17 MPG combined hardly makes the 2017 GMC Yukon C1500 XL 2WD 6.2L a fuel sipper, but let’s be honest: No one buying this extended-length, rear-wheel-drive vehicle is expecting Prius-like efficiency. This Yukon XL configuration caters to a specific buyer, those who need maximum passenger and cargo space, and the reliable towing capability of a traditional, truck-based SUV. Fuel economy is a secondary concern; utility and capability are important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Yukon XL 6.2L at 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The discrepancy shows the engine’s nature. Around town, the big V8 has to work harder to get the hefty Yukon moving, leading to lower numbers. On the open road, at a steady cruise, the engine loafs along, and the 8-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel use. Stop-and-go traffic and hard acceleration will drastically reduce your city mileage. Long highway trips at consistent speeds will yield numbers closer to the EPA estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,600 for this Yukon XL configuration. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price, which fluctuates. While this provides a benchmark for comparison, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. For families that rack up serious mileage on road trips, the annual spend could easily exceed this EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

Let’s discuss real-world scenarios, forget the EPA numbers for a moment. Expect even lower MPG if you frequently tow a boat or trailer, especially in hilly terrain. Short trips around town and aggressive driving habits will also negatively impact your fuel economy. However, if you drive mostly highway miles at moderate speeds, you might see numbers closer to the EPA estimate. This 6.2L engine rewards a light foot. This isn’t to say that this truck isn’t a road-trip warrior, but expect to stop more frequently for gas than with a smaller SUV or crossover.

How it compares

The 2017 Yukon XL 6.2L’s fuel economy sits within a predictable range, compared to other large SUVs. The Ford Expedition, another full-size, truck-based SUV, achieves similar numbers in its EcoBoost guise. A Chevrolet Suburban with the smaller 5.3L V8 delivers similar combined MPG, proving that even a smaller displacement engine struggles with the significant weight and size of these vehicles. Even with newer engines and transmissions, you won’t see a dramatic improvement in this segment, and you can view YUKON MPG across all years to see the historical range. A smaller, more car-like crossover SUV like a Honda Pilot (23 MPG combined) or Toyota Highlander (24 MPG combined) offer significantly better mileage for buyers prioritizing fuel economy. However, these vehicles lack the Yukon XL’s towing capacity and sheer interior volume, making it a trade-off some buyers aren’t willing to make when they need the specific capabilities this large SUV offers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 6.2L V8 provides ample power, but using the throttle too quickly only wastes fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will help keep you in the engine’s most efficient operating range. Anticipate traffic conditions and avoid unnecessary braking. Coasting to a stop whenever possible conserves momentum and fuel.

Maintain your tires at the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area to minimize the load on the engine. Also, remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use, as they can significantly increase aerodynamic drag.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed helps optimize fuel efficiency. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may constantly downshift to maintain speed, which can negate any fuel savings.

Proper maintenance of the engine is critical. Dirty air filters or aging spark plugs can have a negative impact on fuel economy and performance. Keep your Yukon according to the scheduled maintenance guide located in the owner’s manual, and view all Gmc fuel economy data to compare this model with others.