Posted by Traveler on March 11, 19100 at 21:03:38:
This AM Gonefishin invited me to attend a test drive of the Yukon and XL that was nearby. We had a blast! They had a brief presentation by a marketing rep from GM, static displays including a MY2000 1500 chassis, and several vehicles to drive. Here are a few thoughts:
The test track consisted of a starting line, full throttle accel through most of first gear, than slam on the brakes for antilock. Next there was a low speed pass over a serpentine 3" ship's rope to exercise the suspension. Last there was a low speed lane change maneuver.
An Excursion was there for comparison testing, however it had already broken the front anti-sway bar and was sidelined.
I drove the 6.0L 2500 first. Acceleration was instantaneous and strong; braking was quite impressive. Overall a very nice confident ride.
The other one I drove was a 5.3L 1500. I found the off idle throttle rasponse dull to dead and then the torque came on like I was rear ended by a train. Between the 3.05 first gear and presumably 4.10 gears, it pulled harder at the top end of first than the 6.0L. Braking was very responsive. No-one will be complaining about these brakes. During the lane change I threw it very hard and started to bring the back around, but it settled nicely. There was more lean than the 2500, but one would have to try real hard to get out of control.
Both vehicles had plenty of power and brakes. I'd have to say they both were stronger accelerating than my TBI454.
Inside they are very nice. It's easy to be overcritical, so here are a few things I liked and didn't:
Liked:
+The stereo is improved, although the subwoofer is still lacking.
+After trying the lift gate with wiper and opening window, I think I prefer it to barn doors.
+The seats were improved over mine, and the two-tone interior was nice.
+Puddle lights under the outside rear view mirrors.
+Nice trailer electrical connector integral to the hitch.
+12V outlet in right rear corner of cargo space.
+Redesigned door handles.
+The front end and grille design is nice.
+The feel is one of refinement vs. more truck-like on the C/K.
+The chassis displayed was impressive: hydroformed side rails, sturdy ladder design, nice control arms with panhard rod for the rear; thicker rear sway bar; impressive mounts for the front diff; rear DeCarbon? air shocks mounted at a slant, tops towards the rear; nice dual piston calipers front and rear.
Disliked:
-The sunroof was small and very slow. I won't order one, not to mention deleting the second seat AC controls and ovh console.
-The console between the front buckets is rediculously large and ugly
-The quality of the plastic throughout is bordering on being cheap-looking.
-The second row buckets felt good, but the wasted space in the center bothered me.
-I saw 4 people including 2 GM reps try to figure out how to release the thrid seat, without success.
-The 3r'd seat in the Yukon was right against the tailgate and didn't look inviting. Kids only...
-Firestone tires
-Moving the spare underneath opened up space in the back. GM put a subwoofer there that is ineffective. So there is still no more room and the gas tank is smaller. Ooops!
-Somehow there seems to be less room up front than my K model has... could be an illusion.
-We couldn't figure out whether the AC system had a filter like the Silverado, and no-one knew.
-No apparrent attempt to strengthen the rear differential on the 1500.
-I didn't like the redesigned manual AC controls. Climate control looked better.
-They still need to hire a wheel designer that can turn out something sporty.
Misc:
-Only two sensors for active ride, left front and left rear
-Rep confirms 8.1L Vortec will be offered in 2002.
-Rep speculated 6.6L turbo diesel will be hard to get at first due to the demand in pickups. No idea if 1500's will get the diesel. Since it's backed by the Allison 5 speed, I highly doubt it (and the diff is too weak).
-GM sends two car-haulers full of trucks, a boat, and Excursion, a staff of at least 4, rents a substantial facility, and there is only one lady knowledgeable enough to answer questions. Wow!
*Everyone try to find out when this dog and pony show is coming your way. It is well worth an hour or two!
**I will be saving my pennies for a 2500 in 2002 or 2003 with the 8.1L. I was impressed by the new design, even with a few rough edges.