22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but it’s a respectable figure for the 2023 GMC Yukon XL 4WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel. This isn’t a vehicle for zipping around town efficiently; it’s a full-size, body-on-frame SUV designed for hauling families, cargo, and trailers in comfort and, with 4WD, through challenging conditions. If you’re buying a Yukon XL, practicality and capability are far higher priorities than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of fuel. This diesel engine makes living with a large SUV a little less painful at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 GMC Yukon XL 4WD 3.0L diesel to achieve 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure is naturally lower, reflecting the stop-and-go driving that plagues fuel economy in any vehicle. This engine’s readily available torque helps get this large SUV moving without excessive throttle input. Out on the open road, the 26 MPG rating reveals the diesel’s efficiency advantage. The 10-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, maximizing fuel economy during steady-state cruising. Highway mileage is where the Duramax shines, making long road trips significantly more affordable than they would be in a gasoline-powered Yukon XL.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 GMC Yukon XL 4WD 3.0L diesel is $2,550. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. It’s an estimate, of course, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions in which you operate the vehicle. But it provides a useful baseline for comparing the Yukon XL’s running costs with those of other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a consistent benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Owners report that achieving the EPA’s 26 MPG highway rating is certainly possible on long trips, especially when driving conservatively. However, heavy towing, frequent short trips, or aggressive driving will all depress fuel economy. City driving, particularly in congested areas, will likely result in figures closer to, or even slightly below, the EPA’s 20 MPG estimate. Overall, expect to see somewhere in the low-to-mid 20s during mixed driving, with the highway number providing the most opportunity for exceeding expectations.

How it compares

Compared to its gasoline-powered siblings, the 2023 Yukon XL 4WD with the 3.0L diesel is a clear winner in terms of fuel economy. The 5.3L V8 4WD version returns a combined 16 MPG, while the 6.2L V8 manages only 15 MPG combined. Even the RWD versions of these engines struggle to match the diesel’s efficiency. Against competitors, the diesel Yukon XL fares reasonably well. The Ford Expedition Max with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 achieves around 17 MPG combined with 4WD, making the Yukon XL diesel a more economical choice. For those prioritizing fuel economy above all else, consider the Chevrolet Tahoe or Suburban diesel, which achieve slightly better MPG due to their typically lower curb weight. You can see YUKON MPG across all years on our dedicated model page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Yukon XL’s smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow allows the transmission to upshift early and keep the engine in its most efficient range. Avoiding sudden bursts of speed will significantly improve fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Minimize idling, especially during cold starts. Modern diesel engines warm up relatively quickly, and prolonged idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, it’s best to switch off the engine.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips, to maintain optimal efficiency. Also, be aware of the impact of larger, off-road tires, which can negatively affect fuel economy due to their increased weight and rolling resistance.

When towing, use the Tow/Haul mode. This mode optimizes the transmission shift points for hauling heavy loads, preventing the engine from working harder than necessary. While towing will always decrease fuel economy, using the Tow/Haul mode can help minimize the impact.

Proper maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Regularly scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements ensure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Addressing any mechanical issues promptly can also prevent minor problems from escalating and impacting fuel consumption. Be sure to explore all Gmc fuel economy data on our site.