2021 Yukon Diesel Brings Back Memories of the Gold Rush Era

Shortly before the end of the 19th century, gold was discovered in an inhospitable corner of Northwest Canada. As word got out, more than 100,000 prospectors migrated there in what became known as the Klondike Gold Rush. The famous American author Jack London was one of these. Through stories like Call of the Wild and White Fang the rest of America learned how challenging and dangerous this terrain could be.

By understanding the Klondike, its terrain and its history, we might gain a greater appreciation for the the Yukon name when it was introduced in 1991 for the '92 model year. The terrain is rugged, and half the year downright treacherous. You have to learn how to be a survivor there or you're a goner. Hence the Yukon name speaks of a toughness the exceeds the normal.

The Gold Rush image speaks of value. When you "strike gold" it is something you longed for but seldom really expect. So the Yukon name goes along with a search for something of value, and perhaps the joy of finding it. 

One of the nice "discoveries" of this year's crop of SUVs was that of finding a new Duramax diesel engine under the hood of the 2021 Yukon. This story by Fox News focused on yet a third way that the Yukon parallels the Gold Rush of 1896-99, its temporary duration. The title of the article is The 2021 GMC Yukon Diesel is built for the long haul, but may be short-lived. The meaning behind these words is that yes, it is exciting to have a diesel Yukon, but by 2035 GM will only be producing EVs.

The article by Gary Gastelu begins by noting, "It’s the same 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six-cylinder offered in the Sierra pickup and an alternative to the 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8s that are also available in both trucks." Then he switches gears to address the "Why now?" question. The answer is clear. Not everyone is ready to go electric yet. Gastelu cites a stat from the Diesel Technology Forum that diesel pickup and SUV sales were up 28% in 2020. 

After noting the excellent fuel economy of the Yukon the author highlights the hefty towing capacity. (8100 pounds with 2-wheel drive and 7800 with 4-wheel drive.) One gets the impression that Mr. Gastelu likes this compact big boy. 

After a look under the hood, the author takes us inside the cockpit with its unique interior dashboard design. The electronic goodies are many, but it all comes with a price. Then again, gold has value, and this Yukon does, too.

Read the full story here. 

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