16 MPG combined. Anyone considering the 2024 GMC Yukon 2WD with the 6.2L V8 should expect this. It’s simply the price to pay for effortless towing, a large interior, and the rumble of a big American V8. The Yukon 6.2L isn’t designed for saving fuel; it’s designed for moving people and cargo in comfort and style.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Yukon’s weight and large engine work against it. The highway number is better, showing the benefits of the 10-speed automatic transmission and cylinder deactivation, which allows the engine to run on fewer cylinders when cruising. Even on the open road, a 20 MPG rating shows that you’re driving a large vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

Expect an estimated annual fuel cost of $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Real-world fuel costs can change based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. If you regularly tow, expect to exceed this estimate. But if you do more highway driving and develop fuel-efficient driving habits, you may be able to come in under this figure. $3,600 is a good number to consider when budgeting for Yukon ownership.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners report that achieving the EPA’s 20 MPG highway number is possible with careful driving, but the 14 MPG city number can be optimistic, especially in congested areas. Towing will drastically reduce fuel economy; expect single-digit MPG when hauling a heavy load. Manage expectations: This Yukon is a capable workhorse, not an economy car, and it uses fuel accordingly.

How it compares

The Yukon 6.2L’s fuel economy places it at the lower end of the large SUV segment. The Chevrolet Tahoe shares similar MPG because it is mechanically similar. A Ford Expedition with its EcoBoost V6 often gets a few MPG better in mixed driving, around 17-18 MPG combined, depending on configuration. Even luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade ESV with its standard 6.2L V8 achieve similar MPG numbers. The Jeep Wagoneer with the standard engine delivers 19 MPG combined. For buyers primarily concerned with fuel economy, these alternatives might be more appealing, but they often lack the specific blend of power, space, and traditional SUV character that draws buyers to the Yukon, as you can see in YUKON MPG across all years.

For the customer base of the 2WD Yukon 6.2L, performance and towing are important, with many using it to regularly tow boats, trailers, or campers. While fuel economy is a consideration, it often takes a back seat to the vehicle’s capabilities and the prestige associated with the GMC brand. These buyers are willing to accept the fuel cost to access the Yukon’s power and functionality. You can explore all Gmc fuel economy data to understand how this vehicle fits into the broader brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive smoothly and allow the Yukon’s 10-speed automatic transmission to shift early, taking advantage of it. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits dramatically reduce fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is especially important in urban environments where stop-and-go traffic is common.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo adds to the vehicle’s weight, decreasing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the Yukon, especially heavy objects like tools, equipment, or sports gear. Even small reductions in weight can make a difference.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. Be mindful of terrain changes, as cruise control can sometimes lead to unnecessary acceleration when climbing hills, resulting in fuel waste.