20 MPG combined won’t win any fuel-sipping awards, especially in 2018, but for the all-wheel-drive Infiniti Q70 3.7, it’s the cost for a specific type of luxury sedan. This isn’t a hyper-efficient hybrid; it’s a V6-powered, leather-lined cruiser designed for comfortable commutes and confident all-weather performance. The Q70 buyer prioritizes a smooth ride, a well-appointed interior, and the surefootedness of AWD over outright fuel efficiency, accepting the MPG trade-off for their desired driving experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Infiniti Q70 AWD 3.7L achieves 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. That spread is fairly typical for a naturally aspirated V6 paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Q70’s 3.7-liter engine provides ample power for merging and passing, translating into a responsive driving experience around town. However, stop-and-go traffic is where fuel economy suffers most.

The highway figure of 24 MPG is respectable, allowing for decent range on longer road trips, if you keep your speed in check. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds will quickly diminish these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Infiniti Q70 AWD 3.7L at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Actual costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use.

Premium fuel is recommended for the Q70, further increasing the overall fuel expenditure. Consider how your typical driving aligns with the EPA’s assumptions to determine if this fuel cost accurately reflects your personal situation. For example, someone who drives primarily in stop-and-go city traffic will likely spend more than $2,900 annually.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world MPG often deviates. Q70 drivers report a range of fuel economy figures, influenced by factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure. Aggressive driving, characterized by frequent hard acceleration and braking, will negatively impact fuel economy. Fortunately, smooth and consistent driving habits will help you get closer to the EPA estimates.

Keep in mind that colder weather can also decrease MPG, especially on shorter trips where the engine doesn’t have sufficient time to reach its optimal operating temperature. Check Q70 MPG across all years to see what owners report.

How it compares

The 20 MPG combined for the Q70 AWD 3.7L puts it behind some of its competitors in terms of fuel efficiency. For example, the Acura TLX V6 SH-AWD achieves a combined 24 MPG. Even the BMW 530i xDrive, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, manages a combined 27 MPG. However, those vehicles offer a different driving experience.

The Q70 prioritizes smooth power delivery and a more traditional luxury feel, while some competitors focus on sportier handling or outright efficiency. Looking at the Lexus GS 350 AWD, which returns a combined 22 MPG, offers a closer comparison in terms of driving dynamics, though its fuel economy is still slightly better. Buyers considering the Q70 need to weigh its unique blend of comfort and performance against the superior fuel economy offered by some rivals. See all Infiniti fuel economy data for more context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. The correct tire pressure, listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door, minimizes rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially with seasonal temperature changes. Even a few PSI below the recommended pressure can negatively affect MPG.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth and gradual acceleration burns significantly less fuel than rapidly accelerating from a stop. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can also help maintain a steady speed, improving fuel efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in the trunk or cabin increases the load on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, such as golf clubs or heavy tools, to lighten the vehicle. This is especially important for city driving, where frequent stops and starts amplify the impact of added weight.

Keep your engine properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine is running at peak efficiency. A poorly maintained engine wastes fuel and produces more emissions. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your Q70 running smoothly.

Limit idling time. Idling consumes fuel without traveling any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so prolonged idling is rarely necessary.