The EPA estimates 20 MPG combined for the 2017 Lincoln Continental AWD with the 2.7L turbocharged V6. While not a great number, it’s a calculated compromise for buyers who want strong power, luxury, and all-weather confidence in an American grand touring sedan.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Continental AWD 2.7L gets 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharger is frequently boosting. The highway rating shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, using its six-speed automatic transmission to maintain relatively low RPMs. These ratings are typical for a car of this size, weight, and power, and are largely a result of its technology. The Continental is a smooth cruiser, but lacks fuel-saving technologies like cylinder deactivation or a modern eight- or ten-speed transmission.

Annual fuel cost

The annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lincoln Continental AWD 2.7L is about $2,200, according to the EPA. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, at the national average fuel price. Individual costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway miles driven. Premium fuel is recommended, but not required, which could increase this figure if you always use it.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary quite a bit. Drivers with a heavy foot, those who primarily drive in congested urban areas, or who regularly use the car’s more performance-oriented drive modes are likely to see numbers below the EPA’s 20 MPG combined rating. However, drivers who want better fuel efficiency, maintain steady speeds, and mostly drive on the highway may get numbers closer to or even slightly exceeding the 25 MPG highway estimate.

How it compares

The 2017 Continental’s fuel economy places it in a specific spot in the luxury sedan market. The BMW 530i xDrive from the same year, rated at 27 MPG combined, gets better gas mileage. Or consider the Mercedes-Benz E300 4MATIC, which gets 25 MPG combined. These competitors focus on fuel efficiency with smaller turbocharged four-cylinder engines and more advanced transmissions. However, the Continental’s target customer often accepts this tradeoff for the larger V6 engine, which provides a smoother, more effortless power delivery, as well as the unique styling and character that makes it different. For those considering other Lincoln models, be sure to check out all all Lincoln fuel economy data. You can also explore the CONTINENTAL MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adjust your tire pressures to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which you’ll find on the door jamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which uses more fuel. Check and adjust tire pressures regularly to ensure the best efficiency. This is important for a heavy sedan like the Continental.

Watch traffic flow and avoid fast acceleration or braking. The Continental’s turbocharged engine responds quickly, but rapid acceleration uses much more fuel. Keeping a smooth and consistent speed minimizes unnecessary fuel consumption and maximizes efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you think you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are made to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. This is especially true during cold starts, as the engine uses more fuel when cold.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing roof racks or cargo carriers when you don’t need them. These things increase wind resistance, especially at highway speeds. Keeping the car clean and free of extra stuff will improve its aerodynamic efficiency.