The 2022 Cadillac CT5-V demands 16 MPG combined for its unique brand of American performance. No apologies are offered, and none are needed. This isn’t a hybrid trying to look sporty; it’s a genuine muscle sedan, a relic of an era where cubic inches and superchargers were king. The buyer of this particular CT5 variant isn’t overly concerned with fuel efficiency, they’re buying a symphony of supercharger whine and V8 thunder, a visceral experience that prioritizes thrills over thrift. They’re accepting of the thirst because of what the engine delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway reflect the CT5-V’s dual nature. Stop-and-go traffic exposes the brute force of the 6.2L engine, constantly demanding fuel to overcome its considerable mass. The city figure underscores what happens when a large-displacement engine is repeatedly asked to accelerate from a standstill. However, out on the open road, where the engine can settle into a more relaxed cruising rhythm, the 22 MPG highway figure becomes achievable. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays a key role here, keeping the engine in its optimal range for fuel efficiency when the driver isn’t demanding peak power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Cadillac CT5-V at $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes a national average fuel price. Note that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Those who enjoy testing the CT5-V’s performance capabilities will quickly exceed this estimated cost. Consider the $3,600 a starting point for budgeting purposes, one likely to be surpassed.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy often deviates from the official numbers. Enthusiastic drivers should expect to see a combined MPG figure closer to the city estimate, especially if their daily commute involves heavy traffic or frequent bursts of acceleration. Gentle drivers prioritizing fuel conservation might be able to match or slightly exceed the highway rating. Factors influencing real-world MPG include driving style, weather conditions, tire pressure, and the use of accessories like air conditioning. It’s critical to develop realistic expectations based on your individual driving patterns.

How it compares

The CT5-V’s fuel economy puts it squarely in competition with other high-performance sedans. The BMW M3 Competition, for example, achieves a combined 19 MPG with its turbocharged inline-six engine. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S, with its own twin-turbo V8, is rated at 18 MPG combined. Even the Audi RS5 Sportback, with its slightly smaller V6, manages only 21 MPG combined. These comparable cars illustrate that peak performance usually involves a compromise on fuel economy, though the CT5-V’s numbers lag slightly behind the rest. For those seeking better efficiency within the Cadillac lineup, exploring all Cadillac fuel economy data is recommended. Alternatives include the CT5’s smaller, turbocharged engines, or the Cadillac Lyriq, the brand’s all-electric SUV. Comparing the CT5 MPG across all years to the other models will help you evaluate what you’re willing to compromise to get the exact performance you desire.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the CT5-V isn’t designed for maximum fuel economy, there are still steps owners can take to improve their MPG without sacrificing enjoyment. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The CT5-V’s supercharged engine responds instantly to throttle input, and a gentle foot can significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially around town.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels found on the driver’s side door jamb. Keep in mind that tire pressure can change significantly with changing ambient temperatures.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to keep the engine running unnecessarily. It’s an added benefit that turning off the car completely silences the exhaust.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration that can negatively impact fuel economy. Use cruise control on long highway drives to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce driver fatigue. While you’re at it, keep an eye on the adaptive cruise control settings, as some prefer to be further from the car in front of them, requiring more acceleration than others.