24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s a reasonable compromise for the 2017 Cadillac CTS equipped with the 3.6L V6. Hypermilers aren’t buying this car. It’s a mid-size luxury sedan designed for spirited driving, comfortable cruising, and making a statement. The fuel economy is simply what you pay for the performance and prestige the CTS offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6 at 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works harder and the S8 automatic transmission shifts gears frequently. The highway figure shows the engine’s ability to deliver respectable efficiency when cruising at a steady speed. The eight-speed automatic helps here, keeping the engine at lower RPMs and reducing fuel consumption. Drivers who frequently make long commutes will likely see results closer to that 30 MPG mark.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6 at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the EPA’s assumed national average fuel prices. Real-world fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline used. Cadillac recommends premium fuel for optimal performance, and that will increase the expense at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, your personal fuel economy will likely differ. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling all contribute to lower MPG. On the other hand, smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic flow, and minimizing idling can help you achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates, or perhaps even slightly surpass them. Consistent maintenance, including regular tire pressure checks and oil changes, also plays an important role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Cadillac CTS 3.6L V6 is in a competitive segment, and its fuel economy is comparable with its rivals. For example, the BMW 530i with its 2.0L turbo four-cylinder offers a slightly better combined EPA rating of 27 MPG. Drivers prioritizing the V6’s smoothness and power might see the marginal difference as an acceptable trade-off. The Mercedes-Benz E300, another popular competitor, comes in at 25 MPG combined, not much different. Even Cadillac’s own lineup offers an interesting comparison; see all Cadillac fuel economy data to explore other options. And exploring CTS MPG across all years reveals how fuel efficiency has evolved across model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use a light foot on the accelerator. The CTS’s V6 responds eagerly to throttle inputs, but every burst of acceleration burns extra fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration is far more efficient, especially around town.

Be mindful of tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The CTS’s comfortable interior is worth taking a break in anyway.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration which wastes fuel. Use this feature on long highway journeys for optimal efficiency.

Consider the driving mode. The CTS often offers selectable driving modes that can impact fuel economy. Explore these settings to see if you can find a balance between performance and efficiency that suits your driving style and conditions.