The 2023 Cadillac XT6 with the 3.6L V6 engine and front-wheel drive gets 21 MPG combined. This isn’t great, but it’s also not terrible considering the rise of hybrid and electric SUVs. This fuel economy is what XT6 buyers will experience: people who value American luxury, a comfortable ride, and the practicality of three rows of seating, understanding the third row is best for children.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city for this XT6 configuration. Stop-and-go traffic and the vehicle’s weight of around 4,300 pounds reduce fuel economy. The 26 MPG highway rating is more acceptable. The nine-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine at optimal RPM for efficiency on longer trips, and cylinder deactivation saves fuel when cruising at steady speeds. The XT6 buyer shouldn’t anticipate Prius-like numbers, but these figures should be achievable in normal driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,100 for the 2023 Cadillac XT6 FWD with the 3.6L V6. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Fuel prices change, so individual expenses may vary depending on location and driving habits. $2,100 is a reasonable estimate for how much you can expect to spend each year if you drive an average number of miles in your XT6.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing data, but real-world MPG varies. Factors like driving style, terrain, weather, and even tire pressure impact fuel consumption. Expect slightly lower MPG during cold weather, especially on shorter trips where the engine doesn’t warm up properly. Accelerating quickly also hurts efficiency, as does frequent air conditioning use. However, maintaining proper tire inflation and performing regular maintenance can help you stay closer to the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The Cadillac XT6’s fuel economy is average for its class. The Acura MDX with front-wheel drive gets a slightly better 22 MPG combined, but its styling is more controversial. The Lexus RX 350L, another three-row luxury SUV, also gets 21 MPG. The Infiniti QX60, focusing on elegance and comfort, also gets 21 MPG combined in front-wheel-drive form.

For a more efficient alternative, consider the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring plug-in hybrid, which uses its electric range to achieve superior fuel economy in mixed driving. For buyers weighing these options, all all Cadillac fuel economy data is readily available.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Cadillac XT6 isn’t the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class, but you can improve your gas mileage. Avoid accelerating quickly and drive at a steady speed. Accelerating suddenly uses significantly more fuel than increasing speed gradually.

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure often, primarily when the temperature changes.

Don’t let the engine idle. If you’ll be stopped for over a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars like the XT6 use little fuel when idling, but it adds up over time.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a constant speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This significantly improves fuel economy on longer trips, maximizing the benefits of the nine-speed automatic transmission.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, helps keep your XT6 running efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses less fuel, and the maintenance schedule for the XT6 MPG across all years should be followed.