The 2025 Cadillac XT5 AWD with its 3.6L V6 engine gets 21 MPG combined. This isn’t a hybrid, and it doesn’t try to be one. Consider this fuel consumption the cost for those wanting a smooth, strong engine and all-wheel drive in a comfortable, stylish vehicle. XT5 buyers want luxury and practicality and are willing to accept moderate fuel efficiency as part of the deal.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2025 Cadillac XT5 AWD with the 3.6L V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission gets 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure is more telling. Stop-and-go driving highlights the V6’s thirst, and the XT5’s weight doesn’t help. The highway number is more respectable, showing that the engine can cruise efficiently once at speed, thanks to the transmission’s tall top gears.

Realistically, many XT5s spend their time navigating city traffic, making that 18 MPG city number the most relevant for many owners.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Cadillac XT5 AWD at exactly $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Remember this is an estimate, and your fuel costs will vary based on your driving, where you drive, and where you live because fuel prices differ by state. Still, the $2,100 offers a way to understand the XT5’s fuel consumption relative to other vehicles. It’s the price you pay for the V6’s confident power and the traction of all-wheel drive.

Real-world expectations

Getting the EPA’s numbers requires effort. Drive aggressively, and the MPG drops quickly. Expect lower numbers in cold weather, especially with winter tires. However, on long highway trips, achieving or exceeding the 26 MPG highway figure is possible.

Owners in hilly areas will likely see a lower combined MPG because of increased engine load.

How it compares

The 2025 Cadillac XT5 AWD 3.6L sits in the middle compared to competitors. The Lexus RX 350 AWD gets a slightly better 25 MPG combined in real world testing. The Acura MDX SH-AWD, a larger vehicle, gets around 22 MPG combined in many user tests. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, with its turbo-4 engine, delivers closer to 24 MPG combined. These small differences add up and influence a buyer’s decision. Consider all Cadillac fuel economy data or learn about XT5 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking help maximize fuel economy in the XT5. Avoid aggressive starts and hard stops, which require energy and lower MPG. Anticipate traffic to minimize braking.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly, using the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need long warm-ups. Idling wastes fuel, especially in cities. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Consistent speed improves fuel economy on long drives. Cruise control avoids speed fluctuations and provides more efficient operation.

Remove unnecessary weight. Extra cargo increases weight, which reduces fuel economy. Empty the trunk of unneeded items. A lighter vehicle is more efficient.