22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but the 2015 Cadillac ATS 3.6L isn’t trying to. This is a compact luxury sedan with a focus on performance, and that strong V6 demands its share of fuel to deliver the acceleration and responsive driving experience that buyers in this segment crave. These are drivers who appreciate a well-engineered machine, prioritizing spirited driving over Prius-like efficiency, and for them, 22 MPG is an acceptable trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Cadillac ATS 3.6L at 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the demands of stop-and-go driving, where the engine works harder to accelerate the car from a standstill. The highway figure, obtained during steady-state cruising, showcases the engine’s efficiency at maintaining speed. These numbers, while useful for comparison, should be viewed as benchmarks under ideal conditions. Real-world driving habits and environmental factors will invariably affect your actual fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Cadillac ATS 3.6L at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a helpful data point for budgeting purposes, giving potential buyers a realistic expectation of the ongoing expense of owning this vehicle. Keep in mind that fluctuations in gasoline prices and individual driving habits will impact your actual annual fuel expenditure; however, $2,000 provides a reliable baseline to consider.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized test results, your personal MPG will likely vary. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of the air conditioning, and carrying extra weight in the car will all decrease fuel economy. Gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and diligent maintenance will improve fuel efficiency. Monitoring your driving habits and making small adjustments can have a noticeable impact on your fuel bills.

For example, avoiding prolonged idling saves a surprising amount of fuel over time.

How it compares

The 2015 Cadillac ATS 3.6L doesn’t compete with economy cars, but understanding its fuel economy relative to its rivals is essential. A comparable BMW 335i from the same year, also equipped with a 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder, manages roughly 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C300, with its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, nets around 28 MPG combined. The Audi A4 2.0T, another popular choice, hits close to 27 MPG combined. For the ATS buyer, the appeal isn’t related to just fuel efficiency; it’s about Cadillac’s distinctive styling, driving dynamics, and perceived value within the luxury sedan market. Buyers can review ATS MPG across all years to understand historical fuel economy trends for this model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the ATS’s smooth-shifting automatic transmission. Gentle acceleration and avoiding unnecessary downshifts are crucial for maximizing fuel economy. The transmission is calibrated for both performance and efficiency, so let it do its job by allowing it to shift early and often when appropriate.

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure your ATS’s engine is properly tuned, and that the tires are correctly inflated. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, and properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, both contributing positively to fuel mileage. Check all Cadillac fuel economy data on our Cadillac brand page.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling burns fuel without getting you anywhere. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. Especially on cold mornings, allow the car to warm up for 30 seconds to a minute, instead of letting the combustion run and waste gasoline.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and rush-hour traffic reduces stop-and-go driving, which is a significant fuel economy killer. Using a GPS navigation system to find the most efficient route can save both time and fuel. This is even more applicable if you live in a highly-populated or metropolitan area.

Drive at a consistent speed on the highway. Using cruise control when appropriate helps maintain a steady pace, minimizing wasteful acceleration and deceleration. Gradual speed changes are far more efficient than sudden bursts of speed, so use the accelerator pedal accordingly.