The 2019 Audi A3 2.0T’s 29 MPG combined fuel economy won’t top any efficiency charts, but it’s respectable for a premium sedan that balances performance with driving pleasure. It’s not designed to compete with a Prius. Instead, it’s a small Audi engineered for a refined driving experience with a touch of luxury, and its fuel economy reflects this compromise. Buyers in this class want to save money on gas, but they’re also willing to accept slightly lower MPG than a purely economy car for the A3’s refined driving character.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 A3 2.0T gets 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure is important because many A3 owners live in cities where they value its compact size and maneuverability. The 35 MPG highway figure allows for comfortable and relatively economical long-distance travel, suitable for weekend trips or highway commutes. This is due to the A3’s responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and smooth-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AM-S7). This combination provides sufficient power for confident passing and contributes to decent fuel economy at constant highway speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Audi A3 2.0T at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may differ based on driving habits, fuel type, and local gas prices. This $1,500 benchmark provides a standard way to compare the A3’s fuel expenses to other vehicles. Monitoring fuel prices will also help you understand if you are trending towards the average.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful reference, but real-world fuel economy may vary. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying extra weight can negatively affect fuel efficiency. Conversely, careful driving and well-maintained tires can help you achieve or exceed the EPA numbers. A3 drivers who prioritize fuel economy and drive efficiently should expect results close to the official numbers, although weather can significantly alter that. For comparison, you can review A3 MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2019 Audi A3 2.0T competes with other entry-level luxury sedans offering a similar blend of performance and efficiency. The BMW 228i xDrive, for example, has an EPA combined rating of 27 MPG, slightly lower than the A3. The Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, another competitor, gets a similar 28 MPG combined. The Acura ILX, while not a direct luxury competitor, also delivers around 28 MPG combined. These differences, though small, can add up in fuel costs. A3 buyers are often willing to compromise slightly on absolute fuel economy for the Audi’s distinctive styling and driving experience. If you are looking for other models in the same line, you can check all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Using the A3’s drive select modes can help mileage. The “Efficiency” mode adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel savings. Using this mode during typical city driving can noticeably improve your MPG without sacrificing too much performance. Even if you don’t use “Efficiency” mode, selecting “Comfort” or “Auto” can still help conserve fuel.

The turbocharger is great for power, but it can also consume more fuel if you accelerate hard frequently. Aim for smooth, gradual acceleration, especially from a stop, to minimize fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking, which wastes energy needed to maintain momentum.

Regular maintenance is important for optimal fuel economy. Ensure scheduled oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire rotations are performed based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended levels, shown on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Removing unnecessary weight from your vehicle can help. Extra cargo reduces fuel economy and keeping your A3 clean, inside and out, can subtly improve aerodynamics and contribute to higher MPG. A dirty car won’t drastically impact fuel efficiency, but reducing drag and weight does make a small difference.