23 MPG combined won’t win any green awards, but for the 2022 GMC Yukon 2WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel, it’s an impressive figure. This is a full-size SUV designed for families with space needs, those who regularly tow, or those who simply prefer the commanding presence of a large vehicle. Fuel economy is likely not at the very top of their priority list, but it’s a welcome bonus when it’s this respectable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 GMC Yukon 2WD 3.0L are 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. That highway number is noteworthy because it demonstrates the efficiency of the Duramax diesel when cruising at constant speeds. The 10-speed automatic transmission also plays a crucial role, keeping the engine in its optimal rev range for both power delivery and fuel conservation. For owners who spend the majority of their time on interstates or rural highways, the Yukon 3.0L can deliver surprisingly efficient long-distance travel.

In city driving, the stop-and-go nature naturally takes a toll, but even then, 21 MPG is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and weight. The key here is smooth acceleration; avoid aggressive throttle inputs, and you’ll see closer to the EPA estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2022 GMC Yukon 2WD 3.0L. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions in which you operate the vehicle. Fuel costs will rise dramatically if you frequently tow heavy loads or spend a significant amount of time idling.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. The 2022 Yukon 2WD 3.0L’s MPG will depend heavily on driving style and conditions. Frequent short trips, aggressive acceleration, and heavy loads will all decrease fuel economy. Conversely, gentle driving habits and mostly highway miles can result in figures that meet or even exceed the EPA estimates. Owners who actively monitor their fuel economy and make conscious efforts to drive efficiently often report results that are better than expected.

How it compares

The Yukon 2WD 3.0L distinguishes itself when compared to other full-size SUVs. Consider the Chevrolet Tahoe, essentially the Yukon’s corporate cousin. The Tahoe’s 2WD version with the 5.3L V8 engine manages only 17 MPG combined, highlighting the impressive efficiency gain from the diesel. Even the Ford Expedition, a key competitor, achieves around 19 MPG combined with its turbocharged EcoBoost V6. The Nissan Armada, with its naturally aspirated V8, typically struggles to reach even 16 MPG combined. The YUKON MPG across all years represents a fuel economy leader among its competitors. For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency in a full-size SUV, the 2022 Yukon 2WD 3.0L stands out as a clear frontrunner, specifically because the diesel engine offers a substantial advantage over the gas-powered alternatives common in this segment. For all Gmc fuel economy data, this Yukon’s MPG figures stand proud.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed helps avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which are detrimental to fuel efficiency. The Yukon’s 10-speed transmission will handle minor grade changes efficiently.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any items from the trunk or cargo area that you don’t need on a regular basis. Every extra pound adds up over time and affects mileage.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, so try to schedule your trips during off-peak hours or choose routes with fewer traffic lights.

Warm up the engine gently. In cold weather, it’s best to let the engine idle for a minute or two before driving to allow the oil to circulate properly. However, avoid excessive idling, as this wastes fuel.