Cadillac · 2017
CTS 2.0L 4-cyl
✓ EPA Verified
Premium Gasoline
Midsize Cars
Rear-Wheel Drive
City
22
MPG
Combined
25
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300
Based on 15,000 miles/year · EPA estimates
vs avg gas vehicle
$150
more per year
Class Comparison — Midsize Cars
Bottom 35%
Better than 35 out of 100 vehicles in its class for fuel efficiency.
This vehicle: 25 MPG
This vehicle
25 MPG
Class average
35 MPG
Class lowest
13 MPG
EPA Energy & Environment Scores
5
Energy Score
Out of 10
5
GHG Score
Out of 10
359 lbs
Annual CO₂
g/mile tailpipe CO₂
No
Start-Stop
Not equipped
Vehicle Specifications
Engine2.0L 4-cyl
TransmissionAutomatic (S8)
DriveRear-Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePremium Gasoline
Vehicle ClassMidsize Cars
Engine DescSIDI
Start-StopNo
EPA Vehicle ID37924

The 2017 Cadillac CTS 2.0L gets 25 MPG combined. This number should be considered if you’re comparing it to other cars, especially given its engine size and number of cylinders. Buyers interested in the CTS 2.0L are probably not focused on getting the best gas mileage, but rather appreciate American design, sharp handling, and the Cadillac brand. They are likely okay with average fuel economy for the CTS’ unique style and performance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, which gives a clearer idea of the CTS 2.0L’s fuel consumption. The city number reflects typical stop-and-go driving and the engine working harder because of the car’s weight. However, the highway number is better. It shows the CTS is fairly efficient when cruising at a consistent speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission is important here. It helps keep the engine at its best point for fuel efficiency at higher speeds. To get that 30 MPG, try not to use the turbocharger too much on long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Cadillac CTS 2.0L at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Fuel costs will change based on driving habits and local fuel prices. Driving aggressively, idling for a long time, or living where fuel is more expensive will increase how much you spend. While $2,300 isn’t a huge amount for a luxury car, it’s good to remember when planning your budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates give a general idea, real-world MPG often varies. You might see numbers a little lower than the EPA estimates if you often drive in heavy traffic, drive fast, or mostly use the car for short trips. On the other hand, if you drive carefully and spend a lot of time on the highway, you could see numbers close to, or even a little above, the 30 MPG highway figure. Paying attention to how you drive and keeping the car maintained is key to getting the best possible fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2017 Cadillac CTS 2.0L’s fuel economy is average compared to its competitors. For instance, a similar BMW 320i gets slightly better gas mileage at 28 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C300, another important competitor, also has about the same rating at 25 MPG combined. Some may see this as a negative, but people who buy the CTS probably care more about how it looks and handles than saving a little on gas. If better MPG is important, check out all Cadillac fuel economy data. The Lexus IS 300h hybrid uses much less gas, but it’s not as fun to drive. It’s important to think about these things when deciding, with more information available about CTS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate smoothly to avoid using the turbocharger too much. The 2.0L engine responds quickly, but too much boost lowers fuel economy a lot. Gently press on the gas and watch the traffic to keep the turbocharger from activating and improve MPG.

Make sure the tires are properly inflated. Tires with low air pressure increase resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check the tire pressure often and keep it at the recommended level found on the driver’s side door.

Avoid idling for too long. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s better to turn off the engine. Modern engines warm up quickly and efficiently while driving, so you don’t need to idle for very long.

Keep up with regular maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups help make sure the engine runs at its best. When the engine is maintained well, it uses less fuel and runs more smoothly.

Plan your routes. Avoiding busy areas and using routes with less stop-and-go traffic can greatly improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps and traffic alerts to find and avoid areas with congestion.