21 MPG combined won’t set any records, but for the 2017 Audi Q7 3.0L 6-cyl, it’s a reasonable result. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for hypermiling, it’s a premium SUV designed to haul families and their gear in comfort and style. Buyers in this segment prioritize luxury, safety, and technology over saving gas, but they still expect some efficiency. The Q7 delivers adequately to avoid feeling wasteful, without hurting the driving experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Audi Q7 at 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the Q7’s weight and the need to repeatedly accelerate drain fuel. The highway number is more respectable, thanks to the eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) that allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. While 25 MPG isn’t class-leading, it’s achievable with the Q7 fully loaded with passengers and cargo. These figures represent a useful baseline to understand the potential range on longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Audi Q7 3.0L 6-cyl to be exactly $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG figure, and assumes national average fuel prices. Of course, actual costs will vary depending on how you drive, where you drive, and the fuel prices in your area. But $2,750 represents a standardized benchmark for comparing operating costs with other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy can differ. Drivers who spend most of their time in congested urban areas might see figures closer to, or even slightly below, the 19 MPG city estimate. Conversely, those who primarily drive on open highways might find themselves exceeding the 25 MPG highway rating. Driving style, aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and high speeds, plays a significant role, as does regular maintenance. Keeping tires properly inflated and ensuring the engine is running optimally will help achieve the best possible fuel economy. Remember to check Q7 MPG across all years to get a sense of trends.

How it compares

The 2017 Audi Q7’s fuel economy places it in the middle of its competitive set. The BMW X5 xDrive35i, for example, offers similar performance with an EPA rating of 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Volvo XC90 T6 also is close, achieving 20 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Acura MDX, often touted for its value, achieves a slightly better 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, however this vehicle aims for a different part of the luxury SUV market. These differences matter because buyers in this segment are making a calculated decision. If fuel economy is a top concern, a hybrid SUV might be more appealing, but those models often come with compromises in other areas, such as cargo space or driving dynamics. If you’re instead interested in seeing all Audi fuel economy data, there’s plenty to dive into.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Q7’s powerful V6 encourages spirited driving, but a gentler approach to the throttle can significantly improve fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t require extended warm-up periods, so avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, especially in city traffic.

Keep the car well-maintained. Regular service, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine runs efficiently. A well-tuned engine burns fuel more cleanly and effectively.

Consider using Audi Drive Select. Experiment with the “Efficiency” mode, if equipped. This mode adjusts engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel savings, potentially yielding small but noticeable gains in MPG during normal driving scenarios.