26 MPG combined won’t set any records, but the 2017 Cadillac CT6 Plug-In isn’t designed for hypermilers. This car appeals to a specific buyer: the executive who wants a luxury sedan experience, the prestige of electrification, and the flexibility for short, emissions-free commutes. Fuel economy, while important, is often secondary to these priorities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the CT6 Plug-In manages 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the car’s ability to lean heavily on its electric motor during lower-speed, stop-and-go driving. The regenerative braking system also helps recapture energy. On the highway, the gasoline engine does more of the work, resulting in a slight dip in efficiency. Driving style can significantly impact these numbers, especially regarding how aggressively you use the electric motor’s instant torque. Knowing these MPG ratings can help you compare to CT6 MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Cadillac CT6 Plug-In at $2,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this figure is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of time you spend driving on electric power versus gasoline.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners who diligently plug in their CT6 every night and primarily use it for shorter trips can see significantly better results, sometimes approaching triple-digit MPGe figures. But those who rarely charge and rely heavily on the gasoline engine will likely achieve fuel economy closer to a standard, non-hybrid sedan. How you use the plug-in capability dictates your cost of ownership.

How it compares

The CT6 Plug-In had competition when new, though few offered the same blend of luxury and plug-in technology. The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, rated at 41 MPG combined, prioritized fuel efficiency over performance. The BMW 530e, with a 27 MPG combined rating, offered a sportier driving experience, appealing to brand loyalists. Even within the Cadillac brand, a buyer could explore all Cadillac fuel economy data to see how the standard CT6 models weighed in. Choosing the plug-in reveals a buyer who prioritizes using less gas, though might accept compromises in other areas.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent charging is critical to maximizing the CT6 Plug-In’s efficiency. Make it a habit to plug in every night, even if the battery isn’t fully depleted. A full charge maximizes the electric range, enabling you to complete more trips without using gasoline.

Use the car’s driving modes. The “Normal” mode balances gasoline and electric power, while “Sport” mode prioritizes performance. Select “Electric” mode for short trips to maximize electric-only range. Become familiar with each mode and adapt it to each driving scenario.

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to efficiency in any vehicle, and the CT6 Plug-In is no exception. Avoid hard acceleration, which depletes the battery quickly. Practice smooth braking to engage the regenerative braking system and recapture energy.

Be mindful of climate control use. Air conditioning and heating can draw significant power, reducing electric range. Pre-condition the cabin while the car is plugged in to minimize battery drain when you start driving. If conditions are mild, consider using the fan only instead of air conditioning.