Navigate to Steam-Folder/steamapps/compatdata/1222680/pfx/ .

This is the most common mistake players make. Need for Speed (2015) requires a persistent internet connection to save progress. You cannot "drag and drop" a save file for the 2015 reboot easily because it is stored on EA's servers (Cloud Saves). However, Need for Speed Heat is different. It allows for offline play, meaning save files are stored locally on your hard drive. This makes the process of using a downloaded save game entirely possible for Heat .

Using a save allows you to instantly access: