17 MPG combined is what you’ll get driving a 2018 Cadillac Escalade 4WD with the 6.2L V8. This vehicle isn’t for those trying to use less gas or save money. It’s for people who want space, presence, and towing capacity above all else, and are willing to pay more for it, both when buying it and when filling the tank.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway show how big and heavy the Escalade is. The 6.2L V8 is strong, but it still has to work hard to move this large vehicle, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The 10-speed automatic transmission tries to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but physics wins out. The highway number is respectable, suggesting the Escalade is most efficient when cruising at a consistent speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Cadillac Escalade 4WD 6.2L at $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your costs will vary depending on how you drive and local fuel costs, but this is a good benchmark for potential owners. Premium fuel is recommended which will increase the cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can be very different. If you drive aggressively, tow often, and drive mostly in the city, you’ll likely see numbers closer to the city rating of 14 MPG, or even less. On the other hand, if you mostly drive on the highway and drive conservatively, you might see numbers close to or even a little better than the 21 MPG highway rating. Carrying a heavy load and often using four-wheel drive will also change how much fuel you use. Check out ESCALADE MPG across all years for more data.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles, the Escalade’s fuel economy is about the same as, or a little worse than, other large, body-on-frame SUVs. The Lincoln Navigator, with its 3.5L turbocharged V6, gets a slightly better 18 MPG combined. The Lexus LX 570, with its naturally aspirated V8, gets the same 17 MPG combined as the Escalade. The Infiniti QX80 gets a slightly lower 16 MPG combined. People considering these vehicles often care more about things other than fuel efficiency, but even small differences can add up over time. For comparison to other vehicles from this manufacturer, see all Cadillac fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Escalade’s cylinder deactivation system. This system shuts down cylinders when you don’t need full power, which saves fuel. Watch the driver information center, which shows real-time fuel economy, and change how you drive to keep the system working.

Keep your tires inflated properly. Under-inflated tires make it harder to roll, which uses more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate to the recommended level on the door jamb.

Don’t idle. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The Escalade’s start-stop system can also improve fuel economy in stop-and-go traffic.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra things adds weight and uses more fuel. Remove anything you don’t need from the Escalade to make it lighter.

Avoid driving fast. Accelerating quickly and braking hard uses more fuel. Drive smoothly and watch traffic to avoid sudden stops and starts. Accelerating gently lets the 6.2-liter V8 stay in a more fuel-efficient range.