The 2017 Infiniti Q50 AWD, equipped with its 3.0L twin-turbo V6, achieves 22 MPG combined. This isn’t going to win any awards for being particularly green, but it’s what buyers should expect when seeking a blend of luxury, confident all-weather handling, and a seriously punchy engine. The Q50 3.0t AWD is for drivers who want a spirited driving experience without going all-in on a performance sedan.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Q50 AWD 3.0t gets 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The difference between these numbers shows how much the V6 drinks when working hard in stop-and-go traffic, compared to its better efficiency when cruising at a constant speed. The seven-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t geared for maximum economy. Instead, it prioritizes responsiveness and predictable shifts that enhance the driving experience. Highway mileage is respectable. The Q50 is a comfortable and relatively economical car for long trips, able to cover miles without needing to stop for gas all the time.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Infiniti Q50 AWD 3.0t is $2,650. This is figured using 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. This number gives potential buyers a benchmark for understanding the ongoing cost of owning the car.

Individual fuel costs will vary based on local gasoline prices and personal driving habits, but $2,650 is a reasonable estimate for most drivers.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy for the 2017 Q50 AWD 3.0t can change quite a bit. Driving hard, short trips, and long periods of idling will hurt fuel consumption. However, drivers who accelerate gently, anticipate traffic, and keep consistent speeds on the highway are more likely to get the EPA estimates or even better gas mileage.

Expect to see numbers a little below the combined 22 MPG if you often use the car’s 300 horsepower. If you drive more conservatively, you can reasonably reach numbers closer to the highway figure.

How it compares

The 2017 Infiniti Q50 AWD 3.0t is up against other luxury sport sedans. For example, the 2017 BMW 340i xDrive typically gets around 25 MPG combined, so it’s slightly more fuel-efficient. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC, with its smaller turbocharged four-cylinder engine, can reach up to 27 MPG combined. The Acura TLX SH-AWD with the V6 gets approximately 24 MPG combined.

These differences might seem small, but they can add up over time. However, Q50 buyers might like the Infiniti’s looks, technology, or driving feel more than saving a little on gas. All Infiniti fuel economy data shows there are better options within the brand if fuel economy is your main goal. Drivers interested in fuel efficiency across the Q50 model line should also review Q50 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Q50’s Drive Mode Selector. “Eco” mode will change the throttle response and shift points to save gas. It might make the car feel a little less responsive, but it can noticeably improve gas mileage, especially in city driving where the V6 engine tends to burn more fuel during hard acceleration.

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Checking and keeping the right tire pressure is a simple but effective way to improve fuel economy.

Avoid idling unnecessarily. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or so, turn off the engine. Modern engines are made to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. This is especially important with a larger engine like the Q50’s 3.0L V6.

Watch traffic and drive smoothly. Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking, as these use more fuel. By keeping a steady speed and expecting what traffic will do, you can waste less fuel and improve overall efficiency. On long highway drives, use cruise control where it’s safe to maintain a consistent speed.