22 MPG combined is not going to win any awards, but that’s the fuel economy for the 2017 Audi A8 L 3.0T. That number reflects what you can expect from the long-wheelbase A8, equipped with its supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. This isn’t a car shopped by those obsessing over fuel costs; it’s a vehicle chosen by executives and clientele who prioritize space, comfort, and understated luxury. They accept the fuel economy trade-off for the experience the A8 L provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Audi A8 L 3.0T will achieve 19 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. While the city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, the highway number is more impressive. It highlights the efficiency of the eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at higher speeds. Audi designed this powertrain to deliver ample power while maintaining respectable fuel economy for a large, luxurious sedan.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Audi A8 L 3.0T is approximately $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, so the actual cost could be higher depending on local fuel prices and your driving habits.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and vehicle maintenance all play a role. Drivers with a heavier foot or those who frequently encounter rush hour traffic may see lower MPG figures, while those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the open road may come closer to the EPA’s targets.

How it compares

The 2017 Audi A8 L 3.0T occupies a competitive space. The BMW 740Li xDrive of the same year achieves a similar 22 MPG combined, while the Mercedes-Benz S550 4MATIC averages slightly better at 23 MPG combined. On the less-expensive side, the Lexus LS 460 comes in around 19 MPG combined. For the A8 L buyer, a single MPG may not be a deciding factor, but understanding how it stacks up against its rivals is essential. You can browse all Audi fuel economy data for a broader perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize your driving habits. The supercharged V6 delivers ample low-end torque, so avoid unnecessary hard acceleration. Gentle and progressive acceleration are key to maintaining good fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Regular maintenance is important. Keeping your A8 L properly maintained, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire inflation, ensures that the engine operates efficiently. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, contributing to better fuel economy. The A8’s systems benefit from timely upkeep.

Use cruise control whenever possible. On long highway drives, cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, reducing fuel consumption compared to constantly adjusting the throttle. This is particularly noticeable on relatively flat stretches of highway.

Minimize idling. Idling for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. Modern engine start-stop systems handle this automatically, but that’s not a feature of the 2017 A8. See A8 MPG across all years for other models with that feature.