23 MPG combined won’t set any records, but for the 2018 GMC Acadia FWD with the 2.5L 4-cylinder, it’s a practical choice for buyers who want space and functionality more than the best possible gas mileage. This Acadia configuration suits families who need three rows of seating but don’t always haul large amounts of people or cargo. They accept the 4-cylinder’s MPG because it offers access to the Acadia’s well-equipped interior and comfortable ride at a lower price than the V6, and with lower fuel costs in city driving.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Acadia FWD 2.5L are 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the engine’s workload in stop-and-go traffic, showing where the smaller engine can struggle compared to the more powerful V6. The 26 MPG highway number is more appealing, suggesting good efficiency on longer trips at a constant speed. The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, but doesn’t always downshift fast enough when a quick burst of power is needed. This can lead to drivers pressing the accelerator harder, hurting fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2018 GMC Acadia configuration at $1,900 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using the EPA’s combined MPG figure, multiplied by the national average fuel price. This helps in understanding the ongoing cost of ownership. Drivers who drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles, or who experience different fuel prices, will see changes. It’s an estimate, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard test, fuel economy can change based on driving style, terrain, and how well the car is maintained. Expect quick acceleration, frequent hard braking, or constant use of air conditioning to lower fuel efficiency. Also, mountainous terrain and heavy traffic will reduce MPG. Proper maintenance, including correct tire inflation and timely oil changes, is critical to maximizing efficiency and getting as close as possible to the EPA estimates. Cold weather also hurts MPG, especially on short trips before the engine warms up.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row SUVs, the 2018 Acadia 2.5L’s fuel economy is competitive, but not the best. For example, a 2018 Toyota Highlander with its standard V6 engine achieves a combined EPA rating of 22 MPG with FWD. A Kia Sorento offers similar numbers in its four-cylinder version. The Honda Pilot gets around 23 MPG combined for FWD models. The Acadia’s numbers may seem acceptable, but buyers must weigh its fuel economy against its positives: a comfortable interior, attractive styling, and a smaller size than some SUVs. Opting for the Acadia’s V6 engine lowers fuel economy, highlighting the compromise buyers of the 2.5L model are making. If fuel economy is a key factor, buyers looking at all Gmc fuel economy data should also examine the smaller GMC Terrain which offers hybrid options, trading third-row seating for better fuel efficiency. Check the ACADIA MPG across all years for model-year specific mpg information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Because of the Acadia 2.5L’s limited power, avoid fast acceleration. The engine has to work harder to speed up quickly, which reduces fuel economy. Accelerate gently from a stop and keep a consistent speed on the highway for the best results.

Cruise control helps, especially on long highway drives. Using cruise control maintains a constant speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This works well in flat areas, helping to get the best gas mileage. Be careful using it on hills, as the transmission may shift gears often, reducing some of the benefit.

Choose the easiest route. Avoid roads with traffic or frequent stoplights when you can. A slightly longer route with steady traffic is often more fuel-efficient than a shorter route with delays. This saves gas and reduces wear on the car.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires create more resistance, making the engine work harder. Follow the tire pressure numbers on the sticker on the driver’s side door. A portable tire inflator makes this easier.

Keep weight down. Extra cargo in the car adds weight, which affects fuel economy. Remove unneeded items from the trunk or cargo area to reduce the load on the engine. A lighter car is more efficient.