22 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but that’s what you get with the 2019 Cadillac XTS 3.6L. People buy this car because they want traditional American luxury: a smooth ride, a spacious interior, and a stately presence. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, but it’s rarely the most important factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. This nearly ten-mile-per-gallon difference shows how much driving style affects fuel consumption. City MPG reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the XTS’s weight hurts efficiency, and the six-speed automatic transmission shifts more often. On the highway, the engine can run at low RPMs, requiring less fuel to maintain speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Cadillac XTS 3.6L at $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This cost is a useful benchmark when comparing the XTS to its competitors. If you want a car with greater fuel efficiency, this dollar amount might give you reason to pause.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test, but real-world driving is rarely so predictable. Expect your fuel economy to vary based on factors such as driving style, traffic, and even the weather. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and consistent use of climate control will hurt your MPG. But smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic flow, and properly maintaining your tires can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. These figures are targets, not guaranteed outcomes, that require conscious effort.

How it compares

The 2019 Cadillac XTS isn’t purchased for its frugality, but its fuel economy is worth considering when compared to other large luxury sedans. The Lincoln Continental, with its similarly-sized V6 engine, offers comparable numbers. Some trims might get a mile per gallon better on the highway. The Lexus ES 350, a staple in the luxury sedan market, achieves around 26 MPG combined. This is a noticeable improvement thanks to its more modern engineering. An Audi A6 with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine might get significantly better MPG on paper (around 28 MPG combined), but it doesn’t offer the same interior space or overall driving experience. For those looking for the overall XTS experience, there is now an electric option if you check all Cadillac fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The XTS, with its V6 engine and comfortable ride, encourages relaxed driving. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits significantly reduce fuel economy. Accelerate gently and coast to stops rather than braking suddenly for a surprisingly positive impact on your MPG.

Make certain your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI as indicated on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Also be sure that the tires are properly rotated for optimal fuel efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo in the trunk or in the passenger compartment adds weight, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects that are simply being stored in your car. In short, clean out your car to improve fuel efficiency.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to help minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration and improve fuel economy. Maintaining a constant speed with cruise control helps and The is especially effective on relatively flat stretches of highway with minimal traffic. For more information check the XTS MPG across all years.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure your engine is properly tuned, and that air filters are clean. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, saving you money. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will also help prevent bigger issues.