22 MPG combined isn’t great, but many 2018 Infiniti QX60 AWD owners accept it. This SUV isn’t bought for ultimate efficiency; it’s a stylish, comfortable, and practical three-row SUV chosen for its luxury features, passenger space, and smooth driving. Fuel economy, while a consideration, often isn’t as important as these aspects for the QX60’s target buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Infiniti QX60 AWD are 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where the QX60’s 3.5L V6 engine and seven-speed automatic transmission work harder, with the extra weight and friction of all-wheel drive. The highway number is better, because the transmission uses a fuel-efficient cruising gear. Drivers should remember that getting 26 MPG requires consistent speeds and a gentle accelerator. Aggressive passing or high speeds will lower fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Infiniti QX60 AWD is $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual spending changes based on local fuel costs and driving habits. Hard acceleration, short trips, and idling will increase fuel use, possibly pushing the annual cost above the EPA estimate. $2,650 is an average, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a baseline, but real-world fuel economy for the 2018 QX60 AWD is often slightly below the numbers. Many owners report combined MPG in the 19-21 MPG range, close to the city estimate. This comes from driving style, road conditions, and tire pressure. The QX60 is heavy, and its all-wheel-drive system sends power to all four wheels, affecting efficiency. Owners who accelerate smoothly, watch traffic, and keep correct tire pressure will get numbers closer to the EPA estimates. See QX60 MPG across all years to compare this model year to others.

How it compares

The 2018 QX60’s fuel economy is average for three-row luxury SUVs. The Acura MDX SH-AWD has a similar 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway rating. The Lexus RX 350L AWD gets 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway, but its hybrid version, the RX 450hL AWD, does better, with 29 MPG combined. The Buick Enclave AWD has similar size and features, getting around 17 MPG city / 25 MPG highway. There are better options, but the QX60’s fuel economy matches many of its competitors in the all-wheel-drive, non-hybrid category. For data, explore all Infiniti fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration helps. The QX60’s V6 engine is powerful, but quick acceleration uses more fuel. Press the accelerator gradually to reach the speed you want, using less fuel. This is helpful in city driving.

Tire pressure is often missed but is important for fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder. Check your tire pressure often and keep it at the recommended level, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Consistent tire pressure will improve fuel economy and extend tire life.

Reduce idling. The QX60 uses fuel when it’s running but not moving. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles start quickly, and reducing idling can save fuel. This is relevant when waiting in parking lots.

Watch traffic. Keeping a steady speed is more fuel-efficient than accelerating and braking. Watch traffic and leave space between you and the car in front. This lets you see slowdowns and avoid braking, saving momentum and fuel. Using cruise control on the highway also helps with consistent speed and efficiency.