The all-new 2021 Cadillac Escalade is here, ushering in a fresh fifth generation for the luxury SUV nameplate. Not only does the latest Escalade rock a new design, a new cabin, a new platform, and the latest tech features, but it also comes with the option for a new diesel engine. Now, the EPA has revealed fuel economy estimates for the latest oil-burner-equipped Escalade.
Per the official EPA website, 2021 Cadillac Escalade models equipped with 2WD and the new 3.0L I6 turbodiesel engine (production code LM2) are rated at 21 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,550.
| Engine | 6.2L V8 L87 | 3.0L I6 LM2 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Premium | Diesel |
| City | 15 | 21 |
| Highway | 20 | 27 |
| Combined | 17 | 23 |
| Estimated Annual Fuel Cost | $2,450 | $1,550 |
By contrast, 2021 Cadillac Escalade models equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 gas engine (production code L87) and 2WD are rated at 15 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,450 – a significant difference compared to the new diesel engine option.
The new figures underline comments made by Cadillac Marketing Manager Dave Schiavone, who, earlier this year, spoke with Cadillac Society about the reasoning behind the inclusion of a new diesel engine from the perspective of a customer.
“If you love Escalade, you love Escalade,” Schiavone told Cadillac Society. “But for those people that also love fuel efficiency, they can get it in the diesel. We’re expecting some pretty good improvements in fuel economy on the diesel over the V8 gasoline.”
With regard to output, the 3.0L I6 diesel engine is rated at 277 horsepower at 3,750 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm, while the 6.2L V8 gas engine is rated at 420 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 4,100 rpm.
Both engines connect to the drive wheels by way of a 10-speed automatic transmission.
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