23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, and it certainly isn’t the main reason someone buys a 2018 Audi Q3 with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. This compact luxury crossover is chosen for its premium interior, manageable size, and the Audi brand’s reputation. Fuel economy is simply a secondary consideration for buyers who prioritize style and a comfortable driving experience over maximum efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Audi Q3 break down to 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving and idling, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine uses more fuel. The highway number is better, benefiting from the automatic (S6) transmission efficiently managing engine speeds at cruising speed. These figures are based on standardized testing; your individual results will vary depending on driving style and conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi Q3 to be $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark, but understand that variations in your annual mileage, local fuel prices, and the grade of fuel you choose (premium is recommended for optimal performance) can significantly impact your actual spending. The average cost of fuel varies from state to state and month to month, so factor that in.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized measure, many say that achieving the official numbers in real-world situations can be hard. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and constant use of air conditioning will all reduce fuel economy. With careful driving and favorable conditions, some drivers might get close to the 28 MPG highway figure on longer trips. Expect somewhere in the low to mid-20s for combined MPG.

How it compares

The 2018 Q3’s fuel economy is in the middle of similar vehicles. A BMW X1, for example, achieves a combined 25 MPG with its 2.0-liter turbo engine, making it slightly more efficient. A Mercedes-Benz GLA250 earns about 26 MPG combined, offering similar refinement with better fuel efficiency. The Lexus NX 300h hybrid gets an impressive 31 MPG combined, appealing to buyers who prioritize fuel savings and are willing to pay more for the hybrid powertrain. Buyers who want the Audi brand and styling might find the slightly lower Q3 MPG an acceptable trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Q3’s turbocharged engine responds quickly to throttle inputs, but excessive use of this power reduces fuel economy. Smooth driving keeps the engine working efficiently, extending the range between fill-ups.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running, but idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine to conserve fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This leads to more consistent fuel consumption, helping you achieve better highway MPG.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements ensure that your Q3 is operating at its peak performance, maximizing fuel economy. You can view all Audi fuel economy data on our website, or dig into Q3 MPG across all years to understand the trends.

These suggestions won’t transform the Q3 into a fuel-sipping hybrid, but implementing them will maximize the miles you get per gallon.