19 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2015 Audi SQ5. No one buys this supercharged, sporty crossover to save money on gas like a Prius owner. They buy it for the 354 horsepower and the practicality of a small SUV; a pairing that requires compromise when it’s time to fill up. The SQ5 is about enjoying the drive while still having some everyday utility. Owners value performance and the Audi badge over saving money and are willing to pay for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect how the SQ5 performs. Stop-and-go traffic shows how much the supercharged V6 drinks, as the engine works to repeatedly accelerate the car’s weight. The highway number is better, possible when cruising steadily, as the engine relaxes. But if you use the SQ5’s power to pass other cars, and you will, that highway number will drop quickly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Audi SQ5 at $3,050. The estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a standard estimate, and your actual costs will change depending on your driving, location, and the changing price of premium gasoline, which the SQ5 needs. Consider this a starting point; drivers who like to drive fast should expect a higher annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

Official EPA numbers are a benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. SQ5 owners often report numbers lower than the EPA’s 19 MPG combined rating, especially if they drive in heavy traffic or accelerate quickly. Careful drivers who try to save gas can sometimes match or slightly exceed the EPA’s highway estimate, but doing that requires restraint that most SQ5 owners don’t have.

How it compares

The SQ5 has a specific performance spot compared to its rivals. The BMW X3 xDrive35i, with its turbocharged inline-six, has similar performance and fuel economy, getting around 22 MPG combined, a small advantage that might not be enough to change the mind of an Audi fan. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 AMG, a direct competitor, matches the SQ5’s performance and gets about 19 MPG combined. The Porsche Macan S offers similar thrills but usually gets slightly worse gas mileage. For a wider view of all Audi fuel economy data, looking at the whole lineup can show the SQ5’s consumption in context. Before deciding, review the SQ5 MPG across all years to see past trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use light pressure on the gas. While the SQ5’s power is tempting, accelerating hard reduces fuel economy a lot. Accelerating gently and predicting traffic can improve your MPG.

Watch your tire pressure. Tires with low pressure increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and keep it at the recommended levels on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid idling for too long. Modern engines are efficient when running, but idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps keep a constant speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which burns fuel. This helps especially on long highway trips.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove extra items from the roof rack, as they create wind resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Make sure the cargo area is organized to prevent items from moving and affecting the car’s balance.