The Cadillac Escalade is all-new for the 2021 model year, introducing a fresh fifth generation for the iconic SUV nameplate. Although the Escalade might not be the first choice for new-car buyers when it comes to fuel economy, Escalade customers will no doubt still like to know what to expect with regard to fuel returns. As such, GM Authority is taking a closer look at fuel economy figures for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade without automatic stop-start.
For those readers who may be unaware, the ongoing global microchip shortage has resulted in General Motors removing automatic engine stop-start from certain models in its full-size SUV lineup, including the 2021 Cadillac Escalade.
The feature is designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by automatically cutting the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop, such as at a stoplight or in heavy traffic. Once the driver removes their foot from the brake pedal, the system restarts the engine, allowing the vehicle to once again move forward.
However, as of June 7th, certain 2021 Cadillac Escalade models that would normally come equipped with automatic engine stop-start are no longer produced with the feature, specifically Escalade models equipped with the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87 gasoline engine. The 6.2L V8 L87 is rated at 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and connects to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade is also offered with the 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel Duramax, rated at 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Escalade models with the diesel engine continue to come equipped with automatic engine stop-start.
Check out the table below for an exact breakdown of the mpg differences between 2021 Cadillac Escalade models with automatic engine stop-start, and 2021 Escalade models without the feature. To note, the EPA rates both the standard-length Escalade and the extended-length Escalade ESV with identical mpg figures.
| Drivetrain | Engine | Transmission | Auto Stop/Start | City mpg | Highway mpg | Combined mpg | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2WD | 6.2L V8 L87 | 10-speed auto | Yes | 15 | 20 | 17 | Start of 2021 MY |
| 2WD | 6.2L V8 L87 | 10-speed auto | No | 14 | 20 | 16 | June 7, 2021 |
| 4WD | 6.2L V8 L87 | 10-speed auto | Yes | 14 | 19 | 16 | Start of 2021 MY |
| 4WD | 6.2L V8 L87 | 10-speed auto | No | 13 | 19 | 16 | June 7, 2021 |
| 2WD | Turbodiesel 3.0L I6 LM2 | 10-speed auto | Yes | 21 | 27 | 23 | Start of 2021 MY |
| 4WD | Turbodiesel 3.0L I6 LM2 | 10-speed auto | Yes | 20 | 26 | 22 | Start of 2021 MY |
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Comments
Stop start is another level of complication and expensive repair that is helping to move us to an all electric car future
I always deactivate my stop-start each time I start the SUV anyway. I don’t like having the engine stop at prolonged lights and having to restart. It should be abolished anyway.
Auto stop/start is a miserable intrusion of Big Brother into consumer’s lives and is just more complicated junk to go wrong. What a blessing to buyers of the V8 not to have it. Ironic that gas hogs like this are red hot in the Land of the New Green Deal where you can no longer buy a fuel efficient Chevy Cruze. Hypocrisy über alles!
I would never waste my money on this car….
It’s pretty annoying!
“Although the Escalade might not be the first choice for new-car buyers when it comes to fuel economy”…hmmmm
I was lucky and blessed enough to have owned three Escalades with the 6.2L. Safest and most reliable vehicles on the planet. I just sold my last one to family, because I know they’re going to have good luck with it.
My next purchase will be the baby Duramax Escalade for my wife. Why? Well, allow me to let you in on a little secret…..my 3L Duramax Sierra Denali averages nearly 30 MPG. In fact, it gets nearly 40 MPG when I cruise at 50 mph. Can you imagine the 6100 pound Escalade…….the safest vehicle on the planet with the best interior and fuel economy better than a Hyundai Santa Fe? The only thing that will come close is the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer if they decide to put the 3L diesel in it. Gas will be over $6 a gallon by this time next year.
AND YEAH, I always disable the silly stop/start in my 3L Sierra Denali…..and I still get over 30 MPG. Turbocharged engines wear out much faster with the mandatory stop/start. You should always disable the stop/start if you have turbos….its a wear and tear issue.