21 MPG combined is the compromise for the 2015 Audi S5’s refined power and undeniable style. Nobody buys an S5 expecting Prius-like fuel economy. It’s a performance coupe or convertible that can also be driven daily, and that duality is its primary appeal. The S5 shopper prioritizes driving enjoyment and a premium experience over outright efficiency, but still needs a car that won’t bankrupt them at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for the 2015 Audi S5 with its 3.0L supercharged V6 and seven-speed automatic transmission (AM-S7). The city figure is arguably the more relevant number, as S5 owners are likely to be zipping around urban areas, enjoying the car’s responsive throttle and quick acceleration. The highway number, while respectable, reflects a car that’s comfortable cruising at higher speeds but not necessarily optimized for maximum fuel conservation. The S5’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and stability, but contributes to a slight fuel economy penalty compared to rear-wheel-drive alternatives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,750 for the 2015 Audi S5. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel prices when calculated. Real-world fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and even the specific grade of gasoline you choose to use. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, which will naturally increase your annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, it’s important to set realistic expectations for real-world fuel economy. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and stop-and-go traffic will all negatively impact your MPG. However, smooth acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proactive maintenance can help you achieve numbers closer to the EPA’s estimates or even slightly better. Owners often report averaging around 20-24 MPG in mixed driving conditions, suggesting that the EPA’s combined figure is achievable with mindful driving habits. Explore S5 MPG across all years to get a sense of potential variations.

How it compares

The 2015 Audi S5 occupies a unique space in the market, blending performance and luxury with a degree of practicality. Competitors like the BMW 435i (later the 440i) with its turbocharged inline-six offered similar performance with slightly better fuel economy, often achieving around 24 MPG combined. The Infiniti Q60, particularly the older VQ-engine models, provided comparable power but generally lagged slightly behind in fuel efficiency, hovering around 22 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C400 Coupe/C43 AMG, with its turbocharged V6, offered comparable performance and fuel economy in a similar range. The S5 buyer chooses the Audi for its distinctive styling, refined interior, and the sure-footedness of Quattro all-wheel drive, accepting the fuel economy trade-off as a necessary part of the package. See all Audi fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The S5’s supercharged engine responds well to smooth, consistent throttle inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits drastically reduce fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel efficiency. Refer to the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and ensure that all four tires are properly inflated.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your trunk or rear seats increases the vehicle’s load, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need to improve fuel economy.

Consider using the Audi Drive Select system to choose a more fuel-efficient driving mode. Some modes will remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel economy over outright performance. While it might slightly diminish the driving experience, it can make a noticeable difference on longer journeys.

Ensure your S5 receives regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, which translates to better fuel economy. Follow Audi’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your S5 running at its best.