The 2015 Audi A5 quattro 2.0L gets 24 MPG combined. While this isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, it reflects a trade-off: performance and all-weather confidence in a stylish coupe, balanced against middling fuel consumption. Buyers of the A5 likely prioritize design, technology, and the sure-footedness of quattro all-wheel drive. If efficiency was the main goal, they’d shop for something else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go conditions common in urban commutes, situations where the A5’s turbocharger spools up frequently, requiring more fuel. The highway number, however, is more appealing, showing a vehicle well-suited for longer journeys where the engine settles into a more economical rhythm. The eight-speed automatic transmission plays a key role here, offering a wide spread of ratios that allow the engine to operate efficiently at cruising speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2015 Audi A5 quattro. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (the A5 is a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV)), and local fuel prices. Spend more time in city traffic or drive aggressively, and you’ll likely exceed that $2,400 estimate. Drive primarily on the highway and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques, and you may come in under that figure.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling can all negatively impact the A5’s MPG. Many drivers report figures close to the EPA estimates, but variations can occur depending on driving style and environmental conditions. The A5’s all-wheel-drive system delivers superior traction, but adds weight and complexity, inevitably affecting fuel consumption. Check out A5 MPG across all years to see how this model compares to others.

How it compares

The 2015 Audi A5’s fuel economy is generally in line with its competitors, but there are nuances. For instance, the BMW 428i xDrive coupe of the same year, also with all-wheel drive, posts a similar combined MPG figure. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic coupe might offer slightly better MPG numbers. These are not dramatic differences. The A5 buyer is likely cross-shopping these vehicles, weighing factors like design, interior quality, and driving dynamics, rather than focusing solely on a marginal difference of 1 or 2 MPG. For a broader view of all brands, consult all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the A5’s cruise control system on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed improves fuel economy and reduces driver fatigue. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, steady pace whenever possible.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure specified in the owner’s manual or on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Keep idling time to a minimum. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute or two. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. Remember that the 2.0-liter turbo works more efficiently above 2,000 RPM; avoid short-shifting to keep the engine in its optimal powerband.

Consider using the A5’s “Efficiency” drive mode, if equipped. This mode typically adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel economy. While it may slightly reduce the car’s responsiveness, it can contribute to noticeable fuel savings.