The 2024 GMC Yukon XL 2WD with the 5.3L V8 achieves 17 MPG combined. While this extended-length SUV isn’t known for great gas mileage, it’s valued for its spacious interior, towing capacity, and ability to transport many passengers and their cargo long distances. The fuel consumption is simply one of the costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Yukon XL 2WD gets 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the impact of stop-and-go driving on a large, heavy vehicle. In city driving, the 5.3L V8 has to work harder, accelerating from a stop frequently, which eliminates any potential fuel-saving benefits from the 10-speed automatic transmission. However, the engine operates most efficiently at the highway’s constant speed, and the gearing balances the aerodynamic drag.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 GMC Yukon XL 2WD at $2,600. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will change, depending on your driving habits and local gasoline prices. Consider it a reasonable comparison against other similar vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures offer a standard, but real-world fuel economy for the Yukon XL relies heavily on driving style, load, and terrain. If you accelerate aggressively, brake a lot, and carry heavy loads, your MPG will drop. If you drive smoothly, anticipate braking, and minimize cargo weight, you can get closer to the EPA estimates, even though exceeding them can be difficult. Expect much lower fuel economy when towing a trailer.

How it compares

The GMC Yukon XL 2WD doesn’t have the best fuel economy. The Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD has the same platform and engine and delivers similar EPA figures, making it a direct comparison. The 6.2L V8 in the Yukon XL Denali usually results in slightly worse fuel economy. If you want better fuel efficiency in a three-row SUV, the Toyota Sequoia hybrid gets 22 MPG combined. However, its towing capacity and interior space aren’t quite as large as the Yukon XL’s, meaning shoppers must choose between volume and efficiency. For all GMC fuel economy data, remember the trade-offs that every vehicle has. Even smaller SUVs like the Ford Explorer (21 MPG combined for the base model) don’t have the same passenger and cargo room.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 5.3L V8 has plenty of power, so there’s no need to push the accelerator hard. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will significantly improve your fuel economy. Use less fuel to get the heavy SUV moving.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level. This simple step can affect fuel consumption, especially on long highway trips.

Minimize cargo weight. Every extra pound requires more energy to move. Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce its overall weight. That third-row seat you only use twice a year? Take it out. The less weight, the better the gas mileage.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This is especially helpful on long, flat stretches of highway. Watch traffic conditions and be prepared to turn off cruise control when needed. Are you thinking about YUKON MPG across all years?

Consider your route. Choose routes that have less stop-and-go traffic and fewer steep hills, if possible. The Yukon XL’s weight makes it less efficient in those conditions. Planning your route can save you fuel and time.