The 2016 Audi S5 Cabriolet offers open-air thrills and strong performance but gets 21 MPG combined. It doesn’t achieve great efficiency, but for buyers who value style, a potent supercharged V6, and the Audi brand, it’s an acceptable tradeoff. The S5 Cabriolet prioritizes making a statement, spirited drives, and the feeling of the wind. These buyers know they are trading some efficiency for a rewarding driving experience.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates for the 2016 Audi S5 Cabriolet are 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the supercharged 3.0-liter engine works harder. On the open road, the S5’s seven-speed automatic transmission excels at selecting the best gear for cruising, leading to the higher highway number. However, drivers who often use Sport mode or accelerate hard will likely see those numbers decrease, especially in cities.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Audi S5 Cabriolet to be $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which the S5 requires. This is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and gas prices. Still, $2,750 is a good benchmark for budgeting and comparing against other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy can be different. Drivers who regularly use the S5’s performance, especially the quick torque from the supercharged V6, will likely see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even a bit below. However, those who drive more gently and spend more time on the highway might get figures closer to, or even a bit better than, the EPA’s estimates. Tire pressure, air temperature, and the use of features like air conditioning can also affect fuel use. To get a full picture of all Audi fuel economy data, check owner forums and independent fuel logging websites.

How it compares

The S5’s fuel economy puts it in a certain position among performance convertibles. The BMW 440i Convertible, for example, gets about 25 MPG combined with its turbocharged inline-six, offering a slight gain in efficiency. The Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG Convertible, with its stronger AMG-tuned V6, is similar to the S5, accepting slightly lower MPG for better performance. Comparing these numbers to S5 MPG across all years gives you some context, too. The choice often comes down to prioritizing less gas versus strong performance and brand preferences. The S5 is competitive, but other options exist for those very focused on efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One simple way to get better fuel economy is to make sure your tires have enough air. Tires with low pressure increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. This small thing can make a difference over time.

Avoid accelerating and braking hard. The S5 Cabriolet is made for fun driving, but flooring the accelerator or slamming on the brakes uses more gas. Try to accelerate and brake smoothly to keep your momentum and not waste fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a steady speed helps the engine run better. Cruise control reduces speed changes, improving fuel economy during long drives.

Remove extra weight. Carrying extra items in the trunk or rear seats adds weight, which requires the engine to work harder. Take out anything you don’t need for your trip to improve fuel efficiency, especially if the S5 is your daily vehicle.

Keep up with regular maintenance. An engine that is well-maintained is an efficient engine. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, to keep your S5 running smoothly.