The 2017 Infiniti Q50 with the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 gets 23 MPG combined. It’s not the best, but many Q50 buyers accept this as a tradeoff. They want the V6’s strong performance and smooth operation, accepting mid-pack fuel economy for a luxury sport sedan with a distinct character.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Q50 3.0L at 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is common for a turbocharged engine, since stop-and-go driving makes the engine go into boost more frequently, which hurts fuel economy. The highway number is where the Q50 performs best. At a steady cruise, the seven-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine efficient, allowing for relaxed long-distance drives considering the available power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Infiniti Q50 3.0L to be $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel expenses will depend on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the fuel prices where you live. Expect to spend more if your daily commute is stop-and-go, or if you drive aggressively. This also assumes regular fuel; premium fuel can increase the fuel cost too.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Q50 drivers who often use the engine’s 300 horsepower will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, even on mixed driving. But those who accelerate smoothly and maintain consistent highway speeds might exceed the EPA’s 29 MPG estimate. Hilly areas will lower your MPG too.

How it compares

The 2017 Q50’s fuel economy places it in the luxury sport sedan market. The BMW 330i, for example, gets 28 MPG combined with its four-cylinder turbo, making it more efficient, though some find its character less engaging. The Mercedes-Benz C300, another four-cylinder competitor, gets 27 MPG combined. Opting for the more powerful engines from these brands, such as the C43 AMG or the M340i, reduces fuel economy to the Q50 3.0T’s realm. All Audi fuel economy data positions the A4 2.0T similarly to the BMW and Mercedes with about 27 MPG combined. Buyers who value performance over saving gas probably won’t consider the small MPG differences between these V6-powered and high-output four-cylinder trims a deciding factor. It is important to look at Q50 MPG across all years to note changes each year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Be careful with the accelerator. The Q50’s twin-turbo V6 responds quickly, but aggressive acceleration uses fuel fast. Accelerate smoothly and gradually to keep the turbos from spooling up unnecessarily. You can also use the car’s “Eco” mode, which adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s specifications, which you can find on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Extra weight in the trunk or passenger compartment reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t regularly need to carry. Even small things add up and affect fuel efficiency of all Infiniti fuel economy data.

Maintain your car. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements.

Plan your trips. Combining errands into a single trip minimizes cold starts, which use more fuel. Avoid rush hour whenever possible to reduce idling and stop-and-go driving.