22 MPG combined isn’t a reason to boast about the 2015 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L 4-cyl, and most buyers of this Cadillac mid-size sedan don’t expect it to be. This car appeals to buyers who want the security of all-wheel drive in colder climates, and the quick response of a turbocharged engine, in a stylish design. Fuel efficiency is often less important than these features. They know there is a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 CTS AWD 2.0T gets 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The difference between these numbers shows how this car is often driven. The 2.0-liter turbo engine needs to work harder in stop-and-go city traffic, especially with the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system. On the open road, however, the CTS can cruise more efficiently, helped by its six-speed automatic transmission and aerodynamic design. Drivers who drive mostly in cities should expect real-world fuel economy to be closer to the city estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L 4-cyl at $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and assuming a national average fuel price. Remember that this is just an estimate. If you drive less than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices in your area are lower than average, your actual fuel costs will probably be less. On the other hand, driving harder or higher local fuel costs will increase that number. Think of this as a benchmark for comparing with other vehicles in its class, keeping in mind your own driving and fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA gives a standard estimate, real-world fuel economy always varies. Factors like driving style, traffic, terrain, and even tire pressure can all change the MPG you get. Drivers who accelerate hard will see their fuel economy drop, and those who drive mostly in traffic will as well. However, drivers who drive gently and steadily can often get better MPG than the EPA estimates. Tracking your own fuel economy over time will give you a clearer picture of what to expect from your 2015 CTS in your driving conditions.

How it compares

In 2015, competing all-wheel-drive sedans had different fuel efficiencies. The BMW 328i xDrive with its 2.0-liter turbo engine got a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, noticeably better than the CTS by 4 MPG. The Audi A4 2.0T quattro, another competitor, got 25 MPG combined. These differences can add up over a year. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic had similar fuel economy to the Cadillac, but weighs more. Cadillac designed the CTS as a performance-focused choice, and the fuel economy shows a slight trade-off for those who want power and style more than maximizing efficiency. Check CTS MPG across all years to compare different powertrains.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay attention to your tires. Keeping them properly inflated to the pressure on the doorjamb sticker can noticeably improve fuel economy. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. This is especially important with all-wheel drive, since equal tire pressures ensure the system works best.

Avoid quick acceleration and braking. The 2.0-liter turbo engine in the CTS responds quickly, but accelerating too fast burns fuel quickly. Accelerate smoothly and gradually, and anticipate traffic to avoid sudden braking. A more relaxed driving style will improve fuel economy and the driving experience.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for a long time, like when waiting for someone in the car or in a drive-through, wastes fuel. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars like the 2015 CTS are made to restart quickly and efficiently.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway with cruise control can help fuel economy. By preventing speed changes, cruise control allows the engine to operate more efficiently, especially on flat roads. Deactivate cruise control on hills or in heavy traffic, since it can cause inefficient gear changes.

Regular maintenance is critical. Keeping your engine properly tuned, changing the oil regularly, and replacing air filters as needed ensures your CTS runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine will consume less fuel and produce less pollution. Use all Cadillac fuel economy data to explore other Cadillac models.