The 2015 Infiniti Q50S Hybrid AWD achieves 28 MPG combined, balancing performance and efficiency. It’s not designed to compete with high-MPG economy cars aiming for 50 MPG. Instead, it’s a sports sedan with all-wheel drive and a powerful V6 hybrid powertrain that offers quick acceleration and secure handling in various conditions. The Q50S Hybrid appeals to drivers who want a luxurious and engaging driving experience while reducing the fuel consumption associated with performance cars. Fuel economy is acceptable for the power and all-weather capability of this model.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 Q50S Hybrid AWD are 27 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure is very close to the combined number, which shows the benefits of regenerative braking and electric motor assistance in stop-and-go traffic. The electric motor reduces the gasoline engine’s workload at low speeds where they often waste fuel. Drivers who spend most of their time on the highway might not see as much improvement with the hybrid system, but 30 MPG is adequate for a vehicle of this type and age.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Infiniti Q50S Hybrid AWD at $2,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and fuel prices. Drivers who often use the Q50S Hybrid’s power may exceed this estimate, while more conservative drivers may spend less.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy varies based on driving style, terrain, and weather. The Q50S Hybrid AWD’s actual MPG often aligns with the EPA numbers, with drivers reporting combined averages between 26 and 31 MPG. To reach the higher end of this range, smooth acceleration and careful driving are important. Many drivers report combined MPG in this range.

How it compares

The 2015 Q50S Hybrid AWD competed in a segment with other vehicles; comparisons highlight its relative efficiency. The Acura TLX V6 SH-AWD, for example, gets around 25 MPG combined, making the Infiniti the more efficient option. Even non-hybrid competitors struggled to match the Q50S Hybrid’s efficiency. A comparable BMW 335i xDrive from the same year achieved around 25 MPG combined. The Volvo S60 T6 Drive-E, rated at 28 MPG combined, was closer, but it lacked all-wheel drive in that trim, a key feature for many Q50S Hybrid buyers. Drivers choosing the Q50S Hybrid over these alternatives often want a mix of performance, luxury, and all-weather capability and understand it is not the most efficient choice.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

One driver habit to implement is smooth acceleration. The Q50S Hybrid’s electric motor provides instant torque, letting you accelerate quickly. Avoid unnecessary hard accelerations, as these make the gasoline engine work harder and consume more fuel. Use cruise control on the highway when possible. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes unnecessary throttle adjustments.

Take advantage of the Q50S Hybrid’s regenerative braking system and anticipate stops. Decelerate smoothly to maximize the energy captured and stored by the hybrid battery. Avoid sudden braking where possible. This wastes energy as heat through friction and prevents the battery from recharging.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker. Properly aligned tires will improve fuel economy, handling and reduce tire wear.

Consider using the car’s selectable driving modes. If fuel economy is your main concern, switch to “Eco” mode, which adjusts the throttle response and transmission mapping for efficiency. For more information, including all Infiniti fuel economy data, examine our website. Or, for information about specific years, read about the Q50S MPG across all years.