23 MPG combined is what you get with the 2018 Audi A7 quattro, a stylish and capable sportback that’s geared toward a specific type of buyer. This isn’t a family SUV trying to maximize fuel efficiency for the school run. It’s a statement car, a comfortable and engaging grand tourer favored by executives and drivers who value design, technology, and a refined driving experience more than saving money on gas.

City and highway performance

The A7’s EPA estimates are 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects typical stop-and-go driving, where the A7’s 3.0L supercharged V6 engine works harder. The eight-speed automatic transmission, while smooth and responsive, can’t eliminate the fuel consumption in urban environments. However, the highway MPG is more encouraging. At cruising speeds, the A7 is more efficient because of its well-engineered powertrain and aerodynamic design. The quattro all-wheel-drive system adds weight, but it ensures secure traction in various weather conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2018 Audi A7 quattro will cost $2,500 per year in fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price during testing. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and changes in gasoline prices. It provides a useful benchmark for budgeting and comparing the A7’s fuel costs to other vehicles. Drivers who drive fewer highway miles than estimated or drive more aggressively will likely spend more than $2,500.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who accelerate quickly, frequently use Sport mode, or drive in heavy traffic will likely see numbers closer to the city estimate, or even lower. On the other hand, drivers who accelerate smoothly, anticipate traffic, and spend more time on the open road can expect to approach or exceed the 29 MPG highway figure. Getting good fuel economy in the A7 requires effort and a mindful driving style.

How it compares

The 2018 Audi A7 competes with other luxury sportbacks and sedans. The BMW 540i xDrive, for example, with its 3.0L turbocharged inline-six, gets an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined, the same as the A7. The Mercedes-Benz CLS450 also gets around 23 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera offers many models and powertrains, and its more powerful trims generally have lower fuel economy, but base configurations achieve similar numbers. Choosing the right trim to match your driving needs is important. Fuel economy is often similar in this category, so shoppers often focus on design, features, and brand. You can compare A7 MPG across all years to see any MPG changes in other model years or view all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. Switch to Comfort or Efficiency mode when cruising or on less demanding roads, even if you like Dynamic mode’s responsiveness. These modes change throttle response, transmission mapping, and other settings to save fuel.

Check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. See the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your A7.

Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking. The supercharged V6 is tempting, but moderate inputs will conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic and maintain a smooth pace.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles like the A7 restart quickly, so idling wastes fuel.

Reduce weight. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, as extra weight reduces fuel economy, especially heavy items in the trunk.