21 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2016 Infiniti Q70 3.7L, a number that reflects the car’s purpose: a luxurious, stylish, and quick sedan that values the driving experience more than maximum efficiency. This isn’t a car for those obsessed with fuel economy. It’s a car for drivers who appreciate the smooth power of a naturally aspirated V6 and the unique style that makes it stand out from more common cars in its class. These buyers accept the fuel economy as a tradeoff for the Q70’s blend of performance and style.

City and highway performance

The Q70 3.7L’s EPA ratings are 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city number, while not terrible, shows the V6’s fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic and during frequent acceleration. The highway figure is better, suggesting that the Q70 is a comfortable and reasonably efficient car for long trips. But, getting that 25 MPG requires a controlled right foot and resisting the urge to use the engine’s power for passing. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth and responsive, isn’t tuned for maximum fuel efficiency; it prioritizes quick downshifts and keeping the engine at its best. This is a performance-oriented gearbox.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Infiniti Q70 3.7L at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average national gas prices. Your actual fuel costs may change depending on your driving, the roads you drive on, and gas prices in your area. Someone who drives mainly in city traffic will likely spend more, while someone who drives more on the highway may spend less. This is also an estimate based on regular gasoline, though some drivers may choose premium fuel in their Q70.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Q70 3.7L owners often report numbers that are close to the EPA estimates, but rarely much higher. Expect city MPG in the 16-20 range and highway MPG between 23-27, based on driving habits. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and constant high speeds will hurt fuel consumption. Gentle driving, anticipating traffic, and correct tire inflation can help maintain, or even slightly improve, the EPA’s numbers. To see Q70 MPG across all years, check our model page.

How it compares

In the mid-size luxury sedan class, the 2016 Q70 3.7L’s fuel economy isn’t as good as some competitors. For example, the Lexus GS 350, with its 3.5L V6, gets a slightly better combined MPG of 23. The BMW 535i (from 2016), with its turbocharged 3.0L inline-6, has a similar combined MPG to the Lexus, but also better performance. These vehicles have a different character than the Q70. The Infiniti has a unique exterior and interior design, along with a smooth V6, but other brands often have better MPG. A buyer choosing the Q70 knows that they are focusing on things other than maximum fuel efficiency. They may value the Q70’s unique styling and the feel of a naturally aspirated engine. Prospective Infiniti buyers should compare all Infiniti fuel economy data to find the right model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Q70 3.7L’s engine works best with smooth throttle inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and sudden bursts of speed, as these use more fuel. Keep a consistent speed and anticipate traffic to reduce hard braking and quick acceleration.

Make sure your tires have the correct pressure, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressures often, especially when the temperature changes.

The Q70’s 7-speed automatic transmission has a manual shift mode, which you can use to improve fuel economy. By upshifting sooner and downshifting later, you can keep the engine in its most efficient range. Be careful of the engine’s load and avoid running it in too high of a gear.

Remove extra weight in the car. Extra cargo increases the overall load, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that aren’t needed. The lighter the car, the less energy it needs to move.