The 2015 GMC Acadia AWD with the 3.6L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. This figure isn’t the best or the worst in the three-row SUV segment, but Acadia buyers usually expect this. Families that buy the Acadia typically want space, comfort, and all-weather capability over pure fuel efficiency. The Acadia is for hauling kids, cargo, and even towing a small trailer, and its fuel consumption reflects those needs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 GMC Acadia AWD gets 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure is lower because the Acadia’s weight and conventional six-speed automatic transmission aren’t ideal for stop-and-go driving. The 23 MPG highway estimate is better, showing the Acadia can get decent fuel economy on longer drives, especially at a consistent speed. However, that number will drop if you frequently load the Acadia or drive in hilly areas, conditions that make the engine work harder.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 GMC Acadia AWD is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price when the EPA tested it. Fuel prices change, and driving habits vary. If you drive fewer miles or get better fuel economy than the EPA estimates, your actual fuel cost will be lower. Short trips, aggressive driving, or using all-wheel drive often can increase your yearly fuel expense.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are standardized, but real-world MPG for the 2015 GMC Acadia AWD often varies. Many owners report getting numbers close to the EPA estimates under normal driving. Reduce fuel economy by regularly driving fast, taking mostly short trips, and carrying heavy loads. Tire pressure, car maintenance, and fuel type can also influence MPG. Expect 15-20 MPG in mixed city and highway driving for many Acadia owners, but individual results depend on driving conditions and habits.

How it compares

The 2015 GMC Acadia’s fuel economy is in the middle of the three-row SUV group. The front-wheel-drive version is slightly more efficient, but many buyers choose AWD for better security in bad weather. A 2015 Toyota Highlander AWD with its 3.5L V6 gets 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, slightly better than the Acadia on the highway. The older body style Dodge Durango with its 3.6L V6 and AWD landed at 17/24, similar to the Acadia, but with less interior room. The 2015 Acura MDX SH-AWD gets 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway if you want the best fuel efficiency; however, it is an expensive option. Comparing ACADIA MPG across all years might also be insightful to see later improvements. The Acadia balances fuel economy, space, and capability, and this is its appeal.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2015 GMC Acadia is heavy, so accelerate smoothly and gradually to save fuel. Do not push the gas pedal hard, especially when starting. The 3.6L engine works well with a gentle touch, letting the transmission shift efficiently.

Keep your tires inflated to the pressure on the doorjamb sticker. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially when temperatures change.

Keep idling time to a minimum. The Acadia burns fuel when stopped with the engine on. If you’ll be stopped for over a minute, turn off the engine. It saves fuel.

Plan routes to avoid traffic. Stop-and-go traffic lowers fuel economy. Use navigation apps to avoid traffic and maintain speed to improve MPG.

Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload and reduces fuel efficiency. Remove unneeded items from the cargo area. All of all Gmc fuel economy data can show similar increases, but this vehicle suffers extra due to its high curb weight.