22 MPG combined is what you get with the 2015 Infiniti Q50 AWD with the naturally aspirated 3.7L V6. It’s a figure that won’t win any awards for lower fuel costs, but it’s understandable for a stylish, all-wheel-drive luxury sedan that prioritizes a visceral driving experience over saving fuel. This is for someone who values the signature exhaust note and confident acceleration of a V6 more than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium unleaded.

City and highway performance

The Q50 AWD 3.7L gets 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s need for revs to deliver meaningful power, something you’ll notice in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number is more palatable, and can be achieved on long cruises where the advanced 7-speed automatic transmission can settle into its tallest gear and let the engine run efficiently. A driver who primarily uses this Q50 for commuting within city limits should expect a slightly lower real-world number than the EPA estimate, while someone racking up highway miles should see numbers closer to, or even slightly above, 27 MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Infiniti Q50 AWD 3.7L to be $2,650 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s crucial to understand that this is an estimate and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and local fuel prices in your area. Keep in mind that this Q50 requires premium fuel, adding to the cost at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. Owners of the 2015 Q50 AWD 3.7L commonly report figures ranging from the high teens to the low twenties in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling can all negatively impact fuel economy. However, mindful throttle control, anticipatory braking, and sticking to highway speeds can help owners get closer to the EPA’s estimates, if not exceed them. Don’t expect Prius-like numbers, but with some effort, you can reduce the fuel bill.

How it compares

The Q50’s fuel economy is in the middle of its competitive set. A comparable 2015 Acura TLX SH-AWD with its 3.5L V6 manages around 25 MPG combined. Similarly, a 2015 Lexus IS 350 AWD earns around 22 MPG combined, virtually identical to the Q50. A 2015 BMW 335i xDrive, prioritizing performance, gets around 25 MPG. The IS and the Q50 are direct competitors, so the fact that they both get 22 MPG means shoppers are unlikely to base their decision on fuel economy alone. These buyers likely prioritize styling, performance, and features. For all Infiniti fuel economy data, browse our archives, or explore the Q50 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.7L V6 loves to rev, but try to avoid flooring it at every opportunity. Gentle acceleration and predicting traffic flow can significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving. The Q50’s instant MPG readout in the instrument cluster can be a helpful tool for watching your driving habits and identifying opportunities for improvement.

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Avoid unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the trunk or back seat adds to the vehicle’s overall weight and decreases fuel efficiency. Remove anything that you don’t need and only carry essential items. Even small amounts of weight can add up over time.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing fluctuations in throttle input. This can lead to improved fuel economy, particularly on long, uninterrupted stretches of highway. However, be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as it can sometimes lead to unnecessary downshifts and increased fuel consumption.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. Over time, carbon deposits can build up in the fuel injectors, hindering their performance and reducing fuel efficiency. A quality fuel injector cleaner can help remove these deposits and restore optimal fuel delivery, potentially improving MPG.