21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2019 Infiniti Q70 3.7, it’s an accepted trade-off. This isn’t a car bought by hypermilers or those prioritizing ultimate efficiency. The Q70 3.7 appeals to drivers who value a potent, naturally aspirated V6 engine and a comfortable, luxurious driving experience over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline. They are looking for a specific flavor of performance and refinement, and they understand the gasoline demands that come with it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway highlight where the Q70 3.7 drinks the most fuel. Stop-and-go city driving forces the seven-speed automatic transmission to work harder, requiring more frequent shifts and burning more fuel. The Q70’s weight and the 3.7-liter engine’s eagerness to rev contribute to a heavier foot in urban environments. On the open highway, the Q70 fares better.

With less frequent acceleration and a more consistent speed, the engine settles into a more efficient cruise. However, even on the highway, the Q70’s focus on responsive performance means it’s not optimized for ultimate fuel conservation.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Infiniti Q70 3.7 at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year at the national average fuel price. This cost can fluctuate depending on the driver’s habits, local fuel prices, and the proportion of city versus highway driving. Drivers who primarily drive in the city or have a heavier foot will likely exceed this estimate. Conversely, those who primarily drive on the highway and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques might see a slightly lower annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing procedure, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact fuel economy. Factors like tire pressure, proper maintenance, and even weather conditions can also influence the numbers you see on your dashboard. Expect the Q70 3.7 to deliver figures in the high teens to low twenties in mixed driving. Some drivers might achieve the EPA’s 25 MPG highway figure during long road trips, but consistent city driving will likely result in numbers closer to the 18 MPG estimate. Remember to check Q70 MPG across all years to find real-world data submitted by current and former drivers.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury sedans of its era, the Q70 3.7’s fuel economy lands somewhere in the middle. A similarly powerful BMW 540i from the same year delivers slightly better economy, achieving around 25 MPG combined. The Q70’s Lexus GS 350 counterpart gets closer to 23 MPG combined, with better city fuel economy. A Cadillac CTS with its standard V6 nets around 22 MPG combined. For these luxury car buyers who value performance and comfort over ultimate efficiency, these small differences might not be enough to sway a purchasing decision. However, drivers considering the Q70 should acknowledge that more fuel-efficient options exist within the segment, especially among hybrid or smaller displacement engine options. Consider looking at all Infiniti fuel economy data to see how the Q70 compares to the rest of the Infiniti lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure your Q70’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel economy, and keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean engine and properly functioning components will improve efficiency.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. The Q70’s responsive engine can be tempting to unleash, but smooth, consistent driving will conserve fuel. Use the cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed and avoid the temptation to speed up and slow down unnecessarily.

Lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk to reduce the vehicle’s weight. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. For the Q70, this is especially important as its inherent heft, combined with a powerful engine, can amplify the effects of added weight.

Consider using a lighter grade of gasoline. The Q70 3.7 might benefit from a 87 octane fuel versus the recommended 91. Using a lower octane fuel can lead to slight improvement to MPG.