19 MPG combined is what you get with the 2019 Lincoln Continental AWD with the 3.7L V6. This isn’t the fuel economy of a frugal commuter; it’s the fuel consumption you accept to gain access to a well-appointed, spacious sedan with all-weather capability and a smooth, effortless driving experience. It’s a compromise, and one that Lincoln buyers generally understand going in.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide a breakdown of where the Continental’s fuel efficiency shines, and where it struggles. The city rating of 16 MPG reflects the engine’s workload in stop-and-go traffic, constantly accelerating a vehicle that weighs over 4,200 pounds. The automatic transmission, even with its six speeds, has to work hard to keep the engine in its optimal power band.

Out on the open road, the Continental’s 24 MPG highway rating is more respectable. At a steady cruise, the engine is less stressed, and the aerodynamics, while not groundbreaking, allow for more efficient travel. This spread between city and highway indicates that drivers who spend a significant amount of time in urban areas will see lower overall fuel economy than those who primarily use the Continental for longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Lincoln Continental AWD 3.7L is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. While individual costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, this figure provides a benchmark for potential owners to consider. It’s a relatively high cost compared to smaller sedans, but it falls in line with other large, all-wheel-drive luxury vehicles. Prospective owners should factor this into their overall budget alongside insurance, maintenance, and other ownership expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can influence the numbers you actually see on the dashboard. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and sustained high speeds will all negatively impact fuel economy. Keeping the tires properly inflated and performing regular maintenance can help to optimize efficiency.

Remember that cold weather can also reduce fuel economy, as the engine requires more fuel to reach its optimal operating temperature. Understanding these variables will help you manage your expectations and drive in a way that maximizes fuel savings.

How it compares

The 2019 Continental’s fuel economy places it in a specific competitive landscape. For example, the Genesis G80 AWD with its base 3.8L V6 achieves around 18 MPG combined, similar to the Continental but often at a lower price point. BMW’s 540i xDrive, although offering significantly more power, can often achieve close to 24 MPG combined thanks to its more modern engine technology. Even Lincoln’s own MKZ with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine offers significantly better fuel economy, often exceeding 25 MPG combined, at the expense of some of the Continental’s luxurious space and presence. These comparisons are important to the Continental buyer as they are weighing their priorities: pure luxury and size versus fuel efficiency and running costs. You can find all Lincoln fuel economy data for comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to saving fuel in the Continental. The 3.7L V6 is responsive, but avoid stomping on the gas pedal unless truly necessary. Gradual acceleration from a stop and anticipating traffic flow will significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. The Continental is designed for comfortable cruising, and its aerodynamics become more effective at higher speeds. Using cruise control on long stretches of road can help maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Tire pressure directly impacts rolling resistance, and underinflated tires require the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the overall weight, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to improve fuel economy.

Consider the Continental’s drive modes. While the specific modes may vary, explore if your Continental offers an “Eco” or “Efficiency” mode. These modes typically adjust the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel economy over performance. Also be sure to explore CONTINENTAL MPG across all years to see if a different model year gives you better MPG.