21 MPG combined may not be class-leading in 2016, but it is what to expect for the 2016 Audi S7. This isn’t a car for budget-minded commuters; it’s a sleek, powerful grand tourer designed to deliver serious performance and head-turning style for drivers who prioritize thrills over saving at the pump. The S7 buyer wants a four-door coupe with serious presence, blistering acceleration, and the luxurious pedigree that comes with the Audi badge, and they’re willing to live with middling fuel economy to get it.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Audi S7’s 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 is its defining feature, and the EPA estimates of 17 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway reflect what this engine has to offer. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic will keep the turbochargers relatively dormant, meaning the engine is working harder to get the heavy S7 moving. Out on the open road, however, the engine’s power and the smooth-shifting seven-speed automatic transmission allow it to cruise comfortably and relatively efficiently at highway speeds. The S7 shines here, easily covering miles while providing passing power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Audi S7 will be $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Individual fuel costs will fluctuate depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often the driver unleashes the S7’s full potential. Premium fuel is expected to be used, and that total can add up.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy for the 2016 Audi S7 can vary based on driving style and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and sustained high speeds will lead to lower MPG figures. Gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and using the car’s coasting function can nudge the numbers closer to the EPA’s estimates.

Expect the combined MPG to fall somewhere between 18 and 24 MPG on average, with the city figure potentially dropping lower in congested areas.

How it compares

The 2016 Audi S7’s fuel economy places it in the middle of its class. The BMW 650i Gran Coupe, with its 4.4L V8, achieves around 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, making it slightly less efficient. The Mercedes-Benz CLS550, offering similar performance, is rated at 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. It can be helpful to view S7 MPG across all years to see where this model stands. Fuel economy isn’t the main concern for buyers in this category, but understanding the relative efficiency of each model can be a factor.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use Audi Drive Select modes strategically. In Comfort or Auto mode, the car will prioritize efficiency by using higher gears and less aggressive throttle response. Switch to Dynamic mode only when you want the S7’s performance. Doing so will save fuel and reduce wear and tear on the engine.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels indicated on the doorjamb sticker. These changes make a difference.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The S7’s engine consumes fuel even when stationary. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars restart quickly, making it a simple way to save fuel. Consider how often you are sitting still during a commute.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions waste fuel. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate changes in traffic conditions to minimize speed adjustments. All all Audi fuel economy data can be improved with consistent inputs.