The 2022 Audi A6 quattro with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder gets 26 MPG combined. While this won’t win any hypermiling awards, it’s a reasonable compromise between performance, luxury, and all-weather capability. This isn’t a fuel-sipping hybrid attempting to break efficiency records; it is a refined German sedan designed for drivers who prioritize a confident driving experience, a luxurious interior, and the security of all-wheel drive in variable conditions. They are willing to accept mid-pack fuel economy in exchange for those attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Audi A6 quattro 2.0T at 23 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. These figures are particularly relevant considering the typical A6 owner. They likely live in suburban or urban areas with a mix of stop-and-go traffic and open highway stretches. The 23 MPG city rating suggests that frequent short trips and idling will impact overall fuel economy, but the 32 MPG highway figure indicates that the A6 can be relatively efficient on longer commutes or road trips, especially when employing cruise control. The automatic transmission’s seven gears allow the car to cruise at lower RPMs at highway speeds, contributing to fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi A6 quattro 2.0T at $2,250. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. This is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and local fuel prices. If you drive significantly less than 15,000 miles per year, your fuel costs will be lower, while more frequent or aggressive driving will likely increase your annual spending at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized fuel economy rating, real-world mileage can vary. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and even tire pressure can significantly impact fuel consumption. Drivers who accelerate aggressively can expect lower fuel economy than the EPA estimates. On the other hand, those who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic, and maintain consistent speeds may see slightly better numbers. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and oil changes, also plays a role in optimizing fuel efficiency. Checking A6 MPG across all years can provide insight.

How it compares

The Audi A6 quattro 2.0T competes with other luxury sedans in a segment where fuel economy is often secondary to performance and comfort, but still a consideration. The BMW 530i xDrive is rated at 25 MPG combined, slightly less than the A6. The Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC achieves a similar 25 MPG combined. The Lexus ES 350, a front-wheel-drive alternative with a V6 engine, boasts a slightly better 26 MPG combined. These figures are closely clustered, suggesting that the A6’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. Buyers heavily focused on less gas may cross shop the Lexus, but they are giving up the A6’s superior driving dynamics and all-wheel-drive capability.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use Audi Drive Select to your advantage. In “Efficiency” mode, the A6 will optimize engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel savings. This mode dampens throttle response and adjusts shift points, encouraging a more relaxed driving style that can significantly improve your MPG.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tires at least once a month and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, gradual inputs are key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The A6’s powerful brakes mean its easy to brake late and hard, but that wastes momentum — and gas.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, especially in modern turbocharged engines.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips. Use the A6’s adaptive cruise control to maintain a safe following distance and further optimize fuel efficiency. See all Audi fuel economy data for more context.