In the ever-evolving landscape of American automotive preferences, diesel engines have taken a backseat. Once hailed for their torque-heavy performance and fuel-sipping efficiency, they've been overshadowed by the rise of hybrids, electrics, and turbocharged gas powertrains. Stricter emissions regulations, coupled with scandals like Dieselgate, have pushed many manufacturers to phase out diesel options altogether. Pickup trucks and heavy-duty haulers still cling to the technology, but for everyday drivers seeking that perfect blend of power, economy, and longevity? Options feel slim to none. It's easy to assume the golden era of great diesels is over—relegated to memories of rumbling semis on the interstate or vintage European sedans that never quite caught on stateside.
Yet, whispers persist among enthusiasts: Could there still be a diesel gem hiding in plain sight? One that defies the odds, delivering the kind of real-world efficiency that makes long road trips feel effortless, without the constant worry of breakdowns or sky-high maintenance costs? Imagine a vehicle that sips fuel like a compact car but hauls like a beast, all while promising durability that outlasts the competition. In a market flooded with short-lived tech gadgets on wheels, this standout proves that diesel isn't dead—it's just evolved. We've scoured the options, tested the contenders, and uncovered what might just be the best diesel you can buy right now in the USA. Buckle up; this one's a game-changer.
Enter the 2025 GMC Yukon XL Duramax—a full-size SUV that redefines what a modern diesel can be. Powered by GM's refined 3.0-liter inline-six Duramax diesel engine, this beast combines brute strength with surprising sophistication. Towing up to 8,200 pounds? No problem. But where it truly shines is in fuel efficiency that rivals smaller crossovers. We're talking over 20 mpg in city driving—yes, you read that right—for a vehicle that seats up to nine and swallows gear like a black hole. On the highway, it pushes past 30 mpg, making cross-country jaunts not just feasible but downright economical. Forget frequent fill-ups; this Yukon XL stretches every gallon, thanks to advanced turbocharging, precise fuel injection, and a 10-speed automatic transmission that keeps the engine in its sweet spot.
Durability is another hallmark, setting the Yukon XL Duramax apart in a throwaway culture. Built on GM's proven full-size truck platform, it's engineered to endure. The timing chain-driven setup means no belt replacements until at least 200,000 miles, minimizing downtime and repair bills. Real-world owners report these engines soldiering on well beyond that, with proper maintenance. The chassis is robust, suspension tuned for both comfort and capability, and the interior? Luxurious Denali trims offer heated/ventilated seats, a massive infotainment screen, and Super Cruise hands-free driving. Safety features abound, from adaptive cruise to automatic emergency braking.
But it's not just about specs—it's the experience. That low-end torque surge pins you back during merges, while the quiet cabin isolates you from the diesel clatter of yore. In a world chasing electrification, the Yukon XL Duramax reminds us why diesels endure: unmatched range for adventurers, cost savings for families, and reliability for the long haul. Priced starting around $70,000, it's an investment in longevity. Thought diesels were done? This one's proof they're better than ever.
FYI, we chose the Yukon because for some reason Chevy is brain-dead and doesn't offer smart cruise on the Diesel Tahoe or Suburban. Otherwise, the Z71 would have been our choice.
Hopefully for 2026, they fix that.