21 MPG combined won’t win any awards for fuel efficiency, especially in 2024. But the 2020 Audi A8 L 3.0L isn’t bought by people seeking maximum economy. It’s a long-wheelbase luxury sedan, purchased by those who prioritize space, comfort, technology, and a refined driving experience. The fuel consumption is simply a cost of entry for everything else this executive car provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 A8 L reflect a realistic split between city and highway driving. The city MPG rating of 17 acknowledges the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the A8 L’s weight and the energy required to repeatedly accelerate take their toll. The smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission minimizes some of the inefficiency. Out on the open road, the A8 L fares considerably better, achieving 26 MPG on the highway. This figure is attainable because the engine cruises comfortably at lower RPMs, benefiting from its ample torque and aerodynamic design. For long road trips, the A8 L manages respectable fuel mileage considering its size and performance capabilities. For better numbers, check out A8 MPG across all years to see if updates improved efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Audi A8 L is $2,750. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary considerably depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. The A8 L doesn’t require premium fuel, but using it could slightly improve performance and potentially offset some of the cost difference through improved fuel economy, though this is largely unproven.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often diverges from the official ratings. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can influence fuel consumption. Drivers with a heavier foot or those who frequently encounter congested traffic may see their MPG numbers fall below the EPA estimates. On the other hand, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds on the highway may be able to match or even exceed the EPA’s 26 MPG rating. The 48V mild-hybrid system assists with start/stop functionality and provides a slight boost to efficiency, but its impact is most noticeable in city driving, where it helps to reduce fuel consumption during frequent stops.

How it compares

In the realm of large luxury sedans, the 2020 Audi A8 L’s fuel economy positions it competitively, but not at the top of the list. The BMW 740i, with its similarly sized 3.0L inline-six engine, achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz S450, another key rival, hovers around the same 23 MPG mark. The Lexus LS 500, with its 3.5L V6, delivers similar if not slightly worse fuel economy in the low 20s. Buyers cross-shopping these vehicles may consider hybrid options for better fuel economy, like the Mercedes-Benz S560e plug-in hybrid, though that vehicle carries a significantly higher price tag. These comparisons matter to A8 L shoppers, even if fuel efficiency isn’t their primary concern. If you’re curious about this brand’s efficiency, browse all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the simplest ways to improve fuel economy in the 2020 A8 L is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits consume a significant amount of fuel. Instead, focus on anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed whenever possible, letting the car’s torque do the work.

Regular maintenance is important in optimizing fuel efficiency. Ensure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. And keeping the engine properly tuned and replacing air filters as needed ensures that the engine is running at its peak efficiency.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying around excessive cargo in the trunk only adds to the A8 L’s already substantial curb weight, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items that are not essential for daily driving to lighten the load and improve MPG.

Use the A8 L’s drive select modes. Experiment with the “Efficiency” mode, which optimizes various vehicle settings to prioritize fuel conservation. This mode may adjust throttle response, transmission shift points, and even climate control settings to minimize energy consumption. While it may slightly reduce performance, the fuel savings can be worthwhile, especially during long commutes.