19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for lower fuel costs, but for the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V, it’s simply the price to pay for a high-performance car. This isn’t a car bought for grocery runs; it’s a compact performance sedan designed to challenge the best from Germany, and its fuel consumption reflects this.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 ATS-V at 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures represent the car’s considerable power output, delivered from a potent 3.6L twin-turbo V6. The driving experience is the priority, and the relatively low city MPG shows that. Frequent acceleration, stop-and-go traffic, and the temptation to use the engine’s readily available torque all contribute to less-than-stellar fuel economy in urban environments. The highway figure of 24 MPG is more respectable, showing that the ATS-V can hold its own on longer journeys. However, expect that number to decrease if you’re consistently pushing the car’s performance, even on the open road.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2016 Cadillac ATS-V. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating and assuming national average fuel prices. Of course, this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended for optimal performance), and changes in fuel prices. Someone who primarily uses the ATS-V for weekend track days will spend considerably more on fuel than someone who uses it for a daily commute with a light foot.

Real-world expectations

Drivers should see the EPA estimates as a baseline rather than a guarantee. Real-world fuel economy for the 2016 ATS-V will vary considerably based on driving style and conditions. Owners who want performance and frequently use the car’s sport modes will likely see figures closer to the city estimate, even in mixed driving. Those who drive more conservatively and spend more time on the highway could potentially exceed the EPA’s combined rating, but this will require restraint. The ATS-V’s incredible power is always available, and resisting the urge to use it will be a constant challenge. View ATS V MPG across all years for a wider perspective.

How it compares

Fuel economy is rarely the main concern for buyers in this segment, but it’s still relevant. The BMW M3 of the same era, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves similar numbers, hovering around 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG C63, with its V8 engine, nets around 18 MPG combined, but again, the buyer prioritizes performance, not thriftiness. Audi’s RS5, offered as a coupe or Sportback, is in about the same territory, around 18 MPG combined, using a thrilling V6. For those cross-shopping, this illustrates that the ATS-V fuel economy isn’t an outlier. It’s simply the cost of high-performance, compact luxury sedans. Be sure to check all Cadillac fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the ATS-V isn’t designed to be a fuel sipper, there are still a few things a driver can do to improve efficiency. The most obvious is to drive smoother and with control. Avoiding aggressive acceleration and braking can noticeably reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Resist the temptation to constantly explore the upper reaches of the rev range.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that the engine is properly tuned, the tires are correctly inflated, and the air filter is clean. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which translates to better MPG.

The ATS-V offers selectable driving modes, and choosing the “Tour” or “Comfort” mode can help maximize fuel economy in everyday driving. These modes typically dampen throttle response and optimize the transmission shift points for efficiency rather than performance.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, especially in cold weather, wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to shut off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go.