28 MPG combined is acceptable for the 2016 Audi A6 2.0T, and reflects the compromise in a vehicle designed to offer both a refined driving experience and reasonable fuel consumption. This isn’t a hypermiling champion, nor is it intended to be. It’s a comfortable, well-appointed premium sedan for buyers who value styling, technology, and a touch of sporting character, and are willing to prioritize those qualities over absolute fuel efficiency. They want a car that looks good in the office parking lot, feels confident on the highway during long commutes, and boasts a cabin that makes even mundane errands feel special. The A6 2.0T delivers, and its fuel economy, while not class-leading, is a price many are willing to pay.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 24 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway offer a clearer picture of the A6 2.0T’s fuel economy strengths and weaknesses. The city figure suggests that stop-and-go driving will take a noticeable toll on fuel consumption, as is typical of most gasoline-powered vehicles. However, the 34 MPG highway rating is more efficient, meaning the A6 2.0T can cover long distances without excessive fuel stops. The seven-speed automatic transmission plays a key role here, offering smooth shifts and optimized gearing for both acceleration and highway efficiency. The relatively lightweight construction of the A6 also helps its fuel economy, particularly at higher speeds where aerodynamics become more important. Remember that these are just estimates; individual driving habits and conditions will inevitably impact real-world fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Audi A6 2.0T is $2,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on how many miles you drive, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. The $2,050 figure provides a useful benchmark for comparing the A6 2.0T’s fuel costs to those of other vehicles. The EPA estimates are based on regular fuel, though premium fuel is highly recommended in certain model years to preserve the condition of the engine longer.

Real-world expectations

While EPA ratings are helpful for comparison, they rarely reflect actual driving conditions. Expect that aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extreme weather conditions will negatively affect your fuel economy. Careful driving habits, consistent highway speeds, and regular maintenance can help you achieve or even exceed the EPA estimates. Some owners report figures close to the EPA combined rating, with some achieving better than 34 MPG on long highway drives. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle load, and even the use of air conditioning can all have a subtle but noticeable impact on fuel consumption.

The A6 2.0T’s driving experience might encourage the driver to use the throttle more aggressively, negating some of its fuel-saving potential. The key is to find a balance between enjoying the car’s performance and driving efficiently.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors in the mid-size luxury sedan segment, the 2016 Audi A6 2.0T’s fuel economy is competitive. The BMW 528i (2016), for example, achieves a similar EPA rating of 27 MPG combined when equipped with its 2.0L turbocharged engine. The Mercedes-Benz E300 (2017) with its 2.0L turbo 4, achieves 25 MPG combined. Some variants of the Lexus ES 350 (2016), considered a more comfort-oriented choice, can reach around 24 MPG. These comparisons show that the A6 2.0T isn’t a standout in terms of fuel efficiency, but it’s not behind either. The decision for buyers often comes down to factors beyond just MPG, such as styling, features, and driving dynamics. To review all Audi fuel economy data, you can browse our data. You can also review A6 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow to minimize braking and acceleration. The A6 2.0T’s efficient engine benefits from smooth, consistent driving. Avoid sudden bursts of speed or harsh braking, as these actions consume more fuel. When possible, maintain a steady speed on the highway to optimize the car’s fuel economy.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Ensure tire pressure is adjusted regularly based on seasonal temperatures.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle decreases fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and passenger compartment. Every pound counts, especially during city driving where you’re frequently accelerating and decelerating.

Consider using the car’s drive select modes strategically. The Audi drive select system may offer an “efficiency” mode that optimizes various vehicle settings for maximum fuel economy. Experiment with this mode to see if it suits your driving style and provides a noticeable improvement in fuel consumption.

Schedule regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A clean air filter is important for the turbocharged 2.0L engine.