17 MPG combined from the 2017 Cadillac CTS-V’s supercharged 6.2L V8 is hardly a brag-worthy number, but that’s not the point. Nobody buys a CTS-V expecting Prius-like efficiency. This car isn’t about sipping fuel; it’s about raw, unadulterated American muscle delivered in a performance car that can carve corners as well as it decimates drag strips. This is a car for the enthusiast who wants a four-door sledgehammer, and they understand the price of admission includes frequent trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the CTS-V at 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic and aggressive acceleration from stoplights, actions this car actively encourages. The highway number is more attainable, assuming a fairly steady cruising speed. However, even on the open road, the temptation to unleash the supercharged V8’s power is ever-present, and frequent bursts of acceleration will quickly erode that 21 MPG figure. Drivers should understand that the CTS-V’s fuel efficiency is heavily dependent on throttle discipline, a virtue many owners find difficult to practice.

Annual fuel cost

Based on the EPA’s calculations of 15,000 miles driven per year and national average fuel prices, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Cadillac CTS-V is $3,400. This figure provides a benchmark for potential owners to consider. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of gasoline used. Owners who regularly engage in spirited driving or live in areas with higher fuel prices will likely exceed this $3,400 figure.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG in a CTS-V can vary significantly based on driving style. Consistently aggressive driving will likely result in combined MPG figures closer to 15 or even lower. Those who prioritize highway cruising and use a light foot on the accelerator might achieve numbers closer to the EPA’s 21 MPG estimate, or even slightly better. This is a high-performance machine, and its fuel consumption reflects that. Check out CTS V MPG across all years.

How it compares

The CTS-V’s fuel economy positions it predictably within its high-performance sedan segment. The BMW M5 (F10 generation) with its 4.4L twin-turbo V8, for example, achieves a similar 17 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S (W213 generation) with its 4.0L twin-turbo V8 posts figures in the same neighborhood, around 18 MPG combined. The slightly smaller Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, while boasting impressive performance, lands around 20 MPG combined, showing that even downsizing doesn’t guarantee drastically improved fuel efficiency when performance remains a priority. These comparisons are important to the prospective CTS-V buyer because they highlight the inherent trade-offs between performance and fuel economy in this class of vehicle. It’s about understanding where the CTS-V sits relative to its direct competition.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration whenever possible. The supercharged V8 is immensely powerful, but it’s also incredibly thirsty when pushed hard. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will significantly improve fuel economy.

Use the car’s driving modes. The CTS-V offers various driving modes, including a Tour mode designed for comfortable cruising. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright performance.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure outlined in the owner’s manual. This simple step can make a noticeable difference.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling consumes fuel unnecessarily. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than letting it idle for an extended period.

Consider aftermarket tuning with caution. While performance tunes can unlock even more power, they often come at the expense of fuel economy. Ensure any aftermarket modifications are performed by a qualified professional and thoroughly researched to understand their potential impact on fuel consumption. See all Cadillac fuel economy data.