22 MPG combined for the 2022 GMC Yukon 4WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine is a good number, especially considering it’s a full-size, body-on-frame SUV that can comfortably carry up to eight people and tow large loads. It won’t win any awards for less gas used, but it doesn’t burn gas as quickly as you might expect given its size. This fuel economy figure is a balance between capability and consumption, a compromise typical Yukon buyers often accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway for the combined 22 MPG rating. The city number shows the effects of stop-and-go driving, where the Yukon’s weight and frontal area hurt fuel economy. The diesel’s torque helps it get moving, but frequent acceleration and braking reduce fuel consumption. On the open road, the 10-speed automatic transmission works well, letting the engine cruise at low RPMs for maximum efficiency. That 26 MPG highway rating is achievable on long trips, especially if you avoid constantly passing other cars.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2022 GMC Yukon 4WD 3.0L diesel is $2,550. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using an estimate of national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel cost will change depending on where and how you drive, as well as local diesel prices. However, $2,550 gives you a benchmark for comparing the Yukon’s fuel costs to other vehicles. For families who want space, towing capacity, and all-weather capability first, that number may be a reasonable cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Drivers who often tow trailers, live in hilly areas, or accelerate quickly will likely see lower numbers. Those who mainly use the Yukon for highway driving and drive efficiently might get better than the EPA estimates. The 22 MPG combined is an average, and your mileage will depend on your driving conditions and habits. Watch your trip computer and calculate your fuel economy manually over several tanks to get a real idea of the Yukon’s fuel cost.

How it compares

The Yukon’s diesel fuel economy is good compared to its gasoline-powered options. The 5.3L V8 Yukon 4WD, for example, gets only 17 MPG combined. The diesel engine costs more at first, but the fuel savings can make up for it over time, especially for those who drive a lot. Compared to competitors, the Yukon’s diesel is an advantage. The Ford Expedition with its EcoBoost V6 has similar power and space, but gets only about 19 MPG combined in 4WD. The Chevrolet Tahoe, similar to the Yukon mechanically, gets almost the same fuel economy with the same diesel engine. For buyers who want fuel efficiency in the full-size SUV class, the 2022 YUKON MPG across all years with the 3.0L diesel is a winner.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use the Yukon’s smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Accelerate gently and anticipate traffic, allowing the transmission to shift up quickly and keep the engine in its most efficient range. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, which use more fuel.

Keep your tires inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and hurt fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended level, on the sticker inside the driver’s side door frame. This is important when towing.

Reduce extra weight. Extra cargo increases the Yukon’s load, making the engine work harder. Remove anything you don’t need, like sports equipment or tools, to improve fuel efficiency. This is especially true if you drive the Yukon to work every day.

Don’t idle. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars, including the Yukon, restart quickly and easily, saving fuel.

Think about your driving mode. The Yukon has different driving modes, including off-road settings, but the standard “Normal” mode is usually the most fuel-efficient for everyday driving. Avoid using four-wheel drive unless you need it, because it increases friction and reduces MPG. For all Gmc fuel economy data the standard driving mode tends to perform best in dry road conditions.