24 MPG combined is a respectable figure for the 2022 GMC Acadia AWD equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This isn’t a fuel-sipping compact crossover, nor is it a lumbering full-size SUV. It occupies a middle ground: a practical, three-row vehicle aimed at families who need space and flexibility but aren’t willing to sacrifice maneuverability and reasonable fuel costs. Buyers accept this fuel economy because it aligns well with the Acadia’s mission as a comfortable and capable family hauler, not an economy champion.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 GMC Acadia AWD 2.0L achieves 22 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the Acadia’s weight and larger footprint; stop-and-go traffic increases fuel consumption. However, the highway number is surprisingly strong because of the efficiency of the 9-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably. This makes the Acadia a decent road trip companion, especially considering its comfortable interior and ample cargo space. It’s not going to break any efficiency records, but it won’t negatively impact your wallet on long drives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 GMC Acadia AWD 2.0L to be precisely $1,800. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. The EPA also uses the national average fuel price to arrive at this figure. It’s important to remember this is just an estimation, Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you frequent, and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. Still, $1,800 provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Acadia’s running costs against other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy can deviate. Acadia owners report figures slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in areas with heavy traffic congestion or hilly terrain. If your daily commute involves significant stop-and-go conditions, expect to see numbers closer to 20-21 MPG in mixed driving. However, on longer highway stretches, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 27 MPG rating is possible with mindful driving. Fuel economy depends on how and where you drive, so aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will significantly impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2022 GMC Acadia AWD 2.0L is in a competitive segment. For comparison, the Toyota Highlander AWD with its 2.5L hybrid achieves a combined 35 MPG, a significant advantage in fuel efficiency, even with a higher initial price. The Honda Pilot AWD, similarly sized to the Acadia, manages around 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine. Even the Kia Telluride AWD, known for its value and spaciousness, lands in a similar MPG range to the Acadia: about 21-23 MPG combined. The Acadia’s 24 MPG positions it as an acceptable, but not class-leading, choice. Buyers interested in all all Gmc fuel economy data should consider the Acadia’s balance of features, space, and fuel economy. Those prioritizing maximum efficiency may be drawn to the Toyota, while those prioritizing power at a similar efficiency might like the Honda or Kia. You can also compare ACADIA MPG across all years to see if a different year model will assist you.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Acadia’s 2.0L turbo engine delivers decent power when you need it, but it’s most efficient when driven smoothly. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help you keep the turbocharger from constantly increasing RPM, which consumes extra fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long drives is key to maximizing fuel economy. Cruise control helps prevent unnecessary fluctuations in speed, which can waste fuel without you even realizing it. The Acadia’s adaptive cruise control is especially helpful in maintaining a safe following distance and smooth speed adjustments.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, requiring the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. This seemingly small detail can make a noticeable difference even on short drives.

Minimize idling time. Idling gets you zero miles per gallon. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The Acadia’s engine stop/start system automatically does this in certain situations, but you can manually shut it off in other cases, such as waiting in a parking lot or at a long traffic light.

Lighten your load. Carrying unnecessary weight reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the cargo area that you don’t need on a regular basis. This includes things like extra tools, sports equipment, or anything else that adds unnecessary bulk to the vehicle.