2016 Denali vs 2018 SLT

[fordfest]

We have a 2016 Yukon XL Denali that we have owned for about 1-1/2 years. We like the looks, styling and technology. However, we have the same ride quality issues that many have posted about. A side effect from the rough ride is we now have multiple rattles. I think we all agree cara that cost as much as these should not have these issues. We fully expected the 2016 to be as good as our 04 and 07. Our frustration with the 2016 has us at a point of not knowing if we want to keep it.

I decided to test drive a 2018 SLT to see if the ride was any better. My thought was no magnetic ride and 20" wheels should give a better ride.

The main differences I noticed was the dash/console layout and a few trim pieces outside. Other than that pretty much the same.

You could definitely feel the difference with the smaller engine. But, after a couple of days I think you would get use to it.

My test drive was down the same roads I drove everyday just to make sure I'm giving it a fair test. Unfortunately, my test drive lasted a few short miles. I noticed immediately that the SLT had multiple rattles as well. Once I heard the rattles, I had all the info I needed. IMO it doesn't make sense to swap our 2016 Denali for a 2018 SLT if it has the same rattles. At this point, we have no plans of swapping it for another GM SUV regardless of make or models. I'm not sure why GM is having these problems with their flagship SUVs.


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[GTNator]

We have a 2016 Yukon XL Denali that we have owned for about 1-1/2 years. We like the looks, styling and technology. However, we have the same ride quality issues that many have posted about. A side effect from the rough ride is we now have multiple rattles. I think we all agree cara that cost as much as these should not have these issues. We fully expected the 2016 to be as good as our 04 and 07. Our frustration with the 2016 has us at a point of not knowing if we want to keep it.

I decided to test drive a 2018 SLT to see if the ride was any better. My thought was no magnetic ride and 20" wheels should give a better ride.

The main differences I noticed was the dash/console layout and a few trim pieces outside. Other than that pretty much the same.

You could definitely feel the difference with the smaller engine. But, after a couple of days I think you would get use to it.

My test drive was down the same roads I drove everyday just to make sure I'm giving it a fair test. Unfortunately, my test drive lasted a few short miles. I noticed immediately that the SLT had multiple rattles as well. Once I heard the rattles, I had all the info I needed. IMO it doesn't make sense to swap our 2016 Denali for a 2018 SLT if it has the same rattles. At this point, we have no plans of swapping it for another GM SUV regardless of make or models. I'm not sure why GM is having these problems with their flagship SUVs.


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That’s too bad you’re experiencing rattles like that. So what are you thinking?


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[fordfest]

That’s too bad you’re experiencing rattles like that. So what are you thinking?


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Not sure at this point. We have owned a Yukon XL Denali for 14 years. We bought them for there quality and styling. IMO, nothing comes close to the looks and styling of these vehicles in the full size SUV segment, nothing.

We looked at a 2018 Expedition and Toyota Sequoia yesterday. Again, not even close. Because of this, we didn't test drive either vehicle.

We just need GM to correct the issues.


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[sickk23]

I wonder if your MRC is functioning properly. My burb floats with MRC, def no harsh ride.

It’s somewhat common that the system can be faulty and cause the shocks to go stiff. It’s under warranty if you’re under 36k miles. Have the dealer check it out.

No sure what you’re talking about when you mention dash layout is dif in the 18. It’s the same, whether it’s SLT or Denali. But there’s many other differences you apparently didn’t notice.

 

[fordfest]

I wonder if your MRC is functioning properly. My burb floats with MRC, def no harsh ride.

It’s somewhat common that the system can be faulty and cause the shocks to go stiff. It’s under warranty if you’re under 36k miles. Have the dealer check it out.

No sure what you’re talking about when you mention dash layout is dif in the 18. It’s the same, whether it’s SLT or Denali. But there’s many other differences you apparently didn’t notice.

I've told the service department about the ride issues and mentioned the MRC. They seem clueless to any issues.

In regard to dash/console layout. The gauges are different between the two as is the console. Not sure if I would like the open cup holders and small compartment. It's nice to be able to close the lids on both to give a clean look. Just my opinion. I know there are several differences, those are the only two things that stood out on the inside when I took it for a short drive.


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[GTNator]

I've told the service department about the ride issues and mentioned the MRC. They seem clueless to any issues.

In regard to dash/console layout. The gauges are different between the two as is the console. Not sure if I would like the open cup holders and small compartment. It's nice to be able to close the lids on both to give a clean look. Just my opinion. I know there are several differences, those are the only two things that stood out on the inside when I took it for a short drive.


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Where are the rattles coming from? The dashboard?

 

[fordfest]

Where are the rattles coming from? The dashboard?

No dashboard rattles.
The list of rattles. . . front driver side corner of sunroof, passenger rear door (sounds like something is loose in the door), front row DVD monitor, 3rd row seat (the part you sit on rattles against the frame unless someone sits in it, hanging seat belt 3rd row (roof mount), back glass and the rear cargo cover (if not extended).

That's a lot of rattles


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[JTRATX]

No dashboard rattles.
The list of rattles. . . front driver side corner of sunroof, passenger rear door (sounds like something is loose in the door), front row DVD monitor, 3rd row seat (the part you sit on rattles against the frame unless someone sits in it, hanging seat belt 3rd row (roof mount), back glass and the rear cargo cover (if not extended).

That's a lot of rattles


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As annoying as the rattles are, start tackling them one by one, yourself.


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[Tahoe14]

When I purchased my early build 2015 that I ended up giving back under the Lemon Law a can of silicone spray was my best friend. Sounds like yours are a little more complicated. As someone suggested start tackling them one at a time. Have someone else drive and then pin point where they are coming from. If you want the dealer to repair as they should then i would have the tech ride with me. I don't go for the cannot duplicate and I hate reading when someone post that. Make the tech or the service manager ride along and point out the issue. It is very important to establish a good relationship with the service department. Six pack of beer, gatorade, soda, gift card or small cash tip goes a long way.

 

[GTNator]

When I purchased my early build 2015 that I ended up giving back under the Lemon Law a can of silicone spray was my best friend. Sounds like yours are a little more complicated. As someone suggested start tackling them one at a time. Have someone else drive and then pin point where they are coming from. If you want the dealer to repair as they should then i would have the tech ride with me. I don't go for the cannot duplicate and I hate reading when someone post that. Make the tech or the service manager ride along and point out the issue. It is very important to establish a good relationship with the service department. Six pack of beer, gatorade, soda, gift card or small cash tip goes a long way.

lol, that actually is a good idea. But when you think about it, it's also sad that one has to see the service department more than for a routine oil change or other maintenance.