21 MPG combined reflects the trade-off in owning a 2016 Audi S4. People buy this car for its engaging driving, strong supercharged V6, and understated luxury, not fuel efficiency. That 21 MPG is simply what you pay to enjoy a genuinely capable sport sedan.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Audi S4 gets 18 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city number shows how stop-and-go traffic affects fuel consumption, where the supercharged 3.0L V6’s instant torque becomes available, but at a cost. The highway number displays the S4’s comfortable cruising. At 70-80 MPH, the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission shifts to a relaxed gear, and the engine runs easily, getting reasonable fuel economy for a performance car.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Audi S4 at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may change based on your driving, location, and gas prices.

Real-world expectations

S4 owners often report fuel economy close to EPA estimates, but this depends on driving style. Drivers who often push the engine will likely see numbers near the city estimate, or even lower. Drivers who accelerate smoothly and maintain highway speeds can sometimes exceed the EPA’s 28 MPG highway rating. Aggressive driving hurts fuel economy. Pressing hard on the gas pedal while merging onto the highway will send MPG plummeting to single digits.

How it compares

The 2016 S4’s competitors have different fuel economy. The BMW 340i, with its turbocharged inline-six, gets a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C400 4MATIC, another forced-induction V6, posts similar numbers to the Audi. The Cadillac ATS V6 manages around 22 MPG. The 340i is important, because it delivers similar performance with slightly better fuel economy. Comparing all Audi fuel economy data shows where the S4 sits within its own brand, and browsing S4 MPG across all years shows how this model’s efficiency has changed.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Check and keep proper tire inflation. The S4’s quattro all-wheel-drive system works best with consistent tire pressures, so it can roll optimally and minimize drivetrain load. The recommended tire pressure is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Use the Audi Drive Select system well. Selecting “Efficiency” mode can improve fuel economy by changing throttle response, transmission mapping, and steering assist. This mode reduces some of the S4’s performance, so only use it when efficiency is important.

Watch traffic flow and avoid accelerating and braking too much. The S4’s supercharged engine responds quickly, which can be tempting, but smooth driving helps maximize fuel economy. Coasting to red lights and keeping consistent speeds on the highway are effective ways to save gas.

Minimize idling. The S4 uses fuel when stationary with the engine running. Avoid idling, especially in parking lots or drive-through lines. Turn off the engine if you will be stationary for more than a minute.

Consider using premium fuel, even though it’s not required. The S4 is designed to run on regular gasoline, but some owners report slightly better fuel economy and performance with premium fuel; it has a higher octane rating, which can allow the engine to run more efficiently. Experiment to see if it makes a noticeable difference for your driving.