The Denali takes those looks a step further. It's distinguished by a body-colored front bumper that emphasizes the big grille, giving the Denali a powerful look. Body-colored cladding complements integrated body-colored running boards. The horizontal lower body contour flows to the rear where a functional step bumper cleverly shrouds a standard trailer hitch. Body-colored door handles, mirrors and luggage rack complete the Denali's monotone look. Chromed aluminum 16-inch wheels further distinguish it from the Yukon.

The Denali comes in one trim level and retails for $43,495.

All Yukons, including the new Denali, are fitted with GM's 5.7-liter Vortec V8 engine. It's a smooth, powerful and efficient engine, enabling the Yukon to accelerate quickly and pull trailers up to 7000 pounds.

A redesigned case for the automatic transmission reduces vibration and noise in 1998 Yukons. New software improves the efficiency of the electronically controlled four-speed automatic by adjusting line pressures according to operating parameters. A deeper transmission oil pan improves transmission durability and fluid life.

Two trim levels, SLE and SLT, are available for the Yukon. Two-wheel-drive Yukons starts at $30,244, while 4WD models start at $33,244.

A new luxury convenience package is available on SLT models with front bucket seats that includes: a 3-channel Homelink transmitter for opening garage doors and turning on lights, a touring suspension with specially tuned and Bilstein shocks, heated driver and front passenger seats, heated electrochromic outside rearview mirrors, and a six-way power front passenger seat.

These full-size trucks cost $4,000-$8,000 more than compact sport-utilities such as the GMC Jimmy and Ford Explorer, but provide a lot of utility and value when compared with the much more expensive Toyota Land Cruiser and Range Rover.