The 2020 Cadillac CT4-V with the 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets 23 MPG combined. This car isn’t targeting Prius or Bolt drivers; it’s for someone who wants a compact Cadillac with performance and is willing to accept middling fuel economy. Buyers in this segment prioritize driving dynamics and exclusivity over thriftiness, understanding that performance costs more.

City and highway performance

The CT4-V 2.7L gets 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, according to EPA estimates. The city figure is the more sobering one, revealing that stop-and-go traffic significantly impacts fuel consumption.

The 29 MPG highway rating is better, especially on longer road trips where the CT4-V’s comfortable seats and composed ride make it a pleasant companion. These figures highlight the trade-off in choosing a high-performance engine, even with just four cylinders, in a relatively small car.

Annual fuel cost

You’ll be looking at an annual fuel cost of around $2,500 to keep your 2020 Cadillac CT4-V 2.7L running, according to EPA estimates. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a roughly even split between city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the prevailing fuel prices in your area.

Keep in mind, premium fuel is recommended for optimal engine performance, which will further impact the annual cost.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy often deviates from EPA figures. Aggressive driving, extended idling, and even weather conditions can impact your mileage. Many CT4-V drivers report numbers within a few MPG of the EPA estimates, but lower figures in primarily city driving or with a heavy foot are common. The 20 MPG mark in the city may prove optimistic if you regularly encounter gridlock. Sustained highway cruising may yield slightly better results than the 29 MPG estimate, especially if you’re mindful of your speed.

How it Compares

The CT4-V’s fuel economy is a mixed bag when stacked against its competitors. A BMW 330i, a frequent benchmark in this class, typically achieves around 28 MPG combined. The Audi A4, known for its efficiency, can often surpass 30 MPG in combined driving. Even the Mercedes-Benz C300 manages slightly better numbers, usually hovering around 25 MPG combined. The CT4-V’s figures put it at the lower end of the spectrum among sporty compact sedans. However, its 2.7L turbo offers a different character than many competitors, with a torque-rich delivery that some drivers prefer, explaining why some may accept the mileage penalty. If you are interested in more information, check out CT4 MPG across all years.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly exploit the engine’s power. The 2.7L turbo in the CT4-V is responsive, but frequent hard acceleration will quickly deplete your fuel tank. Smooth and gradual acceleration, particularly from a standstill, can noticeably improve your fuel economy without sacrificing too much enjoyment.

Use the CT4-V’s drive modes. Select the “Tour” mode or the equivalent fuel-saving setting for everyday driving. This recalibrates the throttle response and shift mapping to prioritize efficiency over performance and keep the revs down.

Regular maintenance is critical. Keep your tires properly inflated, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces fuel economy and ensure your engine oil is always at the correct level and interval for optimal performance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.

Minimize idling time. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel unnecessarily. Turn off the engine if you anticipate a wait longer than a minute. Learn all Cadillac fuel economy data to compare models.

Consider using cruise control on the highway when conditions allow. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can improve your highway fuel economy. Remember to remain attentive and adjust your speed as needed for changing traffic conditions.