32 MPG combined is respectable for the 2016 Cadillac ELR, a luxury coupe that prioritized style and advanced technology. This number isn’t about beating a Prius; it’s about offering a premium driving experience to tech-savvy early adopters who wanted to make a statement with less gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers for the ELR break down to 31 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. These figures demonstrate the ELR’s efficiency is relatively consistent across different driving environments, aided by its electric drive system and regenerative braking. Stop-and-go city driving allows the ELR to recapture energy, which minimizes gasoline consumption, while highway cruising benefits from the efficiency of the gasoline engine once the battery is depleted. However, the key point is that these are blend numbers, what you achieve *after* you’ve depleted the initial battery charge. Early miles are near-zero emissions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Cadillac ELR at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and factoring in the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. It’s important to remember that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of time you drive on electric power alone. Those with short commutes and frequent charging opportunities will likely see significantly lower fuel expenses, while those covering longer distances with less access to charging will see costs closer to the $1,800 estimate. You can examine ELR MPG across all years to see trends.

Real-world expectations

The ELR’s real-world fuel economy is heavily dependent on how often its battery is charged. Drivers who treat it primarily as an electric vehicle, plugging in frequently, can achieve impressive MPGe figures, far exceeding the EPA’s gasoline-only estimates. However, if the ELR is driven primarily on gasoline, the fuel economy will be closer to the stated 32 MPG combined. The ELR’s appeal lies in its flexibility. It allows drivers to minimize gasoline consumption during daily commutes while offering the peace of mind of a gasoline engine for longer trips. Expect to see variations based on your charging habits and driving style.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury coupes of its time, the 2016 Cadillac ELR occupied a unique position. A conventionally powered coupe like the BMW 428i offered similar performance but at a lower price point, achieving around 27 MPG combined. The Lexus RC 350, known for its reliability and smooth V6 engine, achieved roughly 23 MPG combined. However, neither of these could match the ELR’s electric driving capabilities and the associated opportunities for zero-emission commutes. The Tesla Model S, while all-electric and offering superior performance, carried a significantly higher price tag. These comparisons matter because the ELR buyer was often cross-shopping these vehicles, weighing the benefits of electric driving against price and performance trade-offs. Those interested in other models should check all Cadillac fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent charging is the most effective way to maximize the ELR’s fuel efficiency. Plug in whenever possible, even for short periods, to keep the battery at a high state of charge. This allows you to drive in electric mode for longer distances, reducing your reliance on gasoline.

Gentle acceleration and braking conserve energy. Avoid aggressive driving, which drains the battery quickly and forces the gasoline engine to work harder. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow allow the regenerative braking system to capture more energy, extending your electric range.

Use the ELR’s driving modes. The “Tour” mode is the default setting, balancing performance and efficiency. The “Sport” mode prioritizes performance, while the “Hold” mode allows you to save the battery’s charge for later use, such as driving in urban areas with limited charging options. “Mountain” mode keeps some battery charge to increase assist power when going up a hill.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure, as indicated on the doorjamb, to minimize energy waste.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo increases fuel consumption, especially when driving in electric mode. Remove any items you don’t need to lighten the load and improve efficiency.