GMC Yukon vs Chevrolet Traverse
The GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Traverse are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 23 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Across 3 measured categories, the Chevrolet Traverse leads in 2. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2026
GMC Yukon
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 164 configurations
2015–2027
Chevrolet Traverse
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD · 30 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | GMC Yukon | Chevrolet Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 21 mpg ✓ | 20 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $3,250 | $2,650 ✓ |
| Lowest CO2 output | 437 g/mi | 387 g/mi ✓ |
| Engines offered | 3.0, SIDI, SIDI; Stop-Start, SIDI; FFV | SIDI |
| Transmissions | Automatic 10-spd, Automatic 6-spd, Automatic 8-spd | Automatic 8-spd, Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 6-spd |
| Drivetrains | 4-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Diesel, Regular, Premium | Regular, Premium |
| EPA class | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 164 | 30 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
Yukon vs Traverse: common questions
Which is better on gas, the GMC Yukon or the Chevrolet Traverse?
The GMC Yukon and Chevrolet Traverse are evenly matched on fuel economy — both peak at 23 mpg combined — so the decision comes down to engine choice, drivetrain, and class.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Chevrolet Traverse runs about $2,650 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $3,250 for the GMC Yukon — a difference of roughly $600 per year.
What engines do the Yukon and Traverse offer?
GMC Yukon: 3.0, SIDI, SIDI; Stop-Start, SIDI; FFV. Chevrolet Traverse: SIDI.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
The EPA classifies the GMC Yukon as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD and the Chevrolet Traverse as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD, so they aren't a like-for-like match on size.
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Comparison id: gmc-yukon-vs-chevrolet-traverse