2001 GMC Yukon 4Sight

When it comes to handling and control, it’s a foregone conclusion that GMC Yukon 4Sight sets a new benchmark for its segment. That’s because the 4Sight features the first application of a four-wheel steering system in a full-size SUV.

Known as Quadrasteer, the innovative system provides unprecedented low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability. Developed by Delphi Automotive Systems, Quadrasteer is an electromechanical system that turns the vehicle’s rear wheels in relation to the front wheels.

"Yukon XL was built to tow," said Chris Ferrari, Yukon’s assistant brand manager, product. "That makes Quadrasteer a natural fit, because some of Quadrasteer’s most impressive benefits are delivered while towing. On the highway, the driver can change lanes with more confidence and with hardly any trailer sway. At low speeds, the system makes it much easier to perform maneuvers such as parking a camper or backing into a boat launch."

Quadrasteer offers a choice of three driving modes. In "2WS," the 4Sight operates like any two-wheel steer vehicle. In "4WS" at lower speeds, rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels, helping the vehicle make tighter turns. At highway speeds, rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, for better stability during lane changes, passing and evasive maneuvers – especially during wet or windy weather. The "4WS Tow" mode reduces the amount of rear-wheel steer at lower speeds and increases rear wheel steer at higher speeds to provide even more stability than regular four-wheel steering.

"Yukon already is very maneuverable for a full-size SUV, and the addition of Quadrasteer gives Yukon 4Sight a degree of on-highway control and low-speed maneuverability that has never been offered before on a full-size SUV," Ferrari said. "The 4Sight’s surprising agility complements its extraordinary roominess, cargo hauling and safety capabilities."

GMC has taken the truck industry lead in four-wheel steering with the introduction of Quadrasteer on the 2002 GMC Sierra Denali full-size pickup. Although four-wheel steering has appeared on cars, the Sierra Denali represents the first application on a truck, where the benefits are even more apparent.

Contributing to the safe driving experience on the Yukon 4Sight is the Cellport 3000 with Voice Command, the universal, voice-activated hands-free system from Cellport Systems. The system allows the 4Sight driver freedom to use popular makes and models of wireless phones and operate them through the Cellport 3000 system’s built-in voice recognition technology.

Because the Yukon XL is a natural for tailgating with friends, the 4Sight comes with a barbecue module, including table and charcoal grill. The barbecue module is attached to the innovative Reese Dual Port System (DPS) hitch, which can be used to either haul a trailer or attach a rack to transport a barbecue set, luggage, bikes or other equipment. With the DPS hitch, the rack conveniently swings out to allow the rear liftgate to be opened.

Modular interior and roof storage systems make it easier to manage cargo. The interior rear cargo system, by Johnson Controls, contains compartments and hooks for carrying tools and other gear. When it’s not being used, the cargo system can be collapsed flat on top of the Webasto sliding load floor, a feature that makes it convenient to load or unload cargo without reaching far into the rear compartment.

The roof rack consists of four modules. The modules, separately or together, pivot and swing over the side of the vehicle, making it easy to attach or retrieve cargo. Auxiliary lighting on the roof rack makes those tasks easy to perform, even at night.

Powered by the big-block Vortec 8100 V8 with a Whipple supercharger, the Yukon 4Sight provides plenty of muscle for heavy work or recreational duties, producing 500 horsepower and 670 lb-ft of torque.

Enhancing its professional grade capabilities, the Yukon 4Sight also features a front productivity console from Magna Steyr. The console’s front compartment provides concealed storage for a personal digital assistant (PDA) and cell phone with charging outlets, along with a storage tray for small items. The console also features a temperature-controlled cupholder and removable cooler. The center console can be easily converted to provide hanging file folder storage, and convenient nets on the underside of the lid and on the backside of the console offer additional storage.

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