The 2021 Audi A6 Allroad’s 22 MPG combined rating won’t break any fuel economy records, but it’s a reasonable number considering the Allroad’s strengths: a luxurious wagon capable in many conditions while offering strong performance. Allroad buyers prioritize style, comfort, and capability over Prius-like efficiency, accepting higher fuel costs for those attributes.

City and highway performance

EPA ratings for the A6 Allroad are 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects urban driving’s stop-and-go nature, not the Allroad’s ideal environment. Its turbocharger performs best with open roads, and its all-wheel-drive system excels outside of congested areas. The highway number better represents long trips, especially with cruise control, benefiting from tall gearing and the engine’s effortless mid-range acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates a $2,650 annual fuel cost for the 2021 Audi A6 Allroad. This assumes 15,000 miles driven per year and average national fuel prices. Actual fuel costs will change based on driving habits, driving type, and local gasoline prices. Driving aggressively will increase that $2,650 figure. Stop-and-go traffic can also raise costs. You can check all Audi fuel economy data to see how the A6 Allroad compares within the Audi lineup.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a helpful starting point, but real-world fuel economy varies. Some 2021 A6 Allroad owners report slightly lower numbers than the combined EPA rating, especially when frequently using the car’s “Dynamic” mode, which sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer. However, some drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive mostly on the highway have reported numbers that match or slightly exceed the EPA’s highway rating. Your mileage will vary. Consider searching A6 MPG across all years for owner reports.

How it compares

The A6 Allroad exists in a small niche, making direct comparisons difficult. The Volvo V90 Cross Country offers similar luxury and capability, achieving 25 MPG combined with its turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine. The Subaru Outback Wilderness offers similar off-pavement capability but lower fuel economy, rated at 22 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz E450 All-Terrain, a direct competitor, has similar fuel economy to the A6 Allroad, coming in at 23 MPG combined. This matters because Allroad buyers often consider these alternatives, weighing