26 MPG combined from the 2020 Audi A4 allroad isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it represents a reasonable compromise for buyers who prioritize all-weather capability, a luxurious interior, and decent cargo space over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle purchased by penny-pinchers; it’s a practical choice for those who need a premium wagon that can handle ski trips and the occasional unpaved road.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Audi A4 allroad break down to 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the allroad’s mission. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, taxes the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, impacting fuel consumption. However, on the open road, the efficient seven-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s optimized cruising performance allow the A4 allroad to stretch a gallon of fuel further. The standard quattro all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial for traction, does contribute to slightly lower fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive rivals.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Audi A4 allroad quattro is $2,250. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. While individual spending will vary based on driving habits and local fuel costs, this provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the allroad’s running costs against other vehicles. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, further influencing the overall expense.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world MPG can vary significantly depending on driving style, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and sustained high-speed cruising can all negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, gentle driving, consistent speeds, and well-maintained tires can help drivers achieve figures closer to, or even exceeding, the EPA estimates. Pay attention to the Audi’s driving mode selector and choose “Efficiency” mode when possible to optimize fuel conservation. It’s realistic to expect somewhere between 22 MPG and 28 MPG in mixed driving conditions.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the A4 allroad’s fuel economy is generally in line with expectations for a luxury wagon with all-wheel drive. The BMW 330i xDrive wagon achieves similar numbers, hovering around 25 MPG combined. The Volvo V60 Cross Country, another popular choice, offers roughly the same fuel efficiency at 25 MPG combined. The Subaru Outback, which occupies a similar niche but with a less premium badge, fares slightly better, often reaching closer to 28 MPG, largely due to its standard CVT transmission and less powerful engine options. For buyers looking at more traditional SUVs, the Audi Q5 with the same 2.0-liter powertrain achieves a similar 25 MPG combined, highlighting that the allroad doesn’t necessarily sacrifice fuel economy for its wagon shape.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure and maintain it consistently.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a steady speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel efficiency. This is especially effective on long, flat stretches of road.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel than gradual and smooth driving. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed to maximize your MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk or cargo area to lighten the load.

Consider the “Efficiency” driving mode. The A4 allroad’s selectable drive modes allow you to prioritize fuel economy. Selecting “Efficiency” mode modifies the engine and transmission settings to optimize fuel consumption, particularly during everyday driving.

For all all Audi fuel economy data and to explore A4 MPG across all years, visit FuelEconomyHub.com.