21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s what you should expect from the 2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport AWD 3.0L 6-cyl. This isn’t a car bought for its low fuel consumption. It’s for buyers who prioritize a potent twin-turbo V6, sleek coupe styling, and all-weather confidence. It’s a statement of intent, and that statement isn’t “I’m interested in lower fuel costs.” It’s “I enjoy driving.” Fuel economy, while not entirely irrelevant, is secondary to performance and aesthetics for the Q60 Red Sport buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway reflect the Q60 Red Sport’s split personality. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to use the engine’s immediate torque will inevitably drag down your fuel efficiency. The AWD model’s heavy weight, approaching 4,000 pounds, also contributes to lower city mileage.

However, on the open road, the Q60 Red Sport settles into a more efficient cruise. The seven-speed automatic transmission excels at highway speeds, allowing the engine to run efficiently when not pushed hard. Still, those seeking truly optimal highway gas mileage need to resist the urge to frequently use the substantial power, as doing so will quickly erode those savings.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport AWD is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s important to understand that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. Drivers who frequently drive hard or spend most of their time in congested city traffic will likely exceed this estimate. Conversely, those who primarily commute on the highway and drive conservatively may see slightly lower costs. Potential buyers can view all Infiniti fuel economy data to compare this model against the rest of the brand’s lineup.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Q60 Red Sport drivers report figures ranging from slightly below the EPA’s city estimate to marginally above the highway number. Achieving the rated 26 MPG on the highway requires disciplined throttle control and a willingness to resist the temptation of the twin-turbo V6. Most owners report average combined fuel economy in the 19-22 MPG range, which aligns with the EPA’s figures, but shows that consistent adherence to the 21 MPG rating requires conscious effort. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even environmental conditions can influence your fuel consumption.

How it compares

The Q60 Red Sport’s fuel economy lags behind some of its competitors in the luxury sport coupe segment. For example, the BMW 440i xDrive coupe delivers around 25 MPG combined, offering a similar blend of performance and all-wheel drive with better fuel efficiency. The Audi S5 Coupe, another direct rival with standard AWD, achieves approximately 24 MPG combined as well. Even the Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe, with its more potent engine, often matches or slightly exceeds the Q60’s fuel economy. These differences, while seemingly small, can accumulate over time and contribute to a higher overall cost of ownership for the Q60 Red Sport. Buyers considering the Q60 need to weigh the Infiniti’s unique styling and driving dynamics against the more efficient alternatives available. You can research Q60 MPG across all years to see how this model has evolved over time.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Q60’s drive mode selector. The “Standard” or “Eco” modes will remap the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over maximum performance. These modes soften the throttle input and encourage earlier upshifts, helping to conserve fuel in everyday driving without sacrificing all the car’s performance capabilities.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb sticker. This simple step can noticeably improve fuel economy and extend tire life.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Q60 Red Sport’s powerful engine is tempting to use, but frequent bursts of speed and hard braking significantly reduce fuel economy. Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic conditions will allow you to maintain momentum and minimize fuel consumption.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. These services ensure that all engine components are functioning optimally, contributing to better fuel economy.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The Q60 Red Sport is already a relatively heavy car, so avoid carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or cabin. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload and reduces fuel efficiency. Regularly declutter your vehicle to eliminate excess baggage.