The 2017 GMC Yukon K1500 XL 4WD with the 5.3L V8 gets 18 MPG combined. If you’re concerned above all with fuel efficiency, this truck isn’t for you. People buy it for its large passenger and cargo area, its ability to tow, and its strong, truck-based design. The fuel economy isn’t the best in its class, but it’s a trade-off for significant utility.

City and highway performance

The 2017 Yukon XL 4WD, which has the 5.3L V8 and six-speed automatic transmission, gets an EPA-estimated 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the realities of moving a vehicle that weighs close to three tons. Stop-and-go driving, with its constant acceleration and braking, uses a lot of gas. Highway cruising, which lets the engine keep a more consistent speed, is more efficient. These numbers might not impress, but they were competitive for this segment when the car was released.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 GMC Yukon K1500 XL 4WD is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Note that your actual fuel costs could be different depending on how you drive, where you drive, and how much gas costs in your area. While $2,450 per year is a lot, YUKON MPG across all years show that older models cost even more and that the annual cost is predictable.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy is often different. Drivers have said that getting the advertised 22 MPG on the highway is possible if you drive carefully, avoid accelerating quickly, and keep a steady speed. However, city MPG often goes below the EPA’s 15 MPG estimate, especially in crowded areas. Towing, even small trailers, will greatly reduce fuel economy and could drop it into the single digits.

Remember that this vehicle works best with smooth, careful driving. Quick acceleration will reduce fuel efficiency. Visit all Gmc fuel economy data here at FuelEconomyHub.

How it compares

Other full-size SUVs have similar gas mileage, though sometimes slightly better. The 2017 Ford Expedition 4×4 with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 got about one extra MPG in combined driving, but that engine needed premium fuel, which eliminated any cost savings. The Chevrolet Suburban, which is similar to the Yukon XL, usually has the same fuel economy numbers because they share the same engine. Compared to the Toyota Sequoia 4×4, which gets a poor 15 MPG combined, the Yukon XL is slightly more economical.

For buyers who really need the size and capability of a full-size SUV, the fuel economy differences are often less important than other things like features, comfort, and brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Make sure your tires have the right amount of air. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and use more gas. Check your tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes, because this can change the pressure a lot.

Avoid driving aggressively by accelerating or braking hard. Keep a steady speed and watch the traffic to reduce braking and acceleration. On the highway, use cruise control to keep a consistent speed and improve fuel economy.

Reduce extra weight. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s load, making the engine expend more energy. Remove items you don’t need, especially heavy ones. Even small amounts of weight can impact fuel economy.

Only use the Yukon’s “Tow/Haul” mode when towing or hauling heavy loads. This mode changes the transmission’s shift points to give more power and control, but it can reduce fuel economy during normal driving. Only use the “Tow/Haul” mode when you need it to optimize fuel efficiency when not towing.

Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Regular maintenance, like oil and air filter changes and spark plug replacements, can make sure your engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs better. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to keep your Yukon XL in top condition.