The 2024 Audi A3 quattro 2.0L 4-cyl gets 30 MPG combined, which isn’t record-breaking, but is acceptable for a stylish, premium compact sedan with all-wheel drive. It’s not a hyper-efficient hybrid, nor is it meant to be. This A3 is for buyers who want a refined driving experience, premium design, and quattro’s confidence in all conditions, even if it means sacrificing top-tier fuel sipping.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the A3 gets 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, reflecting how the engine and transmission work. The engine is tuned for usable low-end torque, making it responsive around town. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AM-S7) keeps the engine in its best range, contributing to decent city fuel economy. On the open road, the transmission’s higher gears let the engine run easily, improving highway fuel efficiency. These estimates are realistic, but your mileage may vary based on your driving style and the conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Audi A3 quattro 2.0L 4-cyl is $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles a year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful way to compare running costs with other vehicles you’re thinking about. Fuel prices change, and your driving habits affect your actual expenses.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a baseline, but real-world MPG often differs. The A3’s quattro all-wheel-drive system provides better traction and handling but adds weight and complexity, which can slightly reduce fuel economy compared to a front-wheel-drive version. Hard acceleration, frequent stop-and-go traffic, and long idling will also lower your miles per gallon. Easy driving, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you meet or exceed the EPA’s estimates. The A3’s relatively small size also means that even a little extra weight from passengers or cargo can have a noticeable impact.

How it compares

The A3’s fuel economy is similar to other premium compact sedans. The BMW 228i xDrive, also with all-wheel drive, gets around 28 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 4MATIC is another competitor, with similar fuel efficiency in its all-wheel-drive form. The front-wheel-drive Acura Integra gets around 33 MPG combined, which is better than the Audi. For A3 buyers who care less about all-wheel drive and are willing to trade some luxury for better MPG, the Integra is another option, showing the tradeoffs in drivetrain choices. You can browse A3 MPG across all years for a broader view of the car’s efficiency over time. Also be sure to check all Audi fuel economy data for a comparison against other models in the Audi lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the A3’s drive select modes. “Efficiency” mode optimizes the engine and transmission for fuel conservation, reducing throttle response and shifting at lower RPMs. This is useful for highway cruising or when fuel economy is key.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Even a small pressure difference can matter over time.

Avoid idling. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting a modern engine uses very little fuel and is more efficient than idling for a long time.

Drive smoothly and watch traffic. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Gentle, consistent driving uses less fuel. Look ahead and predict traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking and acceleration.