26 MPG combined won’t win any fuel-sipping contests, but for the 2021 Audi A4 allroad quattro, it’s a reasonable compromise. This isn’t primarily focused on fuel efficiency; it’s a lifestyle vehicle that prioritizes all-weather capability, cargo capacity, and a touch of luxury. Buyers understand this trade-off and accept it for the blend of practicality and premium features.

City and highway performance

The allroad’s 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides respectable performance in both city and highway environments. The EPA estimates 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. Stop-and-go urban driving tends to penalize the allroad slightly, as its turbocharger spools up frequently to maintain momentum. On the open road, the seven-speed automatic transmission (AM-S7) helps keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing fuel economy during steady-state cruising.

The A4 allroad has Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, which adds weight and drivetrain friction, decreasing fuel efficiency compared to front-wheel-drive alternatives. Aggressive acceleration will reduce figures, but a careful driver should consistently achieve the ratings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,250 for the 2021 Audi A4 allroad, based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Frequent short trips, extended idling, and aggressive driving increase fuel consumption. Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, which also can influence the annual expenditure.

Look at all Audi fuel economy data to see how the A4 allroad compares against other models.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. A driver who logs primarily highway miles, especially at consistent speeds, might see figures closer to or exceeding the 30 MPG estimate. Someone who primarily drives in congested city environments with frequent stops may struggle to consistently reach the 24 MPG city rating. Expect a range of 23-28 MPG in mixed driving conditions. The allroad’s all-wheel-drive system is beneficial for traction but impacts fuel economy.

Remember to check A4 MPG across all years to see how this model performs.

How it compares

The 2021 Audi A4 allroad’s fuel economy is respectable compared to other vehicles in its class, but not class-leading. The BMW 330i xDrive wagon, a direct competitor, achieves a similar 25 MPG combined. The Volvo V60 Cross Country posts an EPA rating of 25 MPG combined. In this segment of premium all-wheel-drive wagons, fuel economy isn’t a top priority.

Buyers focus on brand image, driving dynamics, cargo space, and all-weather capability over a few extra miles per gallon. The Subaru Outback Wilderness, a less luxurious but capable alternative, achieves only 22 MPG combined, emphasizing the trade-offs buyers make when prioritizing ruggedness.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The A4 allroad’s turbocharged engine responds well to smooth throttle inputs. Rapid acceleration makes the turbocharger work harder, consuming more fuel. Anticipate traffic conditions and avoid hard braking, which wastes energy.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side doorjamb. A few PSI below the recommended level impacts fuel efficiency.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the A4 allroad adds weight, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle, such as sporting equipment or tools. Reducing weight lightens the load on the engine and improves fuel efficiency.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway improves fuel economy by avoiding unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. Cruise control regulates speed and optimizes fuel consumption during long distance driving. Remain attentive and adjust your speed as needed for changing traffic conditions.

Consider the drive mode. The Audi Drive Select system offers various drive modes, including an “Efficiency” mode to optimize fuel economy. Experiment with this mode, especially during long highway drives, to see if it makes a difference in fuel consumption.