22 MPG combined might not sound impressive, but for a 2018 Infiniti Q50 equipped with all-wheel drive and the potent 3.0L twin-turbo V6, it’s a specific blend of performance and acceptable running costs that appeals directly to its target customer. It’s a car bought for its sporting style and luxurious features first, with fuel efficiency further down the priority list.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 22 MPG rating into 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the turbochargers aren’t working efficiently and the engine spends more time idling. The highway number, however, showcases the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once it’s up to speed and the transmission is in its highest gear.

A long commute with minimal traffic will push you closer to that 27 MPG figure, while exclusively weaving through city streets will leave you hovering near 19 MPG. Intelligent driving habits, of course, can influence these figures in either direction.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Infiniti Q50 AWD 3.0L to be $2,650. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local gas prices, but this provides a standardized benchmark for comparison.

It’s a worthwhile number to consider within the context of the Q50’s luxury vehicle segment. Many competitors offer similarly powered vehicles with comparable, or even slightly higher, annual fuel costs, which makes this Q50’s efficiency a relative value.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful point of reference, expect real-world MPG to vary. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and using the Q50’s sport mode will all negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, using features like cruise control on the highway and adopting a smoother driving style can lead to better-than-expected results.

Consider also that all-wheel drive systems add weight and driveline friction, slightly reducing fuel economy compared to rear-wheel drive configurations of the same vehicle. A driver focused on maximizing efficiency, and who lives in a favorable environment for it, might see numbers closer to the EPA highway estimate, though matching the combined figure consistently requires mindful driving.

How it compares

Among its rivals, the 2018 Infiniti Q50 AWD 3.0L lands in the middle of the pack in terms of fuel economy. The BMW 340i xDrive, while offering similar performance, achieves a slightly better combined MPG of 25. The Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, despite its higher performance output, maintains a similar 22 MPG combined rating. The Audi S4, with its turbocharged V6 and quattro all-wheel drive, also returns around 24 MPG combined. These small differences matter less to the typical Q50 buyer, who prioritizes the car’s unique styling, technology, and available features over the absolute best fuel economy. For a broader understanding, you can review Q50 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Q50’s Drive Mode Selector. Selecting “Standard” or “Eco” mode will optimize the engine and transmission settings for fuel efficiency over outright performance. Remember that the Q50’s turbos deliver a punch of power when you demand it, but driving with a light foot will keep them from constantly spooling up, which burns extra fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it than to let it idle. Modern cars like the Q50 are designed to handle frequent starts and stops without causing excessive wear.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. The heavier the car, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to improve fuel economy, especially if you typically keep heavy items like sports gear or tools in the vehicle full-time.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. To see all Infiniti fuel economy data, check out our brand hub.