The GMC Yukon stable is getting a new member – two actually – in the form of Graphite Editions. The 2019 Yukon Graphite Editions feature a darkened and shaded exterior theme, while the Graphite Performance Edition adds a few performance-oriented upgrades.
The new Yukons join the Denali Ultimate Black Edition, another special edition Yukon that made its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show late last year.
Graphite Edition
Styling touches include 22-inch bright machined wheels with Carbon Flash Metallic pockets, black assist steps with gloss black accents, black chrome grille mesh insert, and fog lamp surrounds. Other blacked-out elements include the roof rails and beltline moldings, along with other various trim pieces.
Graphite Performance Edition
This special Yukon includes the aforementioned styling elements but adds GM’s evergreen 6.2-liter V8 engine linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission (3.23 axle ratio) to reduce revolutions at highway speeds. Inside, drivers are treated to Bose Active Noise Cancellation, multi-color heads-up display, navigation, and an eight-inch color infotainment screen.
Power & Performance
The 6.2-liter V8, complete with direct injection, continuously variable valve timing, and Active Fuel Management, puts 420 horses to the pavement; torque is a healthy 460 lb-ft. The Yukon Graphite Performance Edition also gets Magnetic Ride Control, which uses sensors to “read” the road, altering the damping rate of the shocks accordingly.
Along with the upgraded powertrain, the Graphite Performance Edition adds a trailer brake controller, 170-amp alternator, and a higher grade air filter.
Pricing & Availability
The Graphite Editions are available in SLT trim only, but can be had on both the Yukon and Yukon XL in either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. There are three exterior colors: Onyx Black, White Frost Tricoat, and Dark Sky Metallic. Expect the Graphite Editions at dealers later this summer with pricing due closer to that time.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
Photos & Source: GMC.
