24 MPG combined is a figure that few Audi A7 buyers will celebrate, but few will lament either. This isn’t a frugal commuter car; it’s a sleek, German-engineered luxury liftback with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged V6. The A7 buyer prioritizes style, technology, and driving experience over ultimate fuel efficiency and is willing to pay a premium at the pump for that combination.

City and highway performance

The A7’s EPA ratings break down to 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the A7’s weight and the energy required to repeatedly accelerate contribute to lower fuel economy. The highway number is more representative of steady-state cruising, where the engine operates more efficiently and the aerodynamic shape of the A7 cuts through the air effectively. The seven-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s power delivery, providing smooth shifts and helping to keep the engine in its optimal rev range for fuel efficiency. The quattro all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial for traction and handling, also adds some weight and drivetrain loss, slightly impacting fuel economy compared to a front-wheel-drive alternative.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi A7 at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Filling the A7’s tank with premium gasoline, as recommended, will further impact the annual fuel expense. Understanding this figure provides A7 drivers with a baseline for budgeting their transportation costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized test results, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire inflation can influence the MPG you actually achieve. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel economy. Maintaining consistent speeds on the highway and anticipating traffic flow can help to improve fuel efficiency. Owners who frequently engage the A7’s sport mode, which holds gears longer and prioritizes performance, should expect to see numbers closer to the city rating, even on mixed driving cycles. The A7’s onboard fuel economy monitor can provide real-time and trip-based MPG data, allowing drivers to track their efficiency and adjust their driving habits accordingly.

How it compares

The A7 occupies a unique niche in the luxury car market, blending coupe-like styling with the practicality of a hatchback. Competitors like the BMW 540i xDrive, rated at 25 MPG combined, offer similar levels of performance and luxury while achieving slightly better fuel economy. The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC, with an EPA rating of 24 MPG combined, is a closer match in terms of both fuel economy and styling. However, the Porsche Panamera, while offering a more performance-oriented driving experience, suffers in comparison, with the base model achieving only 21 MPG combined. These comparisons matter to the A7 buyer who appreciates the Audi’s blend of attributes and is willing to accept a fuel economy figure that isn’t class-leading, but also isn’t a significant drawback. Potential buyers should also consider checking A7 MPG across all years to see how this model year compares to prior models as the A7 continues to evolve.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the A7’s drive select modes by selecting the “Efficiency” setting for everyday commuting. This mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for fuel economy, often resulting in a noticeable improvement in MPG. This mode isn’t about outright speed; it reduces throttle response and optimizes the transmission shift points.

Regularly check and maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure. Because many A7 drivers are interested in more models from the same brand there’s all Audi fuel economy data to review.

Minimize idling time. Modern engines are designed to operate efficiently even at startup, so there’s no need to warm up the engine for prolonged periods, unless the vehicle is operating in extremely cold conditions. When possible, avoid idling in drive-through lines and during extended stops.

Keep your A7 well-maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other scheduled maintenance help to ensure that the engine is running at peak efficiency. A poorly maintained engine will consume more fuel and produce more emissions.

Empty unnecessary cargo from your car. The A7’s liftback makes hauling cargo easy, but hauling unnecessary weight leads to more fuel burned. Clean it out from time to time.