GMC Yukon Vs. Cadillac Escalade: Specs, Features & Trims Comparison
Motorists shopping for a full-size luxury SUV often find themselves comparing the GMC Yukon vs. Cadillac Escalade. While both share a platform, they each have unmistakable personalities that cater to unique crowds. For instance, the Yukon is more of a rugged SUV with luxury appointments, whereas the Escalade embodies sophistication from head to toe while still providing serious performance chops – the distinction is subtle yet important. Join the Bomnin Cadillac Homestead team as we review these models' specs, dimensions, amenities, and technology.
Key Takeaways of Our Yukon vs. Escalade Comparison
- The 2025 Cadillac Escalade delivers stronger standard horsepower and torque than the Yukon.
- Where the Escalade offers a performance-oriented variant, the Yukon opts for available diesel power that can barely surpass the torque specs of the standard Escalade engine and actually lowers the model's horsepower.
- Top-tier Yukon models are well-equipped, but they still fall well short of the premium appointments included in even the mid-tier Escalade models.
- Cadillac warranties exceed the equivalent GMC coverage, protecting your investment for longer.
2025 GMC Yukon vs. Cadillac Escalade Specs & Coverage Overview
| 2025 Cadillac Escalade | 2025 GMC Yukon | |
| Standard Engine | 6.2L V-8 | 5.3L V-8 |
| Horsepower | 420 | 355 |
| Torque | 460 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-spd auto | 10-spd auto |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD | RWD or 4WD |
| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 15 / 19 / 171 | 21 / 26 / 232 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 24 gal | 24 gal |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 8,100 lbs3 | 8,400 lbs4 |
| Warranty Coverage |
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2025 Yukon vs. Escalade Specs Explained
Cadillac Escalade Specs
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade makes an immediate impression with its standard 6.2-liter V-8 engine, producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission and your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, the Escalade delivers commanding performance and confident handling.
In addition to the standard V-8 engine, the lineup offers a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine for the Escalade-V variant. This high-output option produces an exhilarating 682 horsepower and 653 pound-feet of torque.
It's also worth noting that there's an all-electric variant of the flagship Cadillac SUV – the Escalade IQ for sale – something you won't find for the Yukon.
GMC Yukon Specs
The 2025 Yukon starts with a 5.3-liter V-8 engine that generates 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This vehicle also comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and offers rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. You'll have to upgrade your model if you want a 6.2-liter V-8 with the same output as the Escalade. Plus, there's no performance-tuned option – instead, the Yukon has a lackluster diesel engine available.
With a higher focus on utility rather than excitement and elegance, the Yukon can tow 300 pounds more than the Escalade.3,4 However, with significantly higher output, an available EV powertrain, and more robust warranty coverage, the Escalade takes the win for specs and coverage.
2025 GMC Yukon vs. Cadillac Escalade Dimensions & Cargo Space
| 2025 Cadillac Escalade | 2025 GMC Yukon | |
| Wheelbase |
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| Length |
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| Body Width | 81.1 in | 81 in |
| Height |
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76.5 in |
| Wheel Size | 22 - 24 in | 20 - 24 in |
| Max. Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) |
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| Cargo Volume (Behind 3rd / 2nd / 1st Row) |
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As we compare Cadillac Escalade and GMC Yukon dimensions, you'll notice with a quick glance at the chart above that both models sit on the same wheelbase, whether comparing their standard or extended configurations. This leads to many similarities, but there are some differences. For instance, the Escalade has a slightly larger length overall, giving it a more commanding presence. Despite being slightly shorter, we will admit that the Yukon provides just over 2 cubic feet of extra cargo space in both its standard and extended iterations – we imagine this has to do with additional interior appointments in the Escalade.
Both seat up to eight passengers with nearly identical legroom in all three rows, but the Escalade's premium interior design and higher-grade materials elevate overall passenger comfort, giving it the edge despite falling just short of the Yukon's cargo space.
Cadillac Escalade vs. GMC Yukon Styling & Design
In terms of styling, both SUVs are positioned as luxury options. As the Cadillac equivalent of Yukon models – though we hesitate to consider them equal – the Escalade shares the same underlying architecture as the GMC model, but it elevates every detail. For instance, its signature grille, striking LED lighting, and sleek lines have a more luxe appearance.
Meanwhile, the 2025 Yukon tries to be the GMC equivalent of Escalade sport-utes, but it's immediately apparent that it has a more rugged appearance with some upscale amenities, rather than being deluxe from the ground up. There's nothing wrong with that – it just doesn't embody luxury the same way.
