21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the reality for the 2020 Lincoln Continental with the 2.7L V6, a car that prioritizes a smooth and effortless driving experience over outright fuel efficiency. Understanding this number is key to understanding the Continental’s appeal. This isn’t a car designed for hypermilers; it’s a comfortable, well-appointed sedan aimed at buyers who crave a refined ride and don’t mind paying a bit more at the pump for it. The Continental buyer appreciates the quiet competence of a torquey six-cylinder and likely isn’t cross-shopping with hybrid alternatives.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates peg the Continental at 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, showing that the Continental’s weight and focus on relaxed power delivery have an effect. However, the highway number is far more respectable. The relatively long sixth gear in the automatic transmission allows the engine to settle into a comfortable cruise, reducing fuel consumption. Long-distance highway trips are where the Continental shines, both in terms of comfort and fuel economy, making it a solid choice for those who regularly cover significant ground.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Lincoln Continental 2.7L FWD at exactly $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a fuel price that represents a national average. Keep in mind that you will likely have a different result; for example, someone who covers significantly more than 15,000 miles annually will naturally incur higher fuel costs. Also, gasoline prices fluctuate regionally and over time, so your actual spending may vary significantly from the EPA estimate. This $2,100 figure serves as a standardized benchmark for comparison, assuming consistent driving habits and fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a guide, real-world fuel economy often differs based on individual driving habits and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistently high speeds will negatively impact fuel efficiency. Expect the Continental to deliver closer to the EPA figures with a smooth driving style, minimal idling, and regular highway use. City driving will likely result in numbers closer to 16-17 MPG, while careful highway cruising could potentially push you beyond the 27 MPG estimate. Terrain and weather conditions can also affect fuel economy, with hilly areas and strong headwinds reducing efficiency.

How it compares

When considering the luxury sedan segment, the Continental’s fuel economy is neither best nor worst in class. For instance, the front-wheel-drive Cadillac CT5 with its 2.0L Turbo engine achieves a combined 26 MPG, presenting a more fuel-efficient option. The CONTINENTAL MPG across all years reflects that Lincoln has been consistently targeting comfort and power, making small efficiency improvements secondary. However, a comparable Genesis G80 with its base 2.5L Turbo engine achieves a combined 25 MPG. All Lincoln fuel economy data shows consistent trade-offs between performance and efficiency. The Continental 2.7L prioritizes engine smoothness and refinement, while some competitors make fuel economy a higher priority. The Volvo S90 T5 FWD also shines here with 26 MPG combined; however, it’s a very different character of vehicle. The decision depends on whether the buyer values the Continental’s specific blend of attributes, accepting the slightly lower fuel economy as a trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Continental’s 2.7L V6 is responsive, so avoid aggressive acceleration, particularly from a standstill. Smooth, gradual increases in speed will minimize fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking, allowing the car to coast when possible. This reduces the need for hard acceleration to regain lost speed.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy by a measurable margin. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.

Minimize idling time. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary, so avoid unnecessary idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine. Similarly, reduce accessory use, such as air conditioning, when not strictly required.

Maintain your Continental according to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure the engine is running optimally. A well-maintained engine will operate more efficiently and deliver better fuel economy.