Once inside, the Yukon offers a pleasant cabin. The high-back bucket seats are comfortable with inboard armrests. Like other big sport-utilities, the Yukon offers a commanding view of the traffic, while the long side windows provide good visibility over the shoulder.

The instrument panel is straightforward and the dash is an attractive design with rounded curves. Storage space abounds in the form of a glovebox, center console, door pockets and nets behind the seats. Well-designed cupholders are everywhere, while extra power outlets for cellular phones and radar detectors make life easier.

People in the back seats aren't forgotten. The back of the console provides them with cupholders and storage. Map lights are available and the heating and air conditioning is directed to keep them comfortable.

A rear air conditioning unit with overhead controls gives the people in back some choices. Standard on SLT trim, the system uses two main and two window-shade-type outlets located in the headliner above the rear seat. Control knobs positioned in the rear seats allow blower speed adjustments.

With the rear seats folded down, the four-door Yukon offers 118.2 cubic feet--nearly identical to the Expedition--while the Suburban provides 149.5 cubic feet. Buyers may order these vehicles with either the split panel doors or a tailgate. Tailgates are best for most folks as rearward visibility is much better and they work well for loading groceries. Split panel doors may be more utilitarian for serious duty as they eliminate the lowered rear lift gate.

A new Autotrac active transfer case designed to enhance traction and driver control comes standard on four-wheel-drive Yukons. Controlled by an electronic transfer case, the system includes the traditional modes of two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and low-range four-wheel-drive. Pressing the Auto 4WD button puts the vehicle in an on-demand four-wheel-drive mode. When a condition requires four-wheel drive, sensors detect wheel slippage and apportion greater amounts of torque to the front wheels until the rear wheels regain traction. The transfer case can be left in Auto 4WD on all surfaces without damage or wear occurring. If continuous rear-wheel slippage occurs for a sustained time, the system will automatically go into 4 Hi mode to protect the actuator motor.

An optional locking rear differential is extra insurance against getting stuck a long way from home.

We recommend ordering the optional trailer-towing equipment, which includes a Class III receiver. It will enhance the value of your Tahoe even if you don't plan to do any towing. In our experience, the Yukon and Tahoe make stable, powerful tow vehicles with good brakes.

GM's OnStar Communication System makes traveling in a Yukon safer and more secure. A dealer-installed option, OnStar integrates on-board advanced vehicle electronics with Global Positioning Satellite technology and a hands-free, voice-activated cellular telephone, linking both the driver and the vehicle with the OnStar Center. OnStar services include emergency services, theft detection notification, stolen vehicle tracking, remote door unlock, roadside assistance with location, and route advice. A new database has been developed with more than 3.2 million listings of restaurants, hotels, gas stations and entertainment spots. OnStar automatically alerts the communications center when an airbag has been deployed; they immediately call the driver to determine whether help is necessary.