23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s an understandable trade-off for the 2025 Cadillac XT6 AWD 2.0L 4-cyl. This isn’t a hybrid or a stripped-down economy model; it’s a three-row luxury SUV designed to comfortably and safely transport families, especially targeting affluent empty-nesters and active grandparents carrying precious cargo. These buyers prioritize space, features, and all-weather confidence over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the XT6 AWD 2.0L at 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the 2.0L turbo engine needs to work harder to get the XT6’s substantial weight moving. The automatic (S9) transmission certainly helps keep the engine in its optimal powerband, but physics remain undefeated.

On the open road, the 26 MPG rating is more palatable, suggesting the engine can cruise more efficiently once it’s up to speed. Achieving that highway number likely requires a gentle foot and adherence to posted speed limits. Aggressive acceleration and higher speeds will invariably impact fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Cadillac XT6 AWD 2.0L to be precisely $2,500. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of the estimate. Of course, actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, location, and fluctuations in fuel prices.

For those who primarily drive in the city or frequently accelerate hard, the annual cost will likely exceed $2,500. Drivers who primarily stick to the highway and maintain a steady speed could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. The XT6’s weight, all-wheel-drive system, and premium-focused features all contribute to its fuel consumption.

Drivers can realistically expect to see figures close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions. However, factors like carrying extra cargo, using the air conditioning heavily, and dealing with headwinds can all negatively impact fuel economy. Consider all Cadillac fuel economy data to see how the XT6 compares with the rest of the lineup.

How it compares

The XT6’s fuel economy is competitive within its segment, but not class-leading. A similarly equipped Acura MDX SH-AWD, for example, achieves a combined 22 MPG with its V6 engine. The Lexus RX 350 AWD delivers about the same. The Lincoln Aviator with its standard engine achieves similar fuel economy, too. But, perhaps more interestingly, some competitors offer a hybrid option.

The Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid has an MPGe of 76 combined, making it far more fuel efficient. While these hybrid or plug-in hybrid options come with a higher initial price tag, the long-term fuel savings can be significant.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.0L turbo engine is responsive, but each hard push of the accelerator dumps fuel into the cylinders. Smooth, gradual acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy, especially around town, where constant bursts of acceleration significantly impact efficiency.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended levels specified on the door jamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo adds weight, which directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to lighten the load. Even a few hundred pounds can make a noticeable difference over time.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This is particularly effective on long highway drives. Remember to disengage cruise control in hilly terrain, where it can sometimes lead to inefficient gear changes.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let them run unnecessarily.

Look at more XT6 MPG across all years to see if there are any year-specific trends.