While 23 MPG combined won’t make the 2020 Infiniti Q50 3.0t a fuel economy champion, that’s not the primary appeal. This isn’t a Prius. Buyers choose the Q50 for its style, performance, and value within the entry-level luxury sedan market. They’re generally okay with average fuel economy in return for the powerful twin-turbo V6 and distinctive styling that sets it apart from more conservatively designed rivals.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Infiniti Q50 3.0t are 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects how much fuel is used with frequent stops, starts, and idling. The highway number is better, due to consistent speeds and the engine running more efficiently. The seven-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, isn’t the most modern and probably plays a role in the slightly lower fuel economy. More gears often allow for finer engine speed control, which optimizes efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Infiniti Q50 3.0t at $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, actual fuel costs will depend on how you drive, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Though the Q50 3.0t doesn’t require premium fuel, using it might slightly improve performance and potentially give a small bump in fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy can vary quite a bit. Drivers who accelerate quickly, take frequent short trips, or mostly drive in the city will likely see MPG below the EPA estimates. On the other hand, drivers who accelerate gently, maintain consistent highway speeds, and properly maintain their car may get numbers close to or even a bit better than the EPA ratings. The Q50’s driving mode selector, with “Standard,” “Eco,” “Sport,” and “Personal” settings, can change how much fuel you use. Eco mode boosts fuel efficiency by changing how the throttle responds and when the transmission shifts, while Sport mode focuses on performance. See all Infiniti fuel economy data here.

How it compares

The 2020 Infiniti Q50 3.0t has lots of competition in the entry-level luxury sedan segment. Looking at its fuel economy compared to competitors gives helpful perspective. For example, the BMW 330i gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is better than the Q50. The Mercedes-Benz C 300, another popular choice, also gets a slightly better 25 MPG combined. But these models don’t have the same horsepower and torque as the Q50’s V6 unless you move to higher, more expensive trim levels. The Acura TLX, especially with the V6 engine, has similar fuel economy to the Q50, making it a closer match in performance and efficiency. You can find data from across all model years at Q50 MPG.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration and braking can increase fuel economy. Avoid fast starts and stops, as they use a lot of fuel. Predict traffic and keep a steady speed when possible.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tires often and inflate them to the pressure listed in the owner’s manual or on the door jamb sticker.

Remove extra weight from the car. Carrying unnecessary items adds additional load, decreasing fuel mileage. Remove any unneeded items from the trunk and backseat to reduce weight.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks, is important for engine performance and fuel efficiency. A well-maintained engine runs better and uses less fuel.

Use the Q50’s driving mode selector wisely. When you want to save fuel, choose “Eco” mode. This adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize efficiency. When you want more performance, switch back to “Standard” or “Sport” mode.