The GMC Yukon Denali stands out in the premium SUV segment for its commanding road presence and performance-driven engineering. Beyond its refined design and powerful engine, the brand’s flagship SUV comes equipped with OnStar – a cutting-edge in-vehicle technology suite that our experts just had the exclusive opportunity to experience firsthand.
One thing is for sure: OnStar is more than a basic tech suite for convenience and connectivity. It is designed to be a perfect ride companion, making everyday commutes smarter, safer and more enjoyable.
OnStar: Redefining the Drive Experience
OnStar is a subscription-based in-vehicle service platform available across most GMC, Chevrolet and Cadillac models. It is designed to enhance the driving experience by integrating connectivity, safety, and entertainment, among other tech-driven features.
The system operates through built-in vehicle hardware supported by mobile network connectivity, allowing drivers to access a wide range of connected services. You can experience a host of enhanced services such as Remote Commands, Google Built-in, Advanced Safety and 24/7 Advisor Assistance, upon activation.
Disclaimer: OnStar Connected Services are currently available in Kuwait, UAE, KSA and Bahrain. Wi-Fi plans are available in Kuwait, UAE and Bahrain only. Services vary by country. See onstarabia.com for equipped vehicles, service availability and system limitations.
Driving Denali on a Hot Day in Dubai
OnStar makes driving easier with seamless connectivity. Our experts tested the Yukon Denali equipped with OnStar to evaluate its real-world capabilities.
Remote Commands via the myGMC app
You can start your AC before you get in, lock and unlock your car, check your vehicle’s health with advanced vehicle diagnostics and more with the myGMC app (Android I iOS). You get to experience better control wherever you are.
As they left the office building, our experts opened the myGMC app to start the engine and switch on the AC. By the time they waited for the lift and walked to the car, it was already running and pre-cooled, offering instant relief from the 45°C heat.
The myGMC app is more than just remote start and lock/unlock from anywhere. From cooling your cabin on hot days to locating your vehicle to sending destinations to your navigation system, or checking real-time updates on tyre pressure and fuel levels, everything’s just a tap away. With access to Roadside Assistance and a full digitised easy-to-search Owner’s Manual, the app helps you stay informed, in control and ready for the road ahead.
During our visit to Dubai Festival City Mall, the team couldn’t recall where the car was parked, but OnStar had it covered. A quick tap on ‘Map’ in the app instantly guided us back to the vehicle.
And that’s only a glimpse of what OnStar offers. With features like Advanced Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Commands and more, the app brings everyday convenience right to your phone.
Built-In Voice Assistance and Navigation
Google built-in, powered by OnStar, brings seamless voice-controlled convenience, letting you navigate, play music and stay productive with your favourite apps.
During the test drive, dubizzle’s expert explored the Yukon Denali’s Google Built-In features by navigating to home using voice commands, rerouting seamlessly through traffic via Google Maps visible on the massive 16.8-inch screen.
They accessed messages, controlled music and even downloaded Prime Video from the Play Store—thanks to the SUV’s hands-free connectivity and smartphone-like responsiveness. The team was also able to control vehicle commands such as adjusting the temperature or turning up the volume using their voice – all while keeping their hands on the wheel,
The use of voice commands not only reduces distractions but also ensures that essential features remain easily accessible.
Stay Connected Wherever the Road Leads
OnStar enables a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot that allows multiple devices to connect at the same time with the right data plans.
dubizzle’s team used the full-size SUV to pick up guests from the airport, and on the drive back, the built-in hotspot proved especially handy, enabling guests to catch up on emails from the passenger seat, upload stories and stream their favorite music with ease.
Support, Just a Button Away
Drivers can access round-the-clock support with just the push of a button. It allows drivers or passengers to report accidents, medical situations or road emergencies directly from the vehicle.
While driving the Denali on the highway, our driver received a low tyre pressure alert and pressed the blue button to request assistance. A trained OnStar Advisor responded immediately, stayed on the call, and arranged for roadside support without delay. It’s a much-needed feature, especially when driving long distances.
Confidence You Can Count On
OnStar is not just about advanced features or in-car connectivity; it’s about support when it’s needed most. Whether it’s a routine commute or an emergency, the system is designed to assist, protect and simplify the drive.
The advanced in-vehicle OnStar technology is now available across most Chevrolet, Cadillac and GMC models in the region. To activate it, simply press the blue OnStar button or visit your nearest dealer.
This is what OnStar brings to the GMC Yukon Denali—an integrated suite of connectivity, safety and convenience features. Available across most new and used GMC vehicles for sale in the UAE, starting 2021, including the Yukon, it’s a feature well worth considering for those seeking convenience and added peace of mind on the road. Activate to experience OnStar services throughout the trial period.
Stay connected with dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on tech-forward features.
Cover Image Credit: gmcarabia.com
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