| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline |
| Vehicle Class | Midsize Cars |
| Engine Desc | SIDI |
| Start-Stop | No |
| EPA Vehicle ID | 36580 |
The 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L 4-cyl gets 24 MPG combined. It’s not trying to be a Prius, delivering accessible luxury, confident all-wheel drive performance, and a distinctively American driving experience. The CTS buyer prioritizes style, comfort, technology, and the surefootedness of AWD over maximum fuel savings.
City and highway performance
The EPA estimates for the 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L are 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. That near-30 MPG highway figure is respectable for a sedan of this size and capability. The turbocharged 2.0L engine works with the eight-speed automatic transmission to deliver smooth power on the open road. Expect fuel consumption to rise in stop-and-go city driving. The AWD system adds weight and complexity, contributing to the lower city MPG, but the added security and performance it provides in inclement weather is often considered a worthwhile trade-off by drivers in colder climates. The engine’s need for premium fuel also plays a role in the overall cost of ownership.
Annual fuel cost
The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L 4-cyl to be exactly $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will all negatively impact your fuel economy.
Real-world expectations
While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. The 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L can deliver fuel economy close to the EPA estimates with careful driving, but expect a slight decrease in combined MPG during winter months, particularly in regions with frequent snow or ice. The all-wheel-drive system engages more often in slippery conditions, increasing fuel consumption. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will also reduce MPG. Highway mileage is highly sensitive to speed, exceeding 75 MPH can noticeably impact fuel economy. Note that these are average figures, and individual results will vary based on driving style and environmental factors.
How it compares
Compared to its competitors, the 2016 Cadillac CTS Sedan AWD 2.0L’s fuel economy is in the middle. The BMW 328i xDrive (later 330i xDrive) from the same year achieved around 26 MPG combined, offering a slight edge in efficiency. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC, another rival, also hovered around 25 MPG combined. The Audi A4 Quattro with its 2.0T engine often came in slightly lower than the CTS, closer to 23 MPG. For buyers considering the CTS, this MPG difference contributes to the overall ownership considerations. Buyers prioritizing fuel savings would gravitate towards the BMW or Mercedes-Benz. However, those favoring distinctive American styling and features, like Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system, might find the slightly lower MPG acceptable. Remember to check CTS MPG across all years to see how this compares to other model years.
Tips to maximize efficiency
Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible to maintain a consistent speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. The CTS eight-speed automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency, and cruise control helps it to optimize gear selection for fuel savings. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth and deliberate driving will significantly improve your MPG.
Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which requires the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check and adjust your tire pressure, especially during temperature changes.
Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk or cabin adds to the overall weight of the vehicle, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly. Similarly, avoid using roof racks or cargo carriers unless absolutely necessary, as these create aerodynamic drag and increase fuel consumption.
Consider using the car’s driving mode selector, if equipped, to choose the “Eco” or “Tour” mode. These modes often adjust throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. Experiment with different driving modes to see what best suits your driving style and typical conditions.
Stay on top of routine maintenance, especially oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine, while fresh oil reduces friction and improves engine performance. Neglecting these maintenance items can negatively impact fuel economy. See all Cadillac fuel economy data.