25 MPG combined is a reasonable, if unremarkable, figure for the 2015 Cadillac ATS 2.5L 4-cyl. This isn’t a hybrid, nor is it intended to be a hyper-efficient commuter appliance. Instead, the 2.5L ATS appeals to drivers seeking an entry-level luxury sedan with recognizable Cadillac styling and a comfortable ride, who also don’t want to pay extra for the more powerful, but thirstier, V6.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 ATS 2.5L achieves 21 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city rating is perfectly acceptable for stop-and-go traffic, reflecting the behavior of its six-speed automatic transmission which can sometimes be a little slow to respond to downshifts unless you engage “Sport” mode. The highway figure is more appealing. Drivers logging significant highway miles will appreciate the ability to exceed 30 MPG in a luxury sedan. Maintaining a steady cruising speed is key to reaching or surpassing that number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2015 Cadillac ATS 2.5L. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, and uses the national average fuel price.

Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local gas prices, of course. Drivers with longer commutes or a heavier foot will spend more, while those who primarily use the car for short trips may spend less. If you have a lead foot, consider that it may be time reduce your footprint.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA’s figures provide a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often deviates. The 2015 ATS 2.5L is sensitive to driving style. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will significantly reduce fuel economy, especially in city driving. Conversely, conscientious drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds can achieve results closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA’s estimates.

Regular maintenance, including proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, also contributes to maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.

How it compares

In the entry-level luxury sedan segment, the 2015 ATS 2.5L’s fuel economy places it squarely in the middle of the pack. For comparison, the similarly-sized BMW 320i, with its 2.0L turbocharged engine, achieves 28 MPG combined. The Acura ILX, known for its efficient powertrain, earns 29 MPG combined. On the other end, the Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC (with mandatory AWD) returns around 24 MPG. These differences matter to the luxury buyer who seeks a balance between less gas and driving pleasure. Check ATS MPG across all years to see how this model has improved over time. Also, remember that trim level and options can vary from the numbers cited.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and braking, which directly translates to improved fuel economy. While this might seem obvious, it makes more of a difference than many drivers realize, especially on long trips where small fluctuations in speed add up over time.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check the tire pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door and inflate them to the recommended level. Buy yourself a tire pressure gauge for home to save a trip to the gas station.

Avoid excessive idling. Letting the engine run unnecessarily wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let it sit and burn fuel while stationary.

Use the car’s “Eco” or “Tour” mode, if equipped. These drive modes typically adjust throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. It’s not going to turn the ATS into a Prius, but it can help shave off a few tenths of a gallon on each trip.

Reduce weight by removing unnecessary items from the trunk. Extra weight directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry around regularly, such as old sports equipment or unused tools. This is a zero-cost change that can potentially make a real difference. If you need to get all Cadillac fuel economy data, remember to visit Cadillac.