24 MPG combined is acceptable for the 2017 Audi S3. S3 buyers are more interested in a compact, premium sedan that delivers performance and refinement than saving gas. The S3 does this well, and its fuel economy, while not the best, is a reasonable trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Audi S3 are 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s behavior in different driving conditions. In the city, frequent stops affect mileage, and the S3’s quick acceleration can lead to more gas usage. But on the highway, the S3’s efficient 2.0L turbocharged engine and well-calibrated six-speed automatic transmission (AM-S6) let it cruise comfortably while getting good gas mileage.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Audi S3 at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may change depending on your driving, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. If you drive a lot in traffic or drive aggressively, you could easily spend more than this. If you drive gently, especially on the highway, your costs might be less.

Real-World Expectations

EPA figures are a useful comparison point, but actual gas mileage can be different. Some S3 owners report slightly lower numbers, especially in mixed driving. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and performance features can all use more gas. Some drivers who enjoy the S3’s quickness see combined MPG in the low 20s. Achieving or exceeding the highway estimate of 28 MPG is possible on longer trips, even with some spirited driving.

How it compares

The Audi S3 competes with other compact performance sedans. The BMW 230i, for example, gets 28 MPG combined, which is slightly better. The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 gets around 27 MPG combined. The Acura ILX, with a less powerful engine, gets around 29 MPG combined. The S3 is in the middle of this group. Buyers pick the S3 for its performance, design, premium interior, and standard all-wheel drive, features either not available or that cost extra on some competing models. Therefore, a small reduction in fuel economy is often acceptable. Explore S3 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Audi Drive Select system offers driving modes, including an “Efficiency” mode that adjusts engine and transmission settings to save fuel. This might slightly reduce throttle response, but it can produce noticeable savings, especially on longer drives. However, stepping hard on the accelerator will reduce these savings.

Check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which uses more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specifications found on the driver’s side doorjamb. This will improve your gas mileage and extend the life of your tires.

Avoid idling. Idling wastes fuel without going anywhere. If you’re going to wait for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, saving fuel.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Remove roof racks or carriers when not in use. They increase drag and reduce fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. Keeping the car clean and waxed can also help reduce drag, although the effect may be small. But if you are hyper-focused the details do matter.

Service your S3 on time. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance help with fuel usage. Ignoring maintenance can reduce performance and fuel economy. Check all Audi fuel economy data.