GMC Yukon vs. Cadillac Escalade Trim Level Selection
Cadillac Escalade Trims
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade has six unique grades to choose from. Be sure to check out Escalade specials to make accessing a higher tier from the following list even more accessible:
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade Luxury
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade Premium Luxury
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade Sport
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade Premium Luxury Platinum
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum
- 2025 Cadillac Escalade V-Series
GMC Yukon Trims
The Yukon lineup gives you five choices, including the following:
- 2025 GMC Yukon Elevation
- 2025 GMC Yukon AT4
- 2025 GMC Yukon Denali
- 2025 GMC Yukon AT4 Ultimate
- 2025 GMC Yukon Denali Ultimate
GMC Yukon vs. Cadillac Escalade Comfort & Technology
Cadillac Escalade Standard & Available Features
The new Escalade for sale stands out with more standard and available amenities when compared to its cousin. The base Escalade model includes these standard luxuries, to name a few:
- 55-inch curved pillar-to-pillar diagonal display with front passenger infotainment
- 21-speaker AKG® Studio audio system
- 12-way power front seats
- Heated front seats
- Wireless phone charging
- Super Cruise™ Hands-Free Driving6
- Google built-in services
As you ascend the trims, available amenities include the following:
- Panoramic sliding glass roof with power shade
- Rear seat entertainment system with dual independent 12.6-inch diagonal infotainment displays
- Night Vision technology
- Semi-aniline leather upholstery
- Massaging front seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- 42-speaker AKG® Studio Reference Audio system
- Console refrigerator with freezer mode
- 16-way power front seats
- Head-Up Display
GMC Yukon Standard & Available Features
Standard features in the Yukon are luxurious, but they don't quite live up to those in the Escalade. Here's what you'll get in entry-level Elevation:
- 16.8-inch diagonal LCD display
- Google built-in services
- 10-speaker Bose® CenterPoint® Surround audio system
- Heated front seats
- 8-way power driver and passenger seats
- 11-inch color driver information center
When comparing available amenities, a similar story unfolds. Here's what you can find in higher trims of the Yukon:
- Super Cruise™ Hands-Free Driver Assistance
- 16-way power heated and ventilated front seats with massage
- 8-inch rear climate control touchscreen
- 22-speaker Bose® Performance Series sound system
- Head-Up Display
- Full-grain leather seating surfaces
- Night Vision
Even higher trims of the Yukon can't compare to the entry-level Escalade, which is evident from a Cadillac Escalade vs. Yukon Denali review. Step into the Denali Ultimate, and it puts up a good fight – until you start climbing the Escalade trim ladder.
See the New Cadillac Escalade at Bomnin Cadillac Homestead
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade outshines the Yukon with exhilarating performance, a more luxurious interior, and a wider range of premium features. From cutting-edge technology to extensive warranty coverage, the Escalade is built to elevate every drive and your peace of mind. Visit Bomnin Cadillac Homestead to experience this amenity-rich sport-ute in person.
If you're still exploring full-size luxury SUV options, our detailed Escalade vs. Navigator guide shows how the Cadillac Escalade compares to another leading competitor.
Lastly, shoppers seeking long-term value can browse our selection of used Escalade models. These pre-owned options deliver many of the same luxury appointments that make the Escalade a favorite, with the added benefit of competitive pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does reliability compare between the new Escalade and Yukon?
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade earns a "Great" Quality & Reliability score of 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power,7 while the 2025 Yukon receives an "Average" score of 788 in the same category. Both SUVs are built on the same foundation, but the Escalade's higher rating reflects its premium materials, attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and consumer preferences.
Which has more horsepower: the Escalade or Yukon?
The 2025 Escalade has more standard horsepower than the GMC Yukon, offering up to 420 horsepower from its 6.2-liter V-8 engine. Meanwhile, the 2025 Yukon comes with a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter V-8 engine as standard. The available Escalade V-Series engine provides even more oomph with 682 ponies, far surpassing the Yukon's 420 maximum horsepower.
How do the top trims of the Escalade and Yukon compare?
The 2025 Escalade V-Series comes with a supercharged engine, a console refrigerator with freezer mode, a 38-speaker AKG® Studio Reference audio system, and massaging front seats with heating and ventilation, among other perks. The Yukon Denali Ultimate has massaging full-grain leather front seats with heat and ventilation, an 18-speaker Bose® Performance Series CenterPoint® sound system, and wireless device compatibility.
Is GMC or Cadillac better?
Both GMC and Cadillac are respected luxury brands, each offering impressive full-size SUVs. However, Cadillac offers top-tier luxury, while GMC provides value-focused luxury and practicality. Choosing Yukon or Escalade SUV models depends on your priorities: the Yukon blends utility, comfort, and value, while the Escalade leans into elevated luxury, advanced technology, and premium finishes. If you're after the utmost sophistication, the Escalade is the ideal choice.
Which SUV has better cargo space: the Yukon or Escalade?
The 2025 Yukon offers slightly more cargo space with all the rear seats folded when compared to the 2025 Cadillac Escalade, with 122.8 cubic feet versus 120.5 cubic feet, respectively. However, the Escalade offers equal room behind the third row and slightly more cargo space than the Yukon behind the second row. Visit Bomnin Chevrolet Homestead to see the Escalade cargo space in person!
1Based on EPA city estimate 15/highway estimate 19/combined estimate 17 for RWD and fuel tank capacity. Your range may be less.
2EPA-estimated mpg for the 5.3-liter V-8 with 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD. Estimates only. For more information, please visit the official U.S. government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov
3Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo, and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
4GM-estimated. Maximum trailering ratings are intended for comparison purposes only. Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The trailering capacity of your specific vehicle may vary. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can trailer.
5Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
6Turn Signal-Initiated Lane Change and Automatic Lane Change not available while trailering. Always pay attention while driving and when using Super Cruise. Do not use a hand-held device. Requires active Super Cruise plan or trial. Terms apply. Visit cadillac.com/supercruise for compatible roads and full details.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/cadillac/escalade
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/gmc/yukon
