The 2017 GMC Acadia FWD 3.6L gets 21 MPG combined. Many suburban families accept this as the cost of hauling kids, cargo, and occasionally towing a small boat. This generation Acadia shrunk slightly compared to its predecessor, but it still offers three rows and a useful amount of space, making fuel economy more of a consideration than a priority.

City and highway performance

The Acadia’s 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway ratings reflect its intended usage. The city figure suggests frequent stop-and-go driving will reduce fuel economy, while the highway number is achievable on longer road trips, especially if driven conservatively. The 3.6L V6, while adequate for everyday driving, needs to work harder to move a loaded Acadia, impacting fuel consumption in urban environments. On the open road, the relatively tall sixth gear helps keep the engine running efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,100 for the 2017 GMC Acadia FWD 3.6L. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Individual results will vary depending on driving habits, location, and current fuel costs. However, this provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Acadia to other similarly sized SUVs. As fuel prices fluctuate, this number will also change, but always consider it relative to other vehicles in this segment.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Acadia drivers often see numbers slightly lower than the sticker, particularly in areas with heavy traffic or hilly terrain. Consistent use of the air conditioning, aggressive acceleration, and carrying significant weight can all reduce fuel efficiency. Some drivers report exceeding the EPA highway figure when driving long distances at a steady speed.

Monitoring your own driving habits and fuel consumption is critical to understanding your Acadia’s actual fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2017 Acadia’s fuel economy places it roughly in the middle of the three-row SUV pack. A Honda Pilot, for example, with its 3.5L V6 and FWD, often achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined. A Toyota Highlander with the 3.5L V6 engine also betters the Acadia with an EPA combined rating of 22 MPG. Other competitors, like the Ford Explorer with its base 2.3L EcoBoost engine and FWD, manages 22 MPG combined. Checking ACADIA MPG across all years shows how this generation stacks up against older and newer models. The difference of even 1 or 2 MPG combined can add up over the years. For those considering other GMC models, it’s useful to look at all Gmc fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Proper tire inflation can have a noticeable impact on your Acadia’s fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure it matches the recommended PSI found on the tire placard, usually located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient at restarting, so turning off the engine during extended stops, such as waiting in a parking lot or sitting at a long traffic light, can save fuel. The Acadia doesn’t have auto stop/start, so it’s entirely up to the driver to remember to turn off the engine.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Acadia’s 3.6L engine responds well to gentle throttle inputs. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel and decrease overall efficiency.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Hauling unnecessary cargo puts additional strain on the engine. Regularly declutter your Acadia, removing any items you don’t need on a day-to-day basis. Every extra pound adds up and affects fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unintentional acceleration and deceleration that can negatively affect fuel economy. It’s particularly useful on long, flat stretches of highway where it can contribute to a noticeable improvement in MPG.