19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2019 Lincoln Continental Coach with its twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6, it’s an accepted reality of owning a sizable, handcrafted sedan. This particular Continental isn’t about maximizing efficiency; it’s about offering a supremely comfortable and luxurious experience, prioritizing space, elegant design, and effortless power in a way few modern cars do.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. Understand that city fuel economy will fluctuate wildly depending on the kind of city driving you do. Stop-and-go traffic will drag that 16 MPG figure down noticeably, while more open city driving might get you closer to the combined number. The 24 MPG highway rating is more achievable, as the Continental’s 6-speed automatic transmission and powerful engine allow for relaxed cruising at highway speeds. The engine doesn’t need to work hard to maintain momentum, which helps keep fuel consumption relatively stable on open roads. But again, a heavy foot will certainly bring down that number. Lincoln prioritized performance over maximum mileage here and buyers in this segment tend to agree with that choice.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,300 for the 2019 Lincoln Continental Coach 3.0L. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a blend of city and highway miles, and factors in the national average fuel prices at the time of estimation. Keep in mind that fuel prices fluctuate, so your actual costs may vary. This also assumes using the recommended fuel, which, for optimal performance with the twin-turbocharged V6, is premium gasoline.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Consider your driving style and typical routes. Frequent hard acceleration or extended idling will negatively impact your MPG. The Continental Coach’s ample power encourages spirited driving, making it easy to dip below the EPA estimates without realizing it. Owners report figures generally in line with the EPA’s numbers, but most acknowledge that prioritizing fuel efficiency is simply not the primary motivation for choosing this specific vehicle. They are buying a luxury experience focused on other attributes.

How it compares

When viewed against its competitors, the 2019 Lincoln Continental Coach’s fuel economy is what you might expect. A comparable 2019 Cadillac CT6 with its available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 is rated at 18 MPG combined, 15 city, and 25 highway. The larger Genesis G90, with its optional 5.0L V8, achieves only 19 MPG combined, highlighting the inherent trade-off between luxury, performance, and efficiency in this class of large sedans. Even the Lexus ES 350, while more efficient at roughly 26 MPG combined, caters to a different buyer seeking something more conservative than the powerful Continental. Buyers considering a Continental are prepared to accept its fuel consumption as a cost of enjoying its unique blend of American luxury, spaciousness, and potent performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is crucial. The Continental’s engine is responsive, but avoid aggressive starts and hard acceleration. The powerful twin-turbo V6 can quickly consume fuel when pushed hard. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed when possible to maximize MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Tire pressure affects rolling resistance, and underinflated tires can significantly reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions. While the Continental offers comfort features to make idling more palatable, reducing it as much as possible will add up over time.

Take advantage of cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing fuel consumption compared to fluctuating speeds. The Continental’s adaptive cruise control system further enhances efficiency by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a safe following distance.

Consider using a fuel additive. While not a necessity, some owners find that fuel additives designed to clean fuel injectors and improve combustion can help maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency, particularly in turbocharged engines like the Continental’s. Research reputable brands and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

For all all Lincoln fuel economy data, remember to consider your particular driving habits and the type of roads you typically use. You can also explore CONTINENTAL MPG across all years.