Do Yukons have captain seats?

Yes. Yukons can be equipped with captain's chairs in the second row, replacing the standard three-passenger bench on many trims and model years. This two-person row brings a center console and reduces total seating from eight to seven.

In this article, we examine what captain seats are, how they affect passenger capacity and cargo space, and which Yukon trims typically offer them. We also explain how to choose the right configuration for your needs when shopping.

What captain's chairs are and why they matter

Captain's chairs refer to two individual seats in the second row, as opposed to a single bench that accommodates three passengers. The captain's chairs usually include a center console between the seats and can improve comfort and access to the third row by creating a direct path between the front and rear rows.

Seating configurations available

The Yukon interior can be configured with two common second-row setups. Availability varies by model year, trim, and optional packages.

• Second-row bench seat (three-passenger): standard on many Yukon trims, yielding eight total seats (2 in front, 3 in second row, 3 in third row).


• Second-row captain's chairs (two individual seats) with a center console: available on many trims, yielding seven total seats and easier access to the third row.

Note that the exact configuration depends on the model year and trim; verify with the dealer for the specific Yukon you’re considering.

Impact on cargo and access

Switching to captain's chairs usually narrows mid-row access differently. It can make it easier to reach the third row and can slightly reduce cargo area when seats are in use, though folding the third row typically restores most cargo space. If you regularly haul gear with all rows in use, bench seating may be preferable; if you frequently shuttle passengers, captain's chairs can be more comfortable.

Trims and availability (general guidance)

In recent Yukon generations, captain's chairs are commonly offered as an option on mid- to upper-level trims such as SLE, SLT, and Denali, with Denali variants sometimes including them as standard. Exact availability varies by model year and market, so confirm with the dealer or configurator for the latest options.

Summary

The Yukon does offer captain's chairs as a second-row seating option on many trims. This configuration reduces overall passenger capacity from eight to seven and provides a center console between two individual seats, improving comfort and access for some buyers. Always verify the current year’s trim configurations with a dealer or official configurator to ensure you get the exact setup you want.

Which Tahoes have captain's chairs?

Most Chevy Tahoe models have captain's chairs as an optional upgrade for select trims, which reduces the seating capacity from eight to seven. The Premier and High Country trims often come standard with captain's chairs. The captain's chairs can be added as part of an optional package for other trims, such as the LT, Z71, and RST, or can be found on older models as well.
 
Current models (2025)

• Optional: Captain's chairs are available on several trims, including the LT, Z71, and RST, often as part of a package. 
• Standard: The Premier and High Country trims feature captain's chairs as a standard configuration. 

Previous models

• 2021 and newer: Captain's chairs were offered as an option on many trims and came standard on higher trims like the Premier and High Country. 
• 2018 and newer: The LT and Premier models offered captain's chairs as an option or standard feature. 
• 2015-2020: Captain's chairs were available on the LT and Premier models. 

What year to stay away from GMC Yukon?

The GMC Yukon years to avoid are generally the first model year of a new generation, specifically 2007 and 2015, due to numerous and significant complaints. Other problematic years include 2001, 2016, and 2021, which also experienced notable issues with engines, transmissions, electronics, or other systems. 
Specific years to avoid and their common problems

• 2001: Issues with the engine and brake systems, including unexpected power loss and brake line failure. 
• 2007: A year with many powertrain complaints, often due to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system which can cause excessive oil consumption and engine problems. Other issues include cracked dashboards and faulty door lock actuators. 
• 2015: The model year with the most complaints overall, primarily related to taillights and the climate system. 
• 2016: This year's 8-speed automatic transmission is known for shuddering, rough shifting, and potential failure. 
• 2021: As the first model year of a new generation, it suffered from issues like transmission hesitation, infotainment problems, and a firmer-than-expected ride. 

General advice

• First-year models: Be cautious with the first model year of any generation, as they are more likely to have design-related problems that are later corrected in subsequent years. 
• AFM engine: If considering a 2007-2014 model, be aware of the potential for problems with the AFM system. This can often be mitigated by disabling the system or having it professionally maintained. 
• 8-speed transmission: Pay close attention to 2015-2016 models, as they are more likely to have transmission issues than other model years. 

Which GMC Yukon has captain seats?

The 2024 GMC Yukon SLE can seat up to nine. The SLT, AT4, and Denali trims all offer eight- or seven-passenger seating. The Denali Ultimate tier comes with standard second-row captains chairs, giving you seating for seven.

Which GMC SUV has captain seats?

GMC offers captain's chairs in several SUVs, including the Acadia and the Yukon. The Acadia is available with second-row captain's chairs on select trims like the SLT, AT4, and Denali, providing a 6-seat configuration. The Yukon offers standard or available captain's chairs, especially on its higher trims, with options for both seven or eight-passenger configurations depending on the specific model and trim.
 
GMC Acadia

• Seating configuration: Available in a 6-seat configuration on SLT, AT4, and Denali trims, replacing the standard second-row bench with two captain's chairs. 
• Accessibility: Some models feature a second-row seat tilt feature for easier access to the third row, even with a car seat installed. 
• Comfort: Features like heated and ventilated seats are available, and the captain's chairs can offer added comfort and legroom. 

This video provides a review of the 2025 GMC Acadia Denali, highlighting its interior and captain's chairs: 1mAllcarnewsYouTube · Feb 10, 2025
GMC Yukon

• Seating configuration: Can be ordered with captain's chairs for the second row, which typically results in a 7-passenger capacity (instead of 8 with a second-row bench). 
• Luxury: Higher trims like the Denali and Denali Ultimate come with standard or enhanced captain's chairs for added luxury. 
• Space: As a full-size SUV, the Yukon offers ample space for passengers and cargo, and the captain's chairs are available in various trims. 

You can watch this video to see the features of the 2018 GMC Acadia Denali, including its captain's chairs: 1mPluggedIn AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 18, 2025