Owners of the 2018 Cadillac ATS AWD with the 3.6L V6 get 22 MPG combined, a figure that might raise eyebrows. However, the ATS AWD 3.6L wasn’t purchased for hypermiling; it was bought for its blend of responsive power, capable handling, confident all-weather grip, and undeniably handsome styling. This is a car for those who appreciate a traditional, naturally aspirated engine’s immediate throttle response and linear power delivery, even if it means using more fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the ATS AWD 3.6L’s fuel consumption at 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. This variability isn’t surprising. Stop-and-go city driving will punish any car, and the ATS, with its V6 and all-wheel-drive system, is no exception. The highway number is more acceptable, assuming a steady cruise. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps to keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing efficiency when possible. Consider these figures guidelines. Aggressive driving will quickly reduce them, while a conscious effort to drive smoothly can yield better results. Remember to research ATS MPG across all years to see how this model compares. While it may seem low right now, it is adequate for its powertrain class.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2018 Cadillac ATS AWD 3.6L. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the ATS’s running costs against other vehicles. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles annually, or if gas prices are higher than the national average in your region, your real fuel expenses could be considerably different.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, owners often report slightly different figures. Many owners of the ATS AWD 3.6L report averaging closer to 20-24 MPG in mixed driving conditions. This discrepancy highlights the importance of considering individual driving styles and local road conditions. Someone who accelerates and brakes hard in traffic will likely see numbers lower than 22MPG. Someone who drives gently on rolling two lanes can expect, on average, to be higher. Driving habits impact any vehicle’s fuel economy, but the ATS is more susceptible to an aggressive driving style.

How it compares

The 2018 ATS AWD 3.6L resides in a competitive segment. The BMW 340i xDrive, for example, gets a superior EPA-estimated combined MPG of 25. The Audi S4, another competitor, delivers a similar 24 MPG combined. Even the Infiniti Q50 with its 3.0t engine manages a slightly better 22 MPG combined rating in AWD form. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over time. The ATS offers a different driving experience than its European rivals. While the BMW and Audi prioritize precision and refinement, the ATS aims for a more engaging and characterful feel. Some buyers find value in that tradeoff.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The ATS AWD 3.6L responds particularly well to smooth, deliberate inputs. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Every time you floor the accelerator, you’re dumping fuel into those six cylinders.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. It will also help the car’s handling and overall ride quality.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, like the ATS, are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, saving fuel during extended idle periods.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long trips can significantly improve your fuel economy. Cruise control isn’t always the most efficient option in hilly terrain, where the system may aggressively downshift to maintain speed.

Keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure that your engine is running optimally. A poorly maintained engine will work harder and consume more fuel. Take a look at all Cadillac fuel economy data to inform service intervals.