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What is the gas mileage on a 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 HD?

The gasoline-powered version of the 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 HD generally delivers around 10–12 miles per gallon in city driving and about 14–17 miles per gallon on the highway, with 2‑wheel drive models typically doing better than 4‑wheel drive. Real-world results vary based on configuration, payload, and towing.


Understanding the gasoline option and how it affects mileage


The 2017 Sierra 2500 HD offered a 6.0-liter V8 gasoline engine as the standard gas powertrain alongside a turbodiesel option. Transmission and drivetrain choices (2WD vs. 4WD) play a meaningful role in fuel economy, as do cab and bed configurations and whether the truck is carrying a heavy load or towing.


Gas vs. diesel context


Diesel models generally deliver better highway efficiency and superior torque for towing, which can shift the overall miles-per-gallon picture significantly. The figures below focus on the gasoline-powered option, with a note that diesel variants will typically show higher fuel economy in many highway and towing scenarios.


EPA fuel economy estimates


Below are approximate EPA estimates for the 2017 Sierra 2500 HD when equipped with the 6.0L V8 gasoline engine. Actual mileage varies with cab/bed configuration, payload, and whether the truck is 2WD or 4WD.



  • 2WD Regular Cab with 6.0L V8: City about 10 mpg, highway about 16–17 mpg, combined around 12–13 mpg

  • 4WD Regular Cab with 6.0L V8: City about 9–10 mpg, highway about 15–16 mpg, combined around 11–12 mpg

  • 2WD Crew Cab with 6.0L V8: City about 11–12 mpg, highway about 16–18 mpg, combined around 13–14 mpg

  • 4WD Crew Cab with 6.0L V8: City about 10–11 mpg, highway about 15–17 mpg, combined around 12–13 mpg


These ranges provide a baseline for comparing configurations. Your actual numbers will depend on driving style, towing, payload, and road conditions.


Real-world factors that affect mileage


Real-world fuel economy for the Sierra 2500 HD is influenced by how the truck is used. Towing heavy loads, hauling payload, frequent stop-and-go urban driving, and even climate control use can lower mpg compared with EPA estimates. Conversely, steady highway cruising at moderate speeds and well-maintained tires can help maximize efficiency.


Before you buy or lease, consider your typical use case: daily city commuting with light loads will yield different mpg than frequent highway towing or full payload work. Routine maintenance—air and fuel filters, spark plugs, and tire pressure—also plays a role in sustaining expected fuel economy.


Why the fuel economy number matters for buyers


For buyers considering a 2017 Sierra 2500 HD, fuel economy is one of several trade-offs alongside power, payload, and towing capacity. The gasoline 6.0L V8 provides robust power for heavy-duty tasks, but its mpg will lag behind lighter-duty pickups and behind the diesel option when towing or under load. If fuel efficiency is a priority, you may want to compare the diesel Duramax variant or evaluate how often you’ll be towing or carrying heavy payloads.


Quick takeaways for prospective buyers



  • Expect roughly 10–12 mpg in city driving and 14–17 mpg on highways for the gasoline 6.0L V8, depending on configuration.

  • 4WD typically lowers mpg versus 2WD by a noticeable margin, especially under load or towing.

  • Diesel variants offer better towing efficiency and usually higher highway mpg but come with different upfront costs and maintenance considerations.


In sum, the 2017 Sierra 2500 HD’s gas mileage is adequate for a heavy-duty truck but falls short of lighter pickups and modern light-duty hybrids in terms of mpg. If fuel economy is a top priority, weigh the diesel option and your typical use cases carefully.


Summary


The 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 HD with the gasoline 6.0L V8 typically delivers approximately 10–12 mpg city and 14–17 mpg highway, with 2WD models generally ahead of 4WD variants. EPA figures vary by cab/bed configuration and drivetrain, and real-world mileage is strongly influenced by payload, towing, and driving conditions. For those who prioritize fuel economy, a diesel Duramax option often provides better efficiency, especially on highway driving and under load.

What is the gas mileage on a Sierra 2500 6.6 L V8?


The gas mileage for a Sierra 2500 with the 6.6L V8 varies, but real-world figures often range from 13-18 MPG highway and 12-16 MPG combined. Some sources cite official EPA estimates for a 2025 model as 14 MPG city and 19 MPG highway. Towing will significantly lower fuel economy.
 
Fuel economy breakdown

  • Highway: Between 13 and 18 MPG, with some owners reporting reaching or exceeding 19 MPG on long trips. 
  • Mixed driving: Approximately 12-17 MPG. 
  • Towing: Expect much lower mileage, with some owners reporting around 7-8 MPG when towing a camper. 

Factors that influence fuel economy
  • Driving habits: Aggressive driving will reduce fuel economy, while smooth, steady driving on the highway will maximize it.
  • Towing and hauling: Towing heavy loads or hauling significant weight will dramatically decrease your MPG. 
  • Configuration: Different cab and bed configurations, axle ratios, and other options can affect mileage.
  • Conditions: Weather, terrain, and traffic can all have an impact on your fuel economy. 



What year gmc sierra 2500hd to avoid?


Avoid GMC 2500HD models from the first generation (1999–2007) due to poor reliability and electrical issues, the 2007 model year specifically for electrical problems, and some fourth-generation models (2020–present) for issues like infotainment glitches, tailgate problems, and check engine light issues. Additionally, be wary of the 2011 model year due to multiple recalls and the 2015 model year for potential infotainment system problems. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems in the 2024 GMC Sierra: 21sMotor FutureYouTube · Oct 11, 2023
First generation (1999–2007) 

  • General: This generation is known for poor reliability, primarily due to engine issues, and lower crash test scores.
  • 2007: This specific model year is noted for having electrical problems. 

Fourth generation (2020–present)
  • General: This generation has reported issues with the MultiPro tailgate, check engine lights (especially in diesel models), rough shifting, and infotainment glitches. 
  • 2020: Owners reported issues with the airbag system, brakes, and steering. 
  • 2024: Has received multiple recalls, with owner-reported problems including climate control, fuel system, and engine components. 

Other specific years to watch for
  • 2011: This model year is known to have multiple recalls. 
  • 2015: Can be prone to issues with the infotainment system. 



How many miles per gallon does a 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 diesel get?


We saw 14 mpg over the course of our test and 18 mpg on our 200-mile highway test loop.



How many miles per gallon does a GMC 2500HD diesel get?


With the standard gasoline engine, you can expect an average of 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The 2025 Duramax diesel engine offers improved fuel economy, averaging 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway—a notable improvement over the 2024 model.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.