| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline |
| Vehicle Class | Compact Cars |
| Engine Desc | SIDI |
| Start-Stop | Yes |
| EPA Vehicle ID | 40410 |
25 MPG combined is a respectable, if unremarkable, figure for the 2019 Cadillac ATS 2.0L 4-cyl. Let’s be clear: no one buys this car for Prius-like efficiency. ATS customers, typically younger professionals seeking a sporty, American alternative to the BMW 3 Series or Audi A4, prioritize sharp handling, bold styling, and Cadillac appeal over squeezing every last drop of fuel. Gas mileage matters, of course, but it’s further down the list than driving enjoyment and brand image.
city and highway performance
The EPA numbers break down to 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving common for many ATS owners who live and work in urban environments. The turbocharged 2.0L engine provides ample low-end torque for quick acceleration away from traffic lights. The highway MPG demonstrates that the ATS can cruise comfortably and efficiently on longer road trips, aided by its eight-speed automatic transmission that keeps the engine in its sweet spot for fuel economy at higher speeds.
annual fuel cost
The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Cadillac ATS 2.0L 4-cyl at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on local gas prices and driving habits, but the $2,300 number provides a benchmark for potential owners to consider alongside other ownership expenses like insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
real-world expectations
While the EPA estimates provide a guideline, real-world MPG often differs based on driving conditions and habits. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and prolonged idling can all negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, smooth driving, maintaining a steady speed on the highway, and minimizing idling can help drivers achieve or even exceed the EPA estimates. The ATS’s onboard fuel economy display can provide real-time feedback, encouraging drivers to adopt more fuel-efficient techniques. You can also compare ATS MPG across all years to see how this compares.
how it compares
Compared to its rivals, the 2019 Cadillac ATS 2.0T’s fuel economy is acceptable. The BMW 330i from the same year, with its own turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder, achieves a similar 28 MPG combined rating. The Audi A4 2.0T Quattro manages 27 MPG combined, slightly edging out the ATS thanks to its lighter curb weight and efficient all-wheel-drive system. The Mercedes-Benz C300 is also in the same ballpark at 26 MPG combined. Ultimately, the differences aren’t significant enough to sway a buyer solely based on fuel economy. Factors like styling, features, and driving dynamics are far more influential in this segment.
tips to maximize efficiency
Use the ATS’s Drive Mode Select system. In “Tour” mode, the car prioritizes fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle response and gear shifts for smooth, economical driving. Switching to “Sport” mode will improve performance, but comes at the expense of fuel consumption.
Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing MPG. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual. Consider sticking with the standard tire size if maximizing fuel economy is a priority. Opting for wider or larger wheels and tires can negatively impact efficiency.
Avoid unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or back seat adds to the vehicle’s load, decreasing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to lighten the load and improve MPG. A roof rack, especially when not in use, also creates drag that will reduce fuel economy.
Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control when appropriate helps maintain a constant velocity, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration that burns extra fuel. Anticipating traffic flow and coasting, where safe, instead of braking also saves fuel.
Proper maintenance is key. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections ensure the engine runs efficiently. Consult the owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule and stick to it diligently. You can find all Cadillac fuel economy data on the FuelEconomyHub.com site.