The 2020 Audi S6 2.9L 6-cyl gets 22 MPG combined, prioritizing power and driving engagement more than outright efficiency. It’s not a Prius competitor disguised as a luxury car, but a meticulously engineered Autobahn performer with a practical side. S6 buyers accept this fuel consumption as the cost of admission to a club of high-performance, understated luxury.

City and highway performance

The official EPA figures show 18 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the S6’s 2.9-liter turbocharged V6 engine is constantly working to overcome inertia. The highway figure shows the potential for efficiency at a steady cruise. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, allowing the engine to settle into a relaxed state at higher speeds. This means long road trips are possible without constant fuel stops, an important consideration for those who actually use their S6 for more than just urban commutes.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Audi S6 is $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using fuel prices that reflect the national average. Individual fuel expenses will fluctuate based on driving habits and local fuel costs, but this estimate provides a baseline for budgeting. This figure also assumes that drivers predominantly use premium fuel, as is recommended with this engine. Ignoring this may lead to reduced performance and potential engine damage, which no S6 owner wants.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing process, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably. Aggressive driving, frequent hard acceleration, and extended idling will all lower average MPG. Mindful driving, consistent speeds, and minimizing unnecessary weight in the vehicle can improve fuel economy. S6 owners should understand that the advertised MPG is a target, not a guarantee, and driving style is important in achieving it.

How it compares

The 2020 Audi S6’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors. The Mercedes-AMG E53 sedan posts a similar 21 MPG combined. The BMW M550i xDrive, which boasts even more power, also achieves around 20-22 MPG combined depending on the year. Even Lexus’s GS 350 F Sport, a traditionally more efficient offering, falls within a similar range. This illustrates that in this segment, performance is more important than maximizing fuel efficiency. Buyers seeking outright thriftiness will consider other, less performance-oriented options. You can view all Audi fuel economy data on our website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Monitor your driving habits. The S6’s Drive Select system allows you to choose different driving modes, including an “Efficiency” mode that optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel economy. Regularly engaging this mode, especially during commutes, can yield a tangible improvement in MPG. Experiment with the different drive modes to see if they improve your S6 MPG across all years.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a slightly underinflated tire can reduce your fuel economy noticeably.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more energy it requires to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any unnecessary cargo from the trunk and backseat, as every extra pound contributes to reduced fuel efficiency. Less weight equals less wasted fuel.

Avoid aggressive driving. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel than gradual, controlled inputs. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Smooth driving not only improves fuel economy but also enhances the overall driving experience.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and opting for routes with fewer stoplights can improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps to identify the most efficient routes, even if they are slightly longer in distance. Short, direct routes do not always provide better fuel efficiency.