25 MPG combined is a reasonable figure for the 2017 Audi A6 quattro 2.0L 4-cylinder. This car isn’t bought for hyper-miling; it’s purchased for its attractive design, engaging driving thanks to the quattro all-wheel-drive system, and respectable fuel efficiency that doesn’t detract from the ownership experience. This A6 configuration appeals to professionals and small families who want a premium driving experience while also considering running costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 A6 quattro 2.0T show the car’s usability. The city MPG is rated at 22, a figure that acknowledges urban stop-and-go traffic. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine provides ample low-end torque for confident acceleration, but this increases fuel consumption.

On the open road, the A6 shines. The highway MPG of 31 illustrates its ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds, thanks to the smooth eight-speed automatic transmission that keeps the engine in its optimal range.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Audi A6 quattro 2.0L 4-cyl is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a mix of city and highway driving, and based on national average fuel prices. Your individual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and the price of gasoline in your area, but this estimate is a useful benchmark for comparing the A6’s running costs to other vehicles. Premium fuel is recommended for best performance, which can influence your actual expenses.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standard, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Owners of the 2017 Audi A6 quattro 2.0T often report figures close to the EPA estimates, but driving style and conditions matter. Aggressive acceleration and frequent short trips can decrease fuel economy, while consistent highway driving can improve it. The quattro all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and stability, but it also adds weight and slightly increases drivetrain friction, which can impact fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2017 Audi A6 quattro 2.0T is competitive. The BMW 530i xDrive with its 2.0-liter turbo engine achieves a similar combined MPG, around 27 MPG. The Mercedes-Benz E300 4MATIC, with a 2.0-liter turbo, offers about the same, at 25 MPG combined. These figures show that the three German manufacturers achieve similar blending of performance and efficiency in their all-wheel-drive, four-cylinder trims. Competitors like the Lexus GS 350 AWD, offer a more powerful V6 engine, but often get lower fuel economy, typically around 22 combined MPG.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. Try the “Efficiency” mode, which optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel economy. It might slightly reduce responsiveness, but it can make a difference on longer drives. The A6 is a luxury sedan, so avoid frequent aggressive acceleration. Consistent speed and avoiding hard braking can improve your fuel efficiency.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy and causes tire wear. Check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra items add to the vehicle’s weight, which can hurt fuel economy. Declutter your car to reduce this effect.

Plan your routes to avoid heavy traffic. Traffic consumes more fuel than steady highway driving. Use navigation apps to identify and avoid congested areas. Keep your car maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and produces fewer emissions. You can also view A6 MPG across all years to see changes in fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This can improve fuel efficiency on longer highway stretches. If you’re interested in comparing the A6 to other Audi models, you can find all Audi fuel economy data on our site.