subtle but make a huge difference.

[@RaitisRides]

You are spot on the money

[@robberes6799]

My wife loves her 24 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate . There is no way to fit a Yukon and 24 Colorado Trail Boss in our garage 😂 The new Acadia is just as luxurious as the Yukon, but we don’t spend $300 on a 10 quart oil change, like I did on the Camaro I traded for the Colorado .

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great overall experienece

[@dejonbuick6070]

Wow,Joe this is a great looking SUV , you Did a good review also, and I think this will out sale the 2025 escalade, what do you think my friend.😊😊😊

[@RaitisRides]

I think you are so very right

[@derekgaliee4351]

Hi Joe 👋👋👋👋👋🙂 Great Review as Always you Living The Dream 🥂😊

[@serignesaliouthiam3914]

M'y Dream car YUKON DENALI ULTIMATE XL 💯✅💪🏿🇺🇸

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad that that they like that one

[@serignesaliouthiam3914]

@@RaitisRides thank you very much✅💯👍🏿🇺🇸

[@RaitisRides]

@@serignesaliouthiam3914you are so very welcome

[@famasmaster2000]

Thats a beautiful ride for sure. Very good and informative video. Camera work was spot on 👍🏼 great job you two 👌

[@RaitisRides]

We appreciate you saying that!

[@wingwmn217]

Hey Joe, fellow Floridian here, hope you and your family and friends and homes in Clearwater are doing okay after the recent hurricane 🙏

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for taking the time to say that! We are same and sound.

[@NB-cn9uk]

I always had 24 wheels years ago on my Chevy trucks lol it’s a Texas thing 🤘🏽

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right about that!

[@bentleyfierro3926]

Professional Grade GMC 🙌

[@RaitisRides]

You better believe it!

[@ToddTaylorTexas]

Suburban next please! 👍🥊

[@RaitisRides]

Oh it’s coming so stay tuned

[@MurseTech64]

Strong possibility, Joe, but definitely NOT better than the Escalade iQ

[@RaitisRides]

I can’t wait to see how that goes

[@evanr81]

Wife really wants auto doors of Escalade, is this an option. Like this look better

[@RaitisRides]

No unfortunately it is not.

[@williamgibson1320]

You da man sir 🎉love your vids 🎉

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you my friend 😊

[@rtcturnemup7028]

GMC always been the more rugged more truck like brand compared to the Chevy. This is a great refresh

[@emilp2710]

Looks great. I think the 2025 Denali looks better then the Ultimate.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your vote

[@scottbrawley407]

2025 GMC Yukon Denali 4X4 Denali 25th Anniversary Edition!

[@RaitisRides]

Scott you really nailed it

[@sonataq14]

I have the 2024 Yukon XL Denali Ultimate. Mine is much more beautiful than this one. The infotainment Center in this 2025 model is absolutely obnoxious. It is oversized and an eyesore. It completely destroyed the interior.

[@BigdawgR6R1]

I agree. All these new vehicles are going the Tesla infotainment route. I have a 2022 Yukon Denali and will definitely not be upgrading. The exhaust tips and headlight design are hideous. Though, I’m hoping the new headlights have better output because they suck on the current gen. I’m going to assume this refresh will have the lifter issues as well.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your ownership input!

[@RaitisRides]

Great points!

[@AnontheGOAT]

Totally agree. The bespoke Denali dashboard is no longer. They made it flow so well. Unlike this, it’ll age very well.

[@G-Rated]

@@BigdawgR6R1it definitely isn’t the Tesla route.

[@derekgaliee4351]

This be A Great SUV for Full Time Ride Share Lyft Black XL or Uber Black XL

[@peg38]

question: when you're on remotes, what is your favorite hotel to stay with? thank you, tony

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great question. For this one the closest hotel was the INDIGO

[@peg38]

@@RaitisRides that's a nice place, downtown - safe travels

[@christophercarr8717]

The fact that the cup holder cover doesn’t hide away is going to be a massive annoyance, especially since it blocks where you put your phone. Major engineering miss!

[@richardwalther6229]

GM was hoping you’d compare this to a Lincoln Navigator. Instead, you have them poaching other GM brands for sales. That’s what happens when you make three identical vehicles- the Tahoe, Yukon and Escalade.

[@mannyrivera6990]

I am ready to pre order, How can I get the right info to get this same model and color please.

[@Bowhunters6go8xz6x]

Absolutely beautiful SUV and loaded with tech and super nice interior, the IR/Night Vision could help to keep you from hitting a deer on the road at night. Excellent review and camera work !

[@RaitisRides]

We appreciate your great points and kind words.

[@HenryArdon3002]

I love ❤️ the 2024 Cadillac Escalade

[@RaitisRides]

You are not alone in that feeling!

[@bryy2053]

I'd take the Yukon over the escalade. The caddy is too flashy and this is more subtle class in my eyes.

