22 MPG combined. That’s the official EPA figure for the 2017 Cadillac CTS AWD with the 3.6L V6, and it’s a number that buyers of this car are willing to accept. The CTS isn’t primarily bought as a fuel-sipping champion; it’s purchased for its sharp styling, comfortable interior, and engaging driving. This variant, with all-wheel drive and the V6, is for buyers in colder climates who want confidence in all conditions and enjoy the strong performance of a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 CTS AWD 3.6L break down to 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the stop-and-go driving that slows down most cars, and the CTS is no exception. Its 3.6L V6, while smooth and responsive, needs fuel to deliver its 335 horsepower. The highway figure is more respectable, showing the efficiency of the eight-speed automatic transmission at cruising speeds. Long road trips are certainly possible in the CTS, but plan for more frequent fuel stops than you might find in a hybrid or diesel.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Cadillac CTS AWD 3.6L is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s projected national average fuel prices at the time of testing. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. Small changes in these factors can noticeably impact your yearly fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. Factors like aggressive driving, excessive idling, and even tire pressure can affect fuel consumption. Owners of the 2017 CTS AWD 3.6L generally report figures close to the EPA estimates when driven conservatively. Expect to see those numbers drop considerably when using the engine’s performance or in rush-hour traffic. Checking CTS MPG across all years can provide additional owner data.

How it compares

The 2017 CTS AWD 3.6L is in a competitive segment. For context, the BMW 530i xDrive, uses a smaller turbocharged four-cylinder, and achieves around 27 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz E300 4MATIC, another turbocharged four-cylinder competitor, posts similar figures. The Audi A6 2.0T quattro also hovers around 25 MPG combined. The CTS’s fuel economy is slightly lower, reflecting its larger-displacement V6 engine. This difference is significant for some buyers, but for those who want the sound and feel of a naturally aspirated V6, it’s often a worthwhile trade-off. Exploring all Cadillac fuel economy data offers more brand-specific comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Though the CTS isn’t a Prius, there are still ways to improve its fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions waste fuel. The CTS’s engine is responsive enough that you don’t need to floor it to get up to speed. Gradual acceleration will yield better results.

Regular maintenance is key. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and other maintenance items, as a well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need to warm up extensively before driving: idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed helps to optimize fuel economy. The CTS’s comfortable ride and driver-assistance features make it well-suited for long highway drives, so use cruise control.