The 2024 GMC Acadia AWD with its new 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine has an official EPA fuel economy rating of 21 MPG combined. It won’t win any hypermiling contests, but this is a three-row SUV. Acadia buyers typically prioritize space, practicality, and all-weather capability over fuel efficiency. This figure should be evaluated with that in mind.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Acadia’s fuel economy, estimating 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Acadia’s weight and stop-start system are factors. The highway number suggests that longer road trips won’t be excessively draining on your wallet. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal rev range at higher speeds, contributing to the better highway number. These numbers are for the AWD model. The FWD variant will likely improve on these estimates slightly, but the core dynamics remain the same.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 GMC Acadia AWD at $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and factoring in national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, seasonal temperature changes, and the price at the pump. The $2,100 serves as a useful benchmark when comparing the Acadia’s running costs to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but understand that real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Driving style, traffic conditions, terrain, and even tire pressure can influence your actual MPG. If you frequently accelerate quickly, brake hard, or spend time idling in traffic, expect your fuel economy to be lower than the EPA estimates. If you drive more conservatively and prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds, you may achieve figures closer to, or even slightly better than, the EPA’s ratings.

How it compares

The mid-size SUV segment is crowded, and fuel economy is a key consideration for many buyers. The Honda Pilot, with its V6 engine, achieves around 22 MPG combined in AWD configuration, similar to the Acadia but with a different driving feel. The Toyota Highlander AWD V6 gets approximately 24 MPG combined. The new Acadia, with its turbocharged four-cylinder, aims to be competitive. For those who value other areas, they can review all Gmc fuel economy data. It’s a little different from the previous generation. Careful shoppers will compare the latest figures alongside ACADIA MPG across all years before deciding to purchase.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.5L turbocharged engine is responsive, but avoid quick acceleration, which uses more fuel. Accelerate gradually so the turbocharger spools up efficiently without demanding too much fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, shown on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying heavy cargo increases the engine’s workload, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need regularly.

Consider using cruise control on highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces acceleration and deceleration, leading to better fuel economy. Disengage it in inclement weather.

Plan your trips to minimize stop-and-go driving. Combining errands into a single trip and avoiding peak traffic hours can save fuel.