The 2018 Audi A6 2.0T gets 28 MPG combined, which is good fuel efficiency for a mid-size luxury sedan. Owners likely want German engineering, a refined interior, and respectable power and accept average fuel consumption to get it.

City and highway performance

That 28 MPG combined breaks down to 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway for the 2018 Audi A6 2.0T. The city mileage reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions that premium sedans like the A6 often encounter as commuters navigate city streets. The 34 MPG highway rating is a better figure, making long road trips relatively easy, especially given the A6’s comfortable ride and quiet cabin. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AM-S7) helps get the best fuel consumption at various speeds, balancing responsiveness with efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates fuel will cost $2,050 per year for the 2018 Audi A6 2.0T. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the EPA’s assumed national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. While not the lowest among its competitors, this annual fuel cost is reasonable for the luxury and performance of the A6.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and long idling can all hurt your MPG. Gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and regular maintenance can help you achieve or beat the EPA figures. All-wheel drive can also slightly reduce fuel economy. Many owners report numbers close to the EPA estimates, suggesting they accurately reflect the car’s potential efficiency under normal driving conditions. Owners interested in seeing A6 MPG across all years can do so here.

How it compares

The A6’s fuel economy is scrutinized when compared to its rivals. The BMW 530i, for example, gets a similar 27 MPG combined (24 city/34 highway) with its 2.0L turbo engine. The Mercedes-Benz E300 posts nearly identical numbers. The A6 isn’t as fuel-efficient as hybrid options. The Lexus ES 300h, boasts 44 MPG combined, significantly cutting fuel costs, but sacrificing some driving dynamics. Buyers choose the A6 and its German rivals because they prioritize a connected driving experience and a certain prestige that the Lexus lacks. For a broader overview, check all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize your tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy by around 3%. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure for your A6 and check them regularly, especially as temperatures change.

Anticipate traffic flow. The A6’s responsive engine and transmission can encourage spirited driving, but aggressive acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. By anticipating traffic patterns and maintaining a steady speed, you’ll minimize unnecessary fuel consumption and maximize your MPG, particularly in city driving.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle forces the engine to work harder, reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and cabin to lighten the load and improve your MPG. This is especially important for a car like the A6 where the base curb weight is already relatively high.

Avoid excessive idling. Letting your engine idle for long periods wastes fuel and increases emissions. Instead, turn off your engine if you’ll be stopped for more than a minute. The A6 has a start-stop engine feature, which can automatically handle this in many situations, but only the driver can avoid long idling when stopped for longer periods of time.