20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2025 Cadillac CT5 V AWD, equipped with its strong 3.0L six-cylinder engine, it’s a trade-off most buyers willingly accept. This isn’t a car purchased for its frugality; it’s a statement. It’s for the driver who wants a luxurious, sharp-handling sedan with power to spare, and is content to live with fuel costs that reflect that performance.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the CT5 V’s fuel economy further, revealing 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, heavy acceleration, and idling, all of which take a toll on fuel efficiency. The highway figure, however, demonstrates that the CT5 V can achieve respectable mileage during steady-state cruising. The ten-speed automatic transmission plays a significant role here, keeping the engine in its most efficient range at higher speeds. The all-wheel drive system, while enhancing grip and stability, does contribute to a slight penalty in MPG compared to a rear-wheel-drive configuration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Cadillac CT5 V AWD at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. Consider this $2,900 figure as a benchmark to compare against other vehicles you might be considering, and factor in your own personal driving patterns to get a more accurate picture of what you’ll actually spend.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Drivers who frequently exploit the CT5 V’s considerable power will likely see figures below the EPA estimates. Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds may find themselves closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the stated MPG numbers. The eagerness of the 3.0L engine combined with the car’s sporty character mean the driver will use the turbo power frequently. This behavior is the main factor in the difference between EPA estimates and real-world MPG.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the CT5 V sits in a predictable range. The BMW M340i xDrive, another performance sedan with all-wheel drive, achieves a slightly better 26 MPG combined. The Audi S4, with its turbo V6 and Quattro all-wheel drive, manages around 24 MPG combined. On the other hand, vehicles like the Mercedes-AMG C43, while offering similar levels of performance, can often be found in the same fuel economy territory as the CT5 V, right around 21 MPG Combined. These comparisons are important for a prospective buyer to see how the Cadillac’s fuel economy stacks up. For a broader perspective, you can explore all Cadillac fuel economy data. Drivers considering the CT5 might also compare CT5 MPG across all years to see if there are variations from year to year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The CT5 V’s potent engine responds well to smooth inputs. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. This car’s turbocharging system makes it extremely sensitive to throttle inputs, so be deliberate with the accelerator.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo adds to the overall load, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects, to improve your MPG.

Use cruise control during highway driving to maintain a consistent speed. Cruise control helps prevent unintentional fluctuations in speed, which can result in wasted fuel. Be mindful of road conditions and traffic when using cruise control.