13 MPG combined. The 2024 Cadillac Escalade V prioritizes performance, presence, and carrying capacity over fuel efficiency, which its buyers value more than saving at the gas pump. The Escalade V is for families with active lifestyles, executives who want a commanding road presence, and anyone who values power and Cadillac’s luxury. For these individuals, the Escalade V is a statement, a rolling office, and a mobile command center that consumes premium gasoline quickly.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Escalade V achieves 11 MPG in city driving and 16 MPG on the highway. The 5 MPG difference shows the engine’s thirst, whether it’s in stop-and-go traffic or at sustained speeds. The supercharger needs energy to force induction, and that energy burns fuel. Cadillac uses cylinder deactivation (which cuts fuel to cylinders when full output isn’t needed), but that only goes so far against physics and the Escalade V’s weight. Regardless of what causes it, the 6.2L V8 is the main feature.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Cadillac Escalade V at $4,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium unleaded gasoline. Escalade V buyers likely factor this into their budget. The cost of Escalade V ownership makes the fuel cost a footnote, but it does add a yearly expense.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a fuel economy estimate, but real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, traffic, and terrain. Expect to see numbers at or below the EPA estimates if you drive aggressively or in congested areas. Careful drivers might match the highway number on long road trips, but achieving the combined MPG will be challenging due to the vehicle’s weight and powerful engine.

How it compares

The Escalade V’s fuel economy is the lowest in the large luxury SUV segment. The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, with a V8, gets a slightly better 16 MPG combined. The standard Escalade with the 6.2L V8 offers 16 MPG combined, so the “V” badge increases fuel consumption. Competitors like the Lincoln Navigator (17 MPG combined) and the INFINITI QX80 (15 MPG combined) get better fuel economy, but lack the Escalade V’s performance. For buyers considering the Cadillac, viewing ESCALADE MPG across all years should be part of the research process. Ultimately, the decision is whether the Escalade V’s performance, luxury, and presence justify the fuel trade-off. You can also check all Cadillac fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

It’s impossible to get Prius-level fuel economy from an Escalade V, but there are strategies to improve gas mileage. Minimize aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The supercharger is active under heavy throttle, so gentle pedal inputs will conserve fuel.

Use the Escalade V’s drive modes. Select “Tour” mode for relaxed cruising, which optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated and your vehicle is maintained. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, while neglected engine maintenance hurts fuel economy.

Avoid excessive idling. Modern engines consume fuel when stationary, so turn off the engine if stopped for more than a minute.

Consider combining trips to reduce cold starts. Cold starts use more fuel, as the engine management system enriches the air/fuel mixture to aid combustion.