Twenty-seven miles per gallon combined is acceptable for the 2024 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro 2.0L 4-cyl, but it’s not exceptional. This isn’t a hybrid, and it isn’t trying to be. The A5 Sportback S line is about style, driving dynamics, and practicality in a sleek package. Buyers aren’t prioritizing ultimate fuel efficiency; they want a premium experience with reasonable running costs, and that’s what the A5 delivers.

City and highway fuel economy

The EPA estimates for the A5 Sportback S line quattro are 24 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine works harder. The highway number is more appealing, showing the benefits of the seven-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds. Drivers who spend most of their time on the open road will find the fuel consumption manageable, while those primarily navigating urban environments will see a slightly higher frequency of trips to the gas station.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro at $2,150. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This number provides a benchmark for prospective owners, allowing them to factor fuel expenses into their overall budget. Keep in mind that individual driving habits and local fuel prices can significantly impact this figure. Aggressive driving or higher fuel costs in certain regions will lead to higher annual spending.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standardized comparison, real-world MPG can vary. Drivers with a heavy foot or those frequently using the A5’s quattro all-wheel-drive system in challenging conditions might see fuel economy closer to the low 20s. Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the highway may surpass the EPA estimate of 32 MPG. The A5’s driving mode selection also plays a role. Selecting “Efficiency” mode optimizes the engine and transmission for fuel conservation, while “Dynamic” mode prioritizes performance, impacting MPG. Drivers who carefully manage their driving style and use the car’s features can expect to see figures close to the EPA estimates. You can see A5 MPG across all years here.

How it compares

When compared to its competitors, the 2024 Audi A5 Sportback S line quattro’s fuel economy is competitive, though not class-leading. The BMW 430i Gran Coupe xDrive achieves a similar 27 MPG combined, making it a direct rival in terms of both performance and efficiency. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC Sedan is rated at 25 MPG combined, placing it slightly behind the Audi. The Acura TLX, while offering a sporty experience, typically achieves lower MPG figures, hovering around 24 MPG Combined for the SH-AWD variant. These comparisons highlight that the A5 strikes a balance between performance, luxury, and fuel consumption, appealing to buyers who aren’t willing to sacrifice driving pleasure for less gas.

Tips to maximize fuel efficiency

One of the easiest ways to boost your A5’s MPG is to adopt a smooth driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Let the car coast to red lights and try to accelerate gradually.

Proper tire inflation is critical for fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and thus reducing MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s load, impacting fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that are not essential for your daily commute. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Use the A5’s “Efficiency” driving mode when appropriate. This mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for fuel conservation. While it may slightly reduce responsiveness, it can significantly improve MPG, especially during highway driving. Switching to dynamic mode reduces the cars MPG by sacrificing fuel for performance.

Regular maintenance is key to maintaining optimal fuel economy. Ensure that the engine is properly tuned, and that air filters are clean. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, leading to better MPG figures in the long run. Adhere to the scheduled service intervals recommended by Audi to keep your A5 running smoothly. You can see all Audi fuel economy data here.