The 2017 Lincoln Continental with the 2.7L turbocharged V6 and front-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined. Nobody buys a Continental primarily for its fuel efficiency. People purchase it for relaxed cruising, a quiet cabin, and the unmistakable presence that comes with a large, classically styled luxury sedan. This MPG figure is simply part of owning this type of car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates give a more detailed breakdown. In the city, the Continental 2.7L gets 18 MPG. This reflects stop-and-go driving, idling, and the engine working harder to move the car’s weight. On the highway, the number increases to 27 MPG. This improvement shows the engine settling into a more efficient cruise, helped by the smooth six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most modern transmission in terms of the number of gears, it’s well-suited to the engine’s power delivery and prioritizes smoothness over outright performance. The vehicle’s overall range results in comfortable long distance trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Lincoln Continental 2.7L FWD to be approximately $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and local gasoline prices. $2,100 offers a benchmark for understanding the financial commitment of fueling this model. The EPA method simulates a mix of city and highway driving to create an estimate for the average driver.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, heavy traffic, and hills can negatively impact your MPG. Consistent highway driving, however, will typically result in numbers closer to or slightly exceeding the EPA’s 27 MPG estimate. Owners often report a combined MPG figure that varies between 19 and 23 MPG, depending on driving conditions.

Remember that the Continental is not a lightweight car, and the turbocharged engine can be sensitive to how you use the accelerator pedal, so a lighter touch will improve your gas mileage.

How it compares

The 2017 Lincoln Continental 2.7L’s fuel economy is reasonably competitive, but not the best in its class. A comparable 2017 Cadillac CTS with the 2.0L turbo engine gets slightly better fuel economy, at 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz E300 gets about 25 MPG combined, while the Volvo S90 T5 boasts 26 MPG. These vehicles generally aim for fuel efficiency, while the Continental is for buyers seeking a more traditional luxury experience. For those wanting to explore all Lincoln fuel economy data, remember that they are often choosing comfort and styling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The 2.7L turbo engine delivers its power smoothly, and there’s no need to press hard on the accelerator. Gradual acceleration lets the engine operate more efficiently. Watch the boost gauge, and try to keep it out of the higher range unless you need maximum power. Avoiding hard acceleration will save gas.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control where possible helps minimize speed changes and improves fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking. These actions translate into fuel savings, especially on longer trips.

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure your Continental’s tires are properly inflated, and follow the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes and other services. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and burns less gas. See the owner’s manual for specific service advice on your 2017 Continental.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel and increases emissions. When possible, turn off the engine if you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two. Modern engines restart quickly, and the fuel savings can add up. Considering CONTINENTAL MPG across all years CONTINENTAL MPG across all years can be more consistent with these helpful tips.

Consider using the “Normal” or “Comfort” drive mode. Sport mode typically sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer, which reduces fuel economy. Staying in the more relaxed drive modes maximizes mileage without much performance loss for everyday driving. This can impactful on shorter drives.