19 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2015 Infiniti QX70 any fuel economy awards. This is what you can expect from a stylish, athletic crossover that emphasizes driving feel and looks over maximum efficiency. Buyers understand and accept this trade-off, attracted by the QX70’s unique design and fun driving.

City and highway performance

The QX70’s EPA estimates are 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving, where the 3.7L V6 works harder to accelerate the QX70 from a stop. The highway number is better, achievable when cruising at consistent speeds. These numbers show the vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses: the QX70 is better when allowed to stretch its legs on the open road, and less suited for dense urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Infiniti QX70 RWD 3.7L 6-cyl at $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is only an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will change depending on your driving habits, city versus highway driving, and local fuel prices. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices in your area are higher than the national average, your expenses will be different.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy can vary. QX70 owners should expect numbers close to the official numbers. Aggressive driving will decrease fuel economy, while smooth acceleration and consistent speeds can help you match the EPA’s figures. Many owners will see numbers closer to 16-18 MPG in combined driving, especially with a lot of stop-and-go traffic. Track your own fuel consumption to get a more accurate picture of your individual fuel costs with the QX70.

How it compares

The QX70’s fuel economy is lower compared to other mid-size luxury crossovers of the time. A 2015 Lexus RX 350, for example, achieves 22 MPG combined, which is a noticeable improvement. Even the Acura MDX, with its larger size and available all-wheel drive, could achieve around 20 MPG in combined driving. The BMW X5, specifically the sDrive35i variant from that year, gets a combined figure of 22 MPG. For buyers wanting better gas mileage, these are good alternatives.

However, those who value the QX70’s styling and engaging driving experience might accept the fuel economy difference, perhaps looking at QX70 MPG across all years for more information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

First, avoid aggressive acceleration. The QX70’s V6 is responsive, but frequent hard acceleration will quickly use more fuel. Instead, focus on smooth acceleration to save fuel.

Second, keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the levels on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Third, use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to better fuel efficiency. On long highway drives use cruise control.

Fourth, minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel without going anywhere. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine to save fuel. This is especially important in city driving where you might be stopped at traffic lights often.

Finally, keep your vehicle well-maintained. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that your engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses less fuel and performs better, so see all Infiniti fuel economy data to see if yours are normal.