The 2019 Cadillac ATS with the 3.6L V6 gets 23 MPG combined, which isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, nor is it intended to. This car exists for a specific driver, one who prioritizes a balanced blend of spirited performance, distinctive American luxury, and engaging handling over outright low fuel consumption. It represents a conscious decision, a trade-off that many ATS buyers happily make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Cadillac ATS 3.6L are 19 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city number, though not stellar, is acceptable for a car with this much power. The ATS isn’t a bulky SUV; its relatively light weight helps reduce the fuel usage of stop-and-go traffic. The highway figure is more respectable, showing that the ATS can cruise comfortably and efficiently on long trips, making it a competent grand tourer when needed. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both power and efficiency. These numbers assume you are using the recommended fuel type.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Cadillac ATS 3.6L will be approximately $1,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is only an estimate and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving or living in a region with consistently high gas prices will undoubtedly push that number higher. Still, $1,900 is a tangible figure to consider when budgeting for the overall cost of ownership. You can find all Cadillac fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some drivers of the 2019 ATS 3.6L report numbers close to the EPA’s, but experiences vary. Those who frequently exploit the engine’s 335 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque can expect to see figures closer to the low end of the range, particularly in urban environments. Conversely, drivers who adopt a more conservative style and stick to highway driving can often exceed the 29 MPG estimate. Remember that factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can subtly impact your MPG. The ATS MPG across all years offers further insight.

How it compares

In the compact luxury sedan segment, the 2019 ATS 3.6L faces stiff competition. The BMW 340i, for example, offers similar performance with an EPA-estimated combined MPG of 25, slightly better than the ATS. The Audi S4 delivers similar power, but achieves close to 24 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, while even more potent, sacrifices some efficiency, landing around 22 MPG combined. Perhaps a closer comparison would be the Lexus IS 350 F Sport, also with a naturally-aspirated V6, which nets around 22 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over time. For the ATS buyer, the decision often hinges on factors beyond fuel economy, namely styling, handling feel, and the overall Cadillac experience. It’s important to keep in mind which features this vehicle offers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2019 Cadillac ATS 3.6L may not be a hybrid, but there are still steps you can take to improve its fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as hard starts and stops waste fuel. Gentle and consistent driving will make a noticeable difference, especially in city driving.

Regular maintenance is important. Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Also, ensure that your engine is running optimally by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes and tune-ups.

When possible, minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine rather than let it idle. This is especially true for gasoline engines like the 3.6L V6.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed not only makes driving more relaxing but also helps optimize fuel consumption. Just be mindful of traffic conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.

Finally, shed unnecessary weight. Carrying around extra items in your trunk or backseat adds weight to the vehicle, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve your MPG.