The 2019 Audi S5 3.0L 6-cylinder gets an EPA estimated 24 MPG combined. While this isn’t the most fuel-efficient, it’s an acceptable tradeoff if you want a sport coupe or Sportback that emphasizes driving and good looks. This car isn’t for those trying to save every drop of fuel, but for people who want performance, luxury, and all-weather capability and accept average fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Audi S5 achieves 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the effects of stop-and-go traffic, and the highway figure shows its ability to cruise easily. The turbocharged 3.0L V6, along with the responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, gives you enough power to pass other cars and keeps the engine running easily at higher speeds. Getting close to 30 MPG on the highway is possible and depends on how you drive and the conditions. Driving aggressively will likely drop your MPG to the low 20s, while driving more carefully could get you to or even slightly above the EPA’s number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Audi S5 is $2,400. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual costs will change based on how much you drive, your driving habits, and local fuel prices, but this gives you a basis for comparison. S5 owners likely consider this cost part of the ownership experience, knowing that performance and luxury cost more than just the purchase price.

Real-world expectations

The MPG you get in the real world will vary. Driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure can all affect it. Expect to average somewhere in the low-to-mid 20s in mixed driving. Accelerating quickly and often using the S5’s performance will hurt your fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system adds grip and confidence, but it also adds weight and slightly increases drivetrain losses, which hurts overall efficiency. Some owners report numbers slightly below the EPA combined estimate, suggesting that the S5’s fun encourages drivers to ignore trying to save fuel.

How it compares

The 2019 Audi S5’s fuel economy is competitive compared to its rivals, but not the best in its class. The BMW 440i xDrive Coupe, for example, offers similar performance with an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe has more power, but gets a slightly lower 22 MPG combined. Even within the Audi family, there are differences. Looking at all Audi fuel economy data shows that the A4 Allroad gets better fuel economy, but does not have the S5’s sporty feel. The S5 is not the obvious option if you’re focused on MPG. Checking the S5 MPG across all years shows that 2019 is fairly consistent with other model years. The S5 puts performance and driving first rather than being the most efficient vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the S5 is made for spirited driving, you can take steps to improve its fuel economy. Make sure your tires have the correct recommended pressure. Lower tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which hurts fuel consumption and handling.

Do not accelerate hard from a stop. Smooth acceleration is more efficient than aggressive starts and stops.

Use the S5’s drive select modes. Putting the vehicle in “Comfort” or “Efficiency” mode will change the throttle and shift points to prioritize fuel economy. This reduces the S5’s performance, but can make a difference on longer drives in slower traffic.

Keep unnecessary weight out of the vehicle. More weight raises the amount of energy needed to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove things from the trunk if they are not needed. Be aware that accessories like roof racks increase wind resistance and reduce fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic. Braking and accelerating use more fuel than maintaining a steady speed. Navigation apps can help you find less crowded routes, even if they are longer. Regularly service your S5 according to its recommendations. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and gives better fuel economy.