Owners of the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 3.0L experience around 22 MPG combined with its twin-turbo V6 and seven-speed automatic transmission. It’s not a Prius, and most drivers buying a stylish, powerful sport sedan don’t expect hybrid-like efficiency. Consider this MPG figure in light of the performance, luxury, and driving experience the Q50 delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Q50 Red Sport 3.0T achieves 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These numbers are not particularly inspiring, but aren’t unusual for vehicles with similar performance and luxury. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirstiness in stop-and-go conditions, and the highway figure acknowledges the benefits of the automatic transmission’s overdrive gears. Aggressive driving, common with the Red Sport, will lower these numbers. Commuters frequently stuck in traffic can expect MPG figures closer to the lower end.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 3.0T at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance from the twin-turbo V6. As fuel prices change, so will the annual cost. Drivers who exceed 15,000 miles annually will see a higher fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often varies. The Q50 Red Sport’s twin-turbo V6 is responsive and encourages spirited driving, making it easy to dip below the official estimates. Drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive conservatively can likely meet or exceed the EPA numbers, especially on long highway journeys. The engine’s power is always tempting, though. How you drive will impact your fuel costs.

How it compares

The Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 3.0T is in a competitive segment. Comparing it to rivals shows its fuel efficiency. The BMW 340i, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves around 25 MPG combined, a bit better than the Q50. The Audi S4, also with a turbocharged V6, gets a similar combined MPG in the mid-20s. The Mercedes-AMG C43, another competitor, is similar, offering nearly identical combined fuel economy to the Q50 Red Sport. Owners might choose the Q50 for its styling, overall value, and unique engine. Always compare all Infiniti fuel economy data to its competitors when shopping.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Q50 Red Sport isn’t designed to be very fuel efficient, but owners can improve efficiency. Regular maintenance, like keeping tires properly inflated, is always important. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces fuel economy, and it hurts handling.

Use the drive mode selector. Selecting “Standard” or “Eco” mode will change the engine mapping and throttle response. These modes might reduce the car’s sporty feel, but they can improve fuel economy, especially in city driving. Save the “Sport” or “Sport+” modes for when you want full performance.

Avoid hard acceleration and hard braking. The twin-turbo V6 responds well to smooth throttle inputs. Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed when possible. Aggressive driving consumes more fuel and wears out the brakes and tires.

Minimize use of accessories such as air conditioning. While it’s tempting to blast the AC on hot days, it puts extra strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Use the air conditioning carefully, and when possible, recirculate cabin air or open the windows (at lower speeds).

Consult the Q50 MPG across all years to see how other model years compare.