The 2017 Cadillac ATS-V gets 20 MPG combined, according to EPA estimates. Most owners are aware of this and don’t regret their purchase. This is a serious performance sedan, designed to compete with German luxury brands. Fuel efficiency is secondary to quick acceleration, sharp handling, and the sound of its twin-turbocharged V6.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These numbers highlight the ATS-V’s capabilities. In city driving, the engine works harder to move the car, which increases fuel consumption. The turbo system, though not always active at low speeds, adds complexity. However, on the highway, the transmission and aerodynamic design allow for better fuel economy. Keep in mind that the temptation to use the car’s power will likely decrease the 25 MPG figure in real-world conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Cadillac ATS-V at $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. The car requires premium fuel for best performance and long engine life. Owning a high-performance vehicle comes with expenses, including fuel. Owners should also budget for higher maintenance, premium tires, and possibly higher insurance costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a starting point. Expect lower MPG if you often drive aggressively. The ATS-V’s power is addictive, and resisting the urge to push it takes discipline. Stop-and-go traffic will also hurt fuel economy, possibly dropping it into the low teens.

On the other hand, those who drive conservatively and spend more time on the highway might see results closer to or even slightly above the EPA’s 25 MPG estimate. It depends on how you drive.

How it compares

The ATS-V’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors, but consider the trade-offs other automakers made to get better numbers. The BMW M3, for example, is EPA-rated at 20 MPG combined (25 MPG highway, 17 MPG city) with its manual transmission, matching the ATS-V. Some drivers feel the Cadillac’s chassis is more communicative. The Mercedes-AMG C63, known for its V8 sound, is rated around 19 MPG combined and needs more throttle to reach similar performance as the Cadillac. Checking ATS V MPG across all years can also give potential buyers a broader understanding of the vehicle’s efficiency over its production run. Buyers considering less powerful cars like the Audi S4 (24 MPG combined) might save fuel, but they’ll sacrifice performance and the visceral experience of the ATS-V. Compare all Cadillac fuel economy data to see how the ATS-V compares to other Cadillac models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently, especially when starting from a stop. The ATS-V’s engine responds quickly to the accelerator, and small increases in throttle can significantly increase fuel use. Look ahead while driving and avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Keeping a consistent speed reduces how often the turbos engage, which improves fuel efficiency.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. The recommended tire pressure is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Check tire pressure regularly, especially when the weather changes.

Avoid idling. Letting your car idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and can save fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, reducing unnecessary changes in throttle and helping fuel efficiency. Cadillac’s “Tour” drive mode provides smoother acceleration and shifts, which promote better MPG on long trips.

Keep up with maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A dirty air filter or worn spark plugs can hurt fuel economy.