22 MPG combined isn’t the best in the luxury compact SUV class, but that’s what the 2019 Audi Q3 quattro delivers with its 2.0L turbocharged engine. It’s important to be realistic: Q3 buyers are usually looking for more than just good gas mileage. They want German engineering, stylish design, all-weather capability, and a size that works well in cities. Fuel economy matters, but it’s often less important than these other things.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Q3 quattro gets 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects how much fuel the engine uses when you’re stopping and going and driving at slower speeds. The turbocharger has to work harder, which uses more gas. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) tries to keep the engine running efficiently, but it’s working against the challenges of city driving. On the highway, the Q3 cruises more easily, so the engine runs more efficiently, achieving that 27 MPG highway rating. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides better traction in bad weather, but it also adds weight, which slightly increases the difference between the city and highway MPG numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the average 2019 Audi Q3 quattro owner will spend $2,000 per year on fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using current average gas prices. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will change depending on how you drive, the type of fuel you buy, and gas prices in your area. Driving aggressively, idling too much, and using premium fuel when regular is good enough will all increase how much you spend on gas each year.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard estimate, but real-world gas mileage often varies. Some Q3 owners say they get slightly less than the EPA’s 22 MPG combined rating, especially if they drive mostly in cities with heavy traffic. Others, who commute longer distances and drive more on the highway, are able to match or even slightly beat the EPA’s highway number. How you drive makes a big difference. Someone with a heavy foot will get worse mileage than someone who accelerates gently and maintains consistent speeds. Features like air conditioning and extra weight from passengers and cargo also affect fuel consumption. Consider the EPA estimates a starting point and adjust your expectations based on your driving.

How it compares

The 2019 Audi Q3 quattro 2.0L’s fuel economy is about average for its class. The BMW X1 xDrive28i, for example, gets slightly better gas mileage at 26 MPG combined, while the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4MATIC gets the same 22 MPG combined as the Q3. The Lexus NX 300h, which is a hybrid, gets much better fuel economy at 31 MPG combined, but it drives differently. The best choice depends on what you’re looking for. If you only care about gas mileage, the Lexus might be the way to go. If you want a more fun driving experience, the Q3’s slightly lower fuel economy compared to the BMW might not matter as much.

Review all Audi fuel economy data to see how the Q3 compares to other models in the brand’s lineup. You can also review Q3 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, because these make the engine work harder and use more fuel. Gentle acceleration lets the turbocharger work more efficiently and wastes less gas. Pay attention to traffic and maintain a consistent speed to improve fuel economy.

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. You can usually find this on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes.

Don’t idle unnecessarily. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. This is especially important in cities where you’re often stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic.

Reduce extra weight. Extra cargo puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove anything from the trunk or backseat that you don’t really need. Every extra pound reduces efficiency.

Get your 2019 Q3 serviced regularly, following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and helps you get the best possible gas mileage.