The GMC Yukon V with the 3.0 Duramax diesel engine, producing 277 horsepower, was a configuration offered from the 2020 to 2024 model years. This variant occupied a significant position within the fifth generation (2021-present) Yukon lineup, bridging the gap between the base gasoline engines and the more powerful 6.2-liter V8. It aimed to provide a balance of capability, fuel efficiency, and refinement for buyers seeking a full-size SUV with diesel power. The Yukon V series represented GMC’s attempt to offer a more premium experience compared to its Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban siblings, with enhanced styling and features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Yukon |
| Generation | Yukon V |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 Duramax (277 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 277 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 624 Nm @ 1500 rpm (460.24 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Duramax |
| Engine displacement | 2993 cm3 (182.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 20.7 l (21.87 US qt | 18.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2515 kg (5544.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3493 kg (7700.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 978 kg (2156.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 716 l (25.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3480 l (122.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3583 kg (7899.16 lbs.) |
| Length | 5334 mm (210 in.) |
| Width | 2057 mm (80.98 in.) |
| Height | 1943 mm (76.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3071 mm (120.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 10 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Yukon V 3.0 Duramax is the GM LG0 engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The Duramax engine features a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to meet stringent emissions standards. The 10-speed automatic transmission (10L80) is a key component, offering a wide gear ratio spread for both fuel economy and towing capability. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque provided by the 3.0 Duramax engine delivered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the gasoline-powered Yukon models. While not as overtly powerful as the 6.2-liter V8, the diesel offered significantly more low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The 10-speed automatic transmission helped keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing smooth acceleration. Fuel economy was a major advantage, particularly during highway driving. Compared to the 5.3L V8, the Duramax offered a substantial improvement in MPG. However, the diesel engine did exhibit some turbo lag, and the overall driving experience was more focused on effortless capability than outright sportiness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Yukon V 3.0 Duramax was typically offered in SLE, SLT, and AT4 trim levels. The SLE served as the entry-level option, featuring standard amenities like tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features. The SLT trim added leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and additional chrome exterior accents. The AT4 trim, geared towards off-road enthusiasts, included features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and enhanced four-wheel-drive capabilities. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Chassis & Braking
The Yukon V 3.0 Duramax utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension system consisted of an independent front suspension with coil springs and a multi-link independent rear suspension. The braking system featured ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Yukon V also included an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) as standard equipment. Due to the increased weight of the diesel engine, the Yukon V’s suspension was often tuned slightly firmer than its gasoline counterparts to maintain stability and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Yukon V 3.0 Duramax received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. The engine was praised for its fuel efficiency and strong towing capacity. However, some reviewers noted that the diesel engine was somewhat noisy compared to gasoline engines. Compared to the 5.3-liter V8, the Duramax offered better fuel economy and torque, but less overall horsepower. Against the 6.2-liter V8, the Duramax traded outright power for improved efficiency and a lower price point. The Yukon V’s positioning as a premium full-size SUV helped it appeal to buyers seeking a refined and capable vehicle.
Legacy
The 3.0 Duramax engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with few widespread issues reported. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, the Yukon V 3.0 Duramax holds its value well, particularly among buyers seeking a capable tow vehicle or a fuel-efficient full-size SUV. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and DPF servicing, is crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain. The Yukon V 3.0 Duramax represents a significant step forward in diesel technology for full-size SUVs, offering a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and refinement.
