2023 GMC Yukon Denali vs 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS – Which SUV Offers Better Value?
GMC Yukon Denali vs Chevrolet Trailblazer RS: Size, capability, engines, features, and price compared.
At Corwin Motors Kalispell, we understand that choosing the right SUV depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. Are you seeking a luxurious palace on wheels for the family, or a nimble companion for weekend adventures? Today, we compare two compelling options from the General Motors family: the top-of-the-line 2023 GMC Yukon Denali and the sporty 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS.
Size
The Yukon Denali boasts a commanding presence, dwarfing the Trailblazer RS. With seating for up to eight passengers and a cavernous cargo hold, the Denali is ideal for large families or those who frequently transport significant amounts of gear.
The Trailblazer RS, on the other hand, offers a more manageable size, making it perfect for navigating city streets and tight parking spaces. While passenger capacity is limited to five, it still provides ample legroom and cargo space for a weekend getaway.
Off-Road Capability
Neither the Denali nor the Trailblazer RS are dedicated off-road vehicles. The Yukon Denali can handle light off-roading, although this isn’t its forte. Its large size might be cumbersome on narrow trails. If you like the Yukon to be equipped for tackling tough terrains, the AT4 is your choice. It boasts four-wheel drive with selectable terrain modes, increased ground clearance, and skid plates.
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS might surprise you with its off-road capabilities. While not a dedicated rock crawler, it boasts features that make it suitable for venturing beyond the pavement. With available all-wheel drive, drive mode selection for various conditions, and features like off-road suspension tuning, skid plates, and all-terrain tires (on select models), it offers surprising capability for tackling well-maintained dirt roads and trails, making it a good choice for those who enjoy occasional off-pavement exploration.
Engine Options and Performance
The Yukon Denali offers a trio of engine options:
a 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel I6 engine producing 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque
a 6.2L V8 engine that churns out a massive 420 hp and 460 lb-ft
5.3L V8 engine with 355 hp and 383 lb-ft, offering a good balance between power and fuel economy
Rear-wheel drive is standard on the Yukon Denali, while all-wheel drive is available as an option. All 2023 GMC Yukon Denali models come equipped with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Read our full review of the 2023 Yukon Denali.
The Trailblazer RS features a 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This combination prioritizes fuel efficiency and a smooth driving experience, making it ideal for city commutes and everyday errands.
Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard on the Trailblazer RS. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an option. Opting for AWD provides better traction and handling in slippery conditions or light off-road situations by sending power to all four wheels.
Fuel Economy
The 3.0L turbocharged diesel I6 is the most fuel-efficient option for the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali, especially with 2WD. It delivers 21 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway.
Meanwhile, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS offers superior fuel economy thanks to its 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engine which prioritizes efficiency. With its front-wheel drive option, the Trailblazer RS delivers an impressive 29 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway and 26 mpg city and 30 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. This translates to fewer gas stops and saving money at the pump.
Interior
The 2023 GMC Yukon Denali's interior exudes luxury with high-quality materials, offering comfortable seating for up to eight passengers (or seven with optional second-row captain's chairs). Passengers are pampered with heated and ventilated seats, while a large 10.2-inch dual rear seat media screens and a panoramic sunroof (available) enhance the tech-savvy and airy feel of the cabin. If you want everything the Yukon has to offer, the top-of-the-line Denali Ultimate is for you.
In contrast, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS's interior caters to drivers with a sporty feel thanks to a driver-focused cockpit layout and features like a sporty steering wheel and aluminum pedals. Cloth upholstery keeps things practical, while available customizable accents add a personal touch. A user-friendly infotainment system with smartphone connectivity keeps you entertained, and the functional design with ample cargo space makes it perfect for adventures and everyday errands.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2023 GMC Yukon Denali prioritizes safety with a suite of driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It also boasts a user-friendly infotainment system on a large 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Connectivity features like Bluetooth® and available Wi-Fi hotspot keep you informed and entertained on the go.
On the other hand, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS features an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. It comes equipped with standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.
Price Point
2023 GMC Yukon Denali: Starting MSRP for the base trim level of the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali is around $74,000. Expect higher prices for trims with additional features and options.
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS: The Trailblazer RS is a more budget-friendly option compared to the Yukon Denali. The starting MSRP for the 2023 Trailblazer RS is around $26,000. Again, expect to pay more for higher trim levels with additional features.
Which SUV Has Better Value?
It depends. Ultimately, the "better value" depends on your specific needs and budget.
Choose the Trailblazer RS if: You prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, a sporty ride, and a manageable size for city driving. While offering some capability for light off-roading adventures, it excels on paved roads. Check out our New Chevrolet Trailblazer inventory.
Choose the Yukon Denali if: You seek a luxurious, spacious SUV with top-tier features for the family. Its powerful engines make it ideal for towing and handling hauling and occasional off-road excursions, although maneuverability on tight trails might be a challenge. Check out our New GMC Yukon Inventory.
Test Drive Your Choice at Corwin Motors Kalispell.
The best way to decide which SUV reigns supreme for you is to experience them firsthand. Visit Corwin Motors Kalispell today for a test drive of both the 2023 GMC Yukon Denali and the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will answer your questions and help you find the perfect vehicle that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
Call or visit Corwin Motors Kalispell to schedule a test drive today. We serve customers in Missoula, Butte, Bozeman, Great Fall, Helena, Havre, Cut Bank, Libby, Ronan, Polson, Flathead County, Lake County, Mineral County, Lincoln County, Glacier Park, Idaho, Spokane, and the Greater Spokane Area.
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