22 MPG combined won’t amaze anyone, but it’s what buyers of the 2016 Audi Q5 2.0T accept when they want a specific set of features. This is not a fuel-sipping hybrid; it’s a compact luxury SUV often chosen for its image, quattro all-wheel drive, and driving experience. The fuel economy, while not the best, is part of owning it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for the 2016 Audi Q5 2.0T. That highway number is particularly important, as many Q5s are used for longer commutes or weekend trips. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, with an eight-speed automatic transmission, gives enough power for passing and merging easily. The city mileage reflects urban driving’s stop-and-go conditions, but the highway number shows the Q5 can be reasonably efficient on longer drives. Driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure can change these numbers, so results will vary.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that 2016 Audi Q5 2.0T owners will spend $2,650 on fuel per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with both city and highway driving, and assumes average fuel prices at the time. Fluctuating gas prices can change this. The annual fuel cost gives a benchmark to compare the Q5’s expenses with other vehicles. It’s good for budgeting and seeing the long-term financial costs of owning this SUV.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates give a standard comparison, real-world fuel economy often isn’t the same. Many Q5 owners report numbers close to the estimates, but aggressive driving or short trips can lower the average. The quattro all-wheel-drive system improves traction and handling, but it adds weight and uses more fuel than a front-wheel-drive system. Think about your driving habits and adjust your expectations. Check out Q5 MPG across all years to see how the 2016 model compares to other years.

How it compares

The 2016 Audi Q5 2.0T’s fuel economy is average compared to competitors. The BMW X3 xDrive28i, with a similar 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, gets an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, which is a bit better than the Q5. The Acura RDX, with its V6 engine, has a 22 MPG combined rating, like the Q5, but uses more fuel for more power. The Lexus NX 200t, rated at 25 MPG combined, is a more fuel-efficient luxury compact SUV. The Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4MATIC achieves an EPA estimate of 24 MPG combined as well. For buyers who want to save fuel, the Lexus NX is a good option, but some may prefer the Q5’s engineering, quattro all-wheel drive, and interior design, even if the MPG is slightly lower.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Make sure your tires are inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended level, which is on the sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Low rolling resistance tires will also give slightly better efficiency.

Avoid idling too long. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart fast, so it’s cheaper to switch off the engine than to let it idle, especially with current gas prices.

Drive smoothly. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, as these use more fuel. Keep a steady speed on the highway and watch traffic to avoid unnecessary speed changes. The Q5’s smooth eight-speed transmission works well with a light foot, giving you better fuel economy.

Use the Q5’s Drive Select modes. If you want better fuel efficiency, choose the “Efficiency” mode (if equipped) to set the engine and transmission for maximum MPG. This mode might reduce power a bit, but it can make a difference on longer drives. For all Audi fuel economy data, see the driving habits of other Audi owners.