24 MPG combined won’t win any efficiency awards, but it’s the price of open-air motoring with all-weather security. The 2015 Audi A5 Cabriolet quattro isn’t about hypermiling, it’s a stylish, comfortable convertible with the added benefit of all-wheel drive. This car appeals to individuals who prioritize design, driving experience, and premium appointments over outright fuel savings. They understand that blending performance, luxury, and practicality comes at a cost.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Audi A5 Cabriolet quattro at 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine works harder and the eight-speed automatic cycles frequently. The highway number is more respectable, showcasing the engine’s efficiency when cruising at steady speeds. Note that this performance is specific to the quattro all-wheel-drive model. Front-wheel drive A5 variants boast slightly better numbers. While 21 MPG might seem low for an engine of this size, the quattro system’s extra weight and mechanical drag inevitably impact fuel consumption. The highway figure makes longer journeys less painful from a fuel cost perspective.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Audi A5 Cabriolet quattro at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a roughly even split between city and highway driving, assuming the national average fuel price. Naturally, individual fuel expenses will depend on driving habits, local fuel costs, and the proportion of city versus highway miles accumulated. If you primarily drive in urban environments with frequent idling, your fuel costs will likely exceed this estimate. Conversely, if you primarily drive on the highway, the cost could be lower than $2,400. The calculation assumes regular unleaded fuel, which is recommended for this engine. Using premium fuel will inflate your costs without demonstrably increasing performance or fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. Drivers who regularly engage the A5’s Sport mode or drive aggressively can expect to see figures closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even below. Factors such as tire pressure, ambient temperature, and cargo weight also influence fuel consumption. Maintaining the recommended tire pressure is critical for optimal fuel efficiency. Cold weather can decrease fuel economy, especially on shorter trips, as the engine requires more time to reach its optimal operating temperature. The best way to gauge real-world MPG is to track your fuel consumption over several tanks of gasoline using a smartphone app or spreadsheet. Review A5 MPG across all years to see how owners have reported their fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury convertibles with all-wheel drive, the 2015 Audi A5 Cabriolet quattro’s fuel economy is competitive, if not class-leading. For example, the BMW 428i xDrive Convertible achieves around 22 MPG combined, while the Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC Cabriolet delivers similar numbers. A rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 250C, if you can find one used, delivers a combined 23 MPG. Buyers considering the A5 Cabriolet often cross-shop these vehicles, weighing factors such as styling, performance, and features alongside fuel economy. Someone drawn to the A5 appreciates its understated elegance and the assurance of quattro all-wheel drive, even if other models offer slightly better mileage. Be sure to see all Audi fuel economy data for other comparison points.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a gentle driving style. The 2.0L turbo engine delivers ample torque at low RPMs, meaning there’s no need to aggressively accelerate from a standstill. Smooth, gradual acceleration minimizes fuel consumption and extends the life of your tires and brakes.

Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Maintaining a consistent speed, especially on the highway, is a surefire way to improve fuel economy. Use cruise control on long stretches of open road to maintain a steady speed and minimize wasteful speed fluctuations.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally weekly, and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the door jamb sticker, not the maximum pressure listed on the tire itself.

Minimize excessive idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there is no significant wear-and-tear penalty for doing so. Remember, an idling engine consumes fuel without covering any distance.

Lighten the load. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment. Every extra 100 pounds adds weight, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Carrying excess cargo significantly reduces fuel economy, particularly in city driving.