The 2021 Audi A8 L, equipped with the 3.0L six-cylinder engine, gets an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined. This acknowledges that it’s not a Prius; it’s a long-wheelbase luxury sedan designed for comfort and performance. For executives making deals in the back seat or families on long journeys, fuel efficiency is often less important than the overall experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the A8 L at 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects urban stop-and-go driving, where the A8 L’s weight and engine start-stop have a harder time saving fuel. On the open road, the 26 MPG highway figure is more representative of achievable steady-state cruising. The A8 L’s well-engineered powertrain and aerodynamics show their strengths in these conditions. These numbers are respectable for a vehicle of this size and caliber, even if they aren’t groundbreaking.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Audi A8 L 3.0L at $2,750 per year. This is based on 15,000 annual miles, EPA fuel consumption estimates, and the national average fuel price. Individual driving habits and fuel prices will change this amount. But, this is a standardized comparison point.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG will vary from EPA estimates. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and speeding will lower fuel economy. A gentle driving style and sticking to speed limits can meet or exceed the EPA’s highway figure. The A8 L’s fuel economy depends on the driver’s behavior.

How it compares

The A8 L’s fuel economy is similar to others in the large luxury sedan class. The BMW 740i, with its 3.0L inline-six, gets 25 MPG combined, and the Mercedes-Benz S500, with its turbocharged inline-six, gets around 24 MPG combined. The Lexus LS 500, with its twin-turbo V6, gets an EPA combined rating of 21 MPG, matching the A8 L. Hybrid options like the Lexus LS 500h get higher numbers (around 25 MPG combined), but offer a different driving experience. For buyers who care more about performance and the classic luxury sedan feel than ultimate lower fuel costs, the A8 L remains a good option. You can see A8 MPG across all years to compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. Try the different driving modes, especially “Efficiency,” which optimizes the engine, transmission, and auxiliary systems for the best fuel economy. The throttle response will be more relaxed, but it can make a difference on long highway trips.

Check tire pressures. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which impacts fuel consumption. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check your tires regularly, especially as temperatures change.

Anticipate traffic and avoid braking too much. Maintaining a smooth speed uses less energy than braking and re-accelerating. Foresight improves fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Don’t idle. The A8 L’s start-stop system helps, but avoid idling when you can. If you’re waiting for someone for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Don’t carry extra weight. While the A8 L carries passengers and cargo in comfort, avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the trunk. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload, which hurts fuel economy. You can find all Audi fuel economy data on our site.