19 MPG combined is what you can expect when driving the 2019 Lincoln Continental with its 3.0L V6 and all-wheel drive. This number might seem disappointing with hybrid and electric vehicles available, but it comes standard with a specific type of driving experience: supple ride quality, confident power, and a genuinely luxurious cabin that prioritizes comfort. This Continental isn’t built for lap times or fuel efficiency; it’s designed for a quiet and effortless drive.

City and highway performance

The 2019 Continental AWD’s 16 MPG city rating shows how much fuel its engine needs in stop-and-go traffic. The 3.0L V6 offers effortless acceleration but isn’t optimized for maximizing efficiency in cities. The 24 MPG highway figure is more respectable, showing what this car is truly made for: long stretches of open road where its smooth ride and ample power shine. It’s a solid, stable cruiser perfectly suited for covering vast distances in quiet comfort.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that owners of the 2019 Lincoln Continental AWD 3.0L will spend approximately $2,300 per year on fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using the EPA’s combined fuel economy rating, and factoring in national average fuel prices. Real-world fuel costs can vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the kind of driving you do most often.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but your actual fuel economy will likely differ. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling can all significantly reduce your MPG. Cold weather and using accessories like air conditioning can also impact fuel consumption. A careful driver who anticipates traffic and maintains a steady speed on the highway can likely approach, or even slightly exceed, the EPA’s 24 MPG highway rating. Those who primarily drive in congested city centers will likely see numbers closer to the 16 MPG estimate.

How it compares

The Continental’s fuel economy places it within the luxury sedan market, where comfort and power are more important than efficiency. The Cadillac CT6 with the optional 3.6L V6 and all-wheel drive achieves a comparable 18 MPG combined. A BMW 540i xDrive offers a sportier drive and achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined thanks to its more modern powertrain technology, but it doesn’t focus on a plush ride in the same way that the Continental does. For those seeking better fuel economy in a large luxury sedan, the Lexus ES 300h hybrid is an option, but you’d sacrifice the Continental’s power and all-wheel drive capability. Considering all Lincoln fuel economy data depends on individual needs and priorities.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are important for getting the best possible fuel economy in the Continental. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to anticipate traffic to minimize hard braking. The Continental’s torque means you don’t need to floor the accelerator to merge or pass.

Proper tire inflation can also noticeably improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and make sure it matches the recommended levels listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Keep idling to a minimum. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turning off the engine can save fuel. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly, so idling is rarely the most fuel-efficient option. You can also check fuel economy across all Continental model years for any fuel-saving differences.

Reduce weight where possible. Carrying extra cargo in your trunk or backseat can affect fuel economy, especially in city driving. Remove any items you don’t need for your daily commute or road trips.