The 2019 Audi Q8 3.0L 6-cyl achieves 19 MPG combined. This isn’t a Prius, and it doesn’t try to be. The Q8 is for drivers who want a commanding appearance, a luxurious interior, and good performance, not segment-leading fuel savings. Buyers are making a statement with a blend of SUV practicality and coupe-like style. While they might mention fuel prices, the Q8’s appeal usually outweighs any concerns about gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Audi Q8 gets 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. It’s a typical range for large luxury SUVs. The city MPG reflects urban driving, where the Q8’s weight and its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine use more fuel to accelerate from stops. The highway number shows that the Q8 can achieve reasonable fuel efficiency at consistent speeds, making it suitable for long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2019 Audi Q8. This assumes 15,000 miles per year and average national fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will change depending on mileage, location (fuel prices vary), and driving style. Expect higher costs with faster acceleration and frequent hard braking.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard comparison, but real-world MPG can differ. Many Q8 owners report numbers close to the EPA estimates in normal conditions. However, carrying heavy items, driving in mountains, or frequently using the Q8’s performance will lower fuel economy. Check resources like FuelEconomyHub.com to see Q8 MPG across all years and read about other owners’ experiences.

How it compares

The 2019 Q8’s fuel economy places it specifically within the luxury SUV segment. The BMW X6 xDrive40i, a similar stylish competitor, delivers about 20 MPG combined. The Volvo XC90 T6, a less “coupe-like” competitor, gets around 22 MPG combined. Even the Range Rover Sport, known for off-road ability and presence, gets roughly 19 MPG combined with its supercharged V6. The Q8 isn’t the most fuel-efficient but isn’t the worst either. To see all Audi fuel economy data and how the Q8 compares across the Audi lineup, browse our make pages.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Audi Drive Select lets you adjust the vehicle’s performance. “Efficiency” mode optimizes the engine and transmission for conserving fuel. Throttle response might decrease slightly, but the difference is small in everyday driving and fuel savings can be significant.

Check your tires. Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes.

Anticipate traffic. Drive smoothly to save fuel. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. By anticipating traffic and staying at a consistent speed, you can lower fuel consumption. The Q8’s adaptive cruise control also helps on the highway.

Reduce idling. Modern engines are efficient when running, but idling wastes fuel. If stopped for over a minute, turn off the engine, especially in drive-thrus. The Q8 has a start-stop system that shuts off the engine at lights and restarts it when you lift off the brake. This is helpful in city driving.

Remove excess weight. Extra cargo adds weight, increasing fuel consumption. Remove unneeded items from the trunk or cargo area. A lighter vehicle uses less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, improving fuel economy.