22 MPG combined from the 2016 Cadillac ATS AWD 3.6L won’t win any hypermiling contests, but it’s perfectly justifiable for a stylish, all-weather-capable sport sedan aimed at drivers who want performance, luxury, and American swagger. The ATS AWD 3.6L isn’t about chasing Prius-like efficiency; it’s about driving on twisty roads and making a statement while still being reasonably responsible at the pump. Its target audience appreciates a refined driving experience, demands sure-footedness in challenging conditions, and won’t sacrifice power to save a mile or two per gallon. They likely have the money to absorb slightly higher fuel costs and view it as a trade-off for the ATS’s blend of attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for the 2016 Cadillac ATS AWD 3.6L. The city figure reflects the engine’s consumption in stop-and-go traffic, where the ATS’s 3.6-liter V6 needs to work harder. The highway number showcases the potential of the 8-speed automatic transmission to settle into a more efficient cruising mode. A well-maintained ATS, driven moderately, should approach that highway figure. Remember that aggressive acceleration and high speeds will drastically reduce fuel economy, as is the case with any vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Cadillac ATS AWD 3.6L to be exactly $2,000. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG estimate and assuming national average fuel prices. Individual results will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions in which the vehicle is operated. However, the $2,000 figure provides a reasonable benchmark for potential owners to consider when budgeting for their transportation expenses. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, which will further increase real-world costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized yardstick, real-world fuel economy is rarely identical. Drivers who primarily operate their ATS in congested urban environments can expect to see figures closer to the 19 MPG city estimate, potentially even lower with a heavy foot. Those who frequently embark on longer highway journeys, maintaining consistent speeds, might achieve results exceeding the 27 MPG highway rating. Driving style, tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions all play a role in the final outcome. Checking the ATS MPG across all years can provide a broader understanding of owner-reported figures.

How it compares

Within the competitive set of compact luxury sport sedans, the 2016 Cadillac ATS AWD 3.6L occupies a middle ground in terms of fuel economy. The BMW 340i xDrive, for example, is rated at 25 MPG combined, offering slightly better efficiency with comparable performance. The Audi A4 2.0T quattro achieves a similar 25 MPG combined rating. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC, with its smaller turbocharged engine, boasts 27 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly small on paper, can translate into noticeable savings over the long term. However, buyers often prioritize factors beyond fuel economy, such as styling, handling, and brand perception, when making their purchasing decisions. See all Cadillac fuel economy data on FuelEconomyHub.com.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the ATS’s cruise control system on highway drives. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Even small fluctuations in speed can add up over long distances.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Periodically check and adjust tire pressure, especially during changes in temperature.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.6L V6 responds eagerly to throttle inputs, but excessive power comes at a cost. Smooth and gradual acceleration is more fuel-efficient. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a safe following distance to minimize the need for abrupt stops.

Consider using the ATS’s driver-selectable modes (Tour, Sport, etc.) appropriately. The “Tour” mode is designed for efficient cruising, optimizing engine and transmission settings for fuel economy. “Sport” mode prioritizes performance and may reduce fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute or two, consider turning off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without actually traveling any distance. This is especially relevant in urban environments with frequent traffic lights and stop-and-go conditions.