The 2017 Infiniti QX30 AWD 2.0L gets a combined 25 MPG, a reasonable figure. It reflects the QX30’s design as a style-conscious, compact luxury vehicle with all-wheel drive. It’s designed for urban environments and occasional weekend getaways, where efficiency is less important than how it looks and feels to drive. The target buyer likely prioritizes design, technology, and a premium experience over maximizing every last mile per gallon.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway for the 2017 Infiniti QX30 AWD. The lower city figure is typical for vehicles with all-wheel drive systems and turbocharged engines, as stop-and-go traffic increases fuel consumption. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder needs to work harder to get the QX30 moving from a standstill.

However, the 30 MPG highway figure is respectable, suggesting the QX30 can achieve decent fuel economy during longer, steady-speed drives. The seven-speed automatic transmission contributes to highway efficiency, keeping the engine at lower RPMs when cruising. Remember that aggressive driving can easily negate that advantage.

Annual fuel cost

The estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Infiniti QX30 AWD is $2,100, according to the EPA. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual cost can vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline used. Infiniti recommends premium fuel for best performance, which will further influence the total cost. The $2,100 figure allows potential buyers to compare the QX30’s fuel costs with its competitors.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but expect real-world fuel economy to vary. Some drivers report figures slightly below the combined 25 MPG, particularly if they drive mostly in the city or take frequent short trips. The QX30’s all-wheel-drive system adds weight and complexity, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency.

Driving style also plays a role. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will reduce fuel economy. Drivers who accelerate smoothly and maintain consistent speeds are more likely to achieve or exceed the EPA estimates. See the QX30 MPG across all years for user-submitted data to understand what owners are actually experiencing.

How it compares

The 2017 Infiniti QX30 AWD competes in a crowded segment of compact luxury crossovers. The BMW X1 xDrive28i offers slightly better fuel economy, an EPA rating of 25 MPG combined (22 city/32 highway) from its 2.0L turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. That increased highway MPG can make a difference for those who take regular road trips.

The Lexus NX 300h hybrid delivers significantly higher fuel economy at 31 MPG combined, though it costs more. However, the hybrid’s driving experience and higher price may not appeal to all QX30 buyers.

Even within the Mercedes-Benz family, the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC achieves a marginally better 26 MPG combined. (The QX30 shares a platform with the GLA-Class.) These differences can add up over time and should be factored into the overall cost of ownership. For more information, explore all Infiniti fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these consume excessive fuel. Focus on anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed. The QX30 is not a sports car, and driving it like one will hurt your MPGs.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially during seasonal temperature changes.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the QX30, are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and prolonged idling wastes fuel. This is important in urban environments where stop-and-go traffic is common.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload and reduces fuel economy. Remove any non-essential items from the trunk or rear seats. Even small weight reductions can contribute to improved fuel efficiency over time.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long journeys. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the system may downshift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.