23 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but in the world of performance sedans, the 2020 Audi S4 occupies a sweet spot that makes this number perfectly acceptable, even expected. S4 buyers aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. They want an engaging driving experience with a potent engine, quattro all-wheel drive, and a luxurious interior. The S4 delivers all of that, and for many, the fuel consumption is a reasonable trade-off for the performance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Audi S4 at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go traffic, where the S4’s 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 is constantly accelerating and decelerating. The eight-speed automatic, while excellent in its responsiveness, cannot entirely mitigate the fuel demands of repeated bursts of power. However, on the open road, the S4 fares better.

The 27 MPG highway rating showcases the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, highlighting the benefits of turbocharging for optimized fuel delivery when not under heavy load. Note that aggressive driving, which is tempting in the S4, will significantly erode both city and highway figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Audi S4 at $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is only an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, premium is recommended for optimal performance, and local gas prices. If you primarily drive in congested city environments or have a heavy foot, expect to spend more.

It’s also important to factor in the cost of maintenance and insurance, which tend to be higher for performance-oriented vehicles like the S4. Before buying, consider the S4 MPG across all years to see if it’s consistent with your budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often deviates. Expect to see figures slightly below the EPA estimates, especially if you enjoy the S4’s spirited acceleration. Sustained highway driving at moderate speeds should allow you to achieve close to 27 MPG, but aggressive acceleration and high-speed cruising will reduce that number. City driving can easily dip below 20 MPG during rush hour.

Online forums and fuel tracking apps often showcase a range of user-submitted data, and it’s wise to consult these resources to get a more realistic understanding of what other S4 owners are experiencing. Remember that individual driving styles and environmental conditions play a significant role in determining actual fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the 2020 Audi S4’s fuel economy is fairly typical for its class. The BMW M340i, another popular choice, delivers around 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C43 sits in a similar range, at approximately 22 MPG combined. A Lexus IS 350 F Sport gets about 23 MPG combined, matching the S4, though the Lexus offers less performance.

For those considering alternatives within the Audi family, the A4 with the 45 TFSI engine achieves a notably higher 27 MPG combined. However, the A4 sacrifices the S4’s power and driving dynamics. The S4 buyer is weighing performance against efficiency. There are more fuel-efficient luxury sedans available, but none offer the same blend of performance and refinement for the price point of the S4.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The S4’s performance is addictive, but every hard launch and sudden stop consumes extra fuel. Practice smooth and progressive acceleration, anticipating traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. Using the S4’s drive select modes can help tailor the car’s responsiveness.

The “Comfort” or “Efficiency” modes can reduce throttle sensitivity and optimize shift points for better fuel economy. While the “Dynamic” mode is tempting, reserve it for situations where you truly want to exploit the car’s full potential.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Consider using the recommended premium fuel. While the S4 may run on regular gasoline, premium fuel is formulated to optimize performance and efficiency. Using premium fuel can help the engine run more smoothly and potentially improve fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo in the trunk or backseat adds weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need, and avoid carrying heavy loads unless absolutely necessary. Schedule regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Consider exploring all Audi fuel economy data and how vehicle maintenance plays a key role in maximizing mileage.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes unnecessary fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling. While these tips won’t transform the S4 into a Prius, they can help you squeeze a little more mileage out of each gallon of gasoline and help reduce your overall fuel costs.