[@FocusFactor2003]

Choosing between the Cadillac Escalade and the Denali Yukon can be challenging as both have unique qualities. The Yukon offers a modern look with distinctive styling and enhanced luxury, especially in the Denali trim.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right about that

[@johnlamb4465]

When are they hitting lots? I want to go haggle one down to 7% below invoice!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Not until the end of the year

[@AnontheGOAT]

Good luck. This isn’t a truck. Maybe on the outgoing 2024’s.

[@telliesmith9825]

Beautiful

[@JBTRUCKN]

Only upgrades are the screen and the speed tech screen. I’d rather get a 2024 model. Can buy those wheels aftermarket.

[@RaitisRides]

Those are still available!

[@tomdrummy4984]

I’ll take the Porsche 911….oops sorry, not a choice. 🙃 Ok, Escalade please. Thanks Joe and Lori !!

[@DriveFastDriveHard]

Amen people think $125k+ is a lot but when you’re paying upwards of $100k on crap American cars, might as well go all in on a Porsche 911

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for always making me smile with your comments

[@RaitisRides]

@@DriveFastDriveHardso very true

[@BigdawgR6R1]

Why not have both? I have two 911’s and a Yukon Denali. They serve different purposes and both are equally enjoyable. 😊

[@Irishmanbikes]

This is a nice looking vehicle, but I really like the 2025 Sequoia 1794 Edition. Thanks Lori for the camera work.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for showing Lori some love!

[@Irishmanbikes]

@@RaitisRides Of course. Lori and you are really great people!

[@RaitisRides]

@@Irishmanbikeswe appreciate you

[@atg1338]

The Toyota is loaded with cheap plastic inside amd out.....

[@Irishmanbikes]

@@atg1338 Maybe, but it will out last the GMC in engine and transmission

[@lundystuart8702]

When is this available to order?

[@mikeharris7261]

Damn, this refresh looks a lot better. I love the way they redid the infotainment center.

[@RaitisRides]

They really nailed it Mike

[@tanyawalter7026]

Great video Joe Raiti

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for letting me share it with you

[@tanyawalter7026]

@@RaitisRides thank you soooooo much❤️

[@Visemoon]

VERY nice. I had a 2021 Hellcat Durango, but 1 month ago, I was rear-ended by a truck doing 55 mph. My baby was totaled. I was looking at the 2024 Denali, but I really miss the sound and power of the Hellcat Durango, so I ordered the 2025 Hellcat Durango Silver Bullet. But now, after seeing the 2025 Denali and plus they have the upgraded version of the one you're reviewing, got me 2nd quessing, lol.

[@Dalokok]

ALL Rim No Rubber, Clean front rear and lot's of gizmos to Play. No Zonk I see

[@RaitisRides]

That is great to hear!

[@BigBadAllis]

I bought the 24 Denali Ultimate knowing about the refresh was coming too. I did not want the 25 dash. Not a fan of the 24" wheels and would defiantly equip with 22's. That's just not enough sidewall when you live in a state with a lot of potholes. Even my 22's are pushing it. Beautiful machine though. Can't wait to hear your review once you drive it.

[@Nate-zy5ce]

Love the new Yukon Denali Ultimate, but I have zero interest in a 24" wheel. I'd want a thicker rubber 20" wheel, 18" if I could. I wonder if I could option the 20" or 18", either from the manufacturer, or even after market by the dealer?

[@ericbarry3639]

Question: will the Duramax logo name be displayed on upper fender on the Ultimate trim ? , just like it is on my 2023 model ultimate . FYI at this time , new orders for 2025 ultimate with Duramax engine not available to order….

[@jeffs6090]

Have you been out there in Texas these past several days? Have you heard from friends/family back home to know how everything is there. I've seen lots of damage in the Tampa St Pete areas. Will you be able to get back? You've been busy working at this state fair bringing us the goods, but I'm sure that's on your mind!

[@carbon-dioxide2164]

As headlights nowadays can move and dance like in the Escalades, if you have any influence on how the GMC next cars should behave or what to add in future, please suggest GMC to add the ability to shift the headlights automaticly by... I don't know... pressing one button to shift the led headlights to become asimmetric (for Europe requirements). Firstly, it would be something that nobody invented earlier and secondly, it could increase your export to Europe countries and should let them reach more clients and make more money? Just a thought, but maybe something worth consideration? I'm form Poland and I love AmCars, but recently it's a big problem to drive these modern vehicles in Europe due to led headlights that are hard to adapt to Europe regulations...

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great suggestion!

[@carbon-dioxide2164]

So... 😊 You got my permission to make your own money for selling them my idea - as yours... Win-win situation 😎 ​@@RaitisRides

[@carbon-dioxide2164]

​​​​@@RaitisRides😊 So... You've got my permission to make your own money for selling them my idea - as yours 😎 Win-win situation 😁 Hope to see a proper response by GM soon...

[@zee6029]

Oh that’s bad ass‼️🔥…. I’m in love with the front facing grill, it has a more rounded and relaxed presence, than the 21 -24 models that has an aggressive pink panther nose look…👃 😂 (still a fan)

[@metallicablackend484]

Nice video! Wheels are 10/10

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks , and I totally agree with you!

[@AnontheGOAT]

Them toning down made it look more generic, less aggressive. Pre-facelift had that masculine truck-like look. This doesn’t have that.

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍

[@RaitisRides]

You are the best and we appreciate you!

[@ronnieblea4422]

Love it but I always thought GM should have went with more of the off road focus on GMC than luxury. They already have Cadillac.

[@barryhamilton3112]

I had a new 2023 Denali and got rid of it because the seats were HORRIBLE!! Loved everything else. Seats were OK for 10 minutes or so…

[@BigdawgR6R1]

Why would you spend that kind of money and return it just because of the seats? Did you not take it for a thorough test drive?? I will say the only upside to this is you dodge a potential issue with the lifters and this is coming from a guy who has a 2022 Denali.

[@RaitisRides]

The new Yukon has better seats!

[@RaitisRides]

Everyone I guess have those things that are important to them

[@joserodriguez-nv7gy]

Tahoe, suburbans, Yukon, Denali will never be more nice than an Escalade. It’s just plain and simple

[@atg1338]

Way better then the Toyota 💯

[@jondonlou]

2025 pricing has actually been released. The Yukon Denali ultimate starts at about $103k. The ultimate reserve package is about $11k. Not sure if that includes the 24” wheels. The Yukon in this video is likely $115k+.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the intel!

[@fit4ya1975]

Suckers born every day

[@alanklaus7774]

Nice. Awaiting the drive test to see the ride quality with the 24 inchers.

[@jarelllockhart6710]

Does anyone have something like this but don’t have any kids ?😂

[@re14437]

Nice, but I’ll take a Lexus GX 550 for a bit less cheddar

[@wcarp4231]

A great value compared to the Escalade!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right about that

[@teop7887]

Escalade interior fugly, and a fingerprint magnet.

[@RajaSekar-USA]

No head rest in the middle seat, so technically it’s a six seater.

[@watchmanexpert]

They came with the 3.0 dura max ?

[@rjmendoza]

A couple of bags of “ Aminams” ? What is that?

[@AnontheGOAT]

That digital instrument cluster looks dated compared to the digital one in the 2022-2024. Massive bezel around this one whereas the previous one didn’t have it. Weird.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your honest thoughts on this one.

[@gregoryjefferson6311]

Some of us still prefer a bench 2nd row . I wish we weren't locked into captain chairs . I'd delete the powered console ( that's gonna break 5-8yrs from now ) for a regular deep console & a 3 person 2nd row bench .

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your great points Gregory!

[@rakhsiprayogo82]

Compared with Aston Martin DBX

[@RaitisRides]

Not the same caliber of SUV

[@eugeneholmes1827]

I don’t see 100k gmc smh car prices are crazy

[@inspiration2284]

I cringed so hard during this video.. and it wasn't just over the price tag of this truck. Listing to him speak was like my dad on Viagra mansplaining to me while high on pain pills.

[@RaitisRides]

Obviously you do not know what car passion is.

[@cornellmukes95]

Definitely luxurious at its finest 👌🏽 thanks for the video. My wife wants the Cadillac escalade but after seeing this video she's undecided.

[@RaitisRides]

I am glad that you are digging this one.

[@Destroyer-Grizzly-BIH]

Black leather is so boring.

[@RaitisRides]

I guess it just depends on what it is in!

[@HenryArdon3002]

The modern cars with the latest technology are really beautiful and nice

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are loving them.

[@sh4d0wclaw19]

Dude you didn’t talk about the new shifter. It’s a big deal. I ordered the identical yukon two weeks ago. Hope to see it before Christmas.

[@RaitisRides]

This was a quick overview. The drive will tell all. Congrats on your order!

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your video, Joe GMC

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share it with you

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

@@RaitisRides Welcome

[@effend446]

10:43 That is where I wish GM should've kept the "bong" chime. Don't care for the current one, imo.

[@bigbird9711]

Nice review Joe, I just can't do that tablet like infotainment no style/innovation but the rest of the interior is nice

[@RaitisRides]

I know it is for everyone. that is for sure!

[@batulanrq]

Such a shame how expensive even the base model is…I make 90k/year and I wouldn’t be able to afford it.

[@RaitisRides]

pricing is really out of control!

[@ASEsrty]

جي ام سي عشق لاينتهي ابداً❤

[@RaitisRides]

That is so wonderful to hear

[@ASEsrty]

@@RaitisRides 👍🏻🩶

[@BrianNC81]

Denali better than Escalade for 2025 because you can still get the diesel. Escalade only available in a gas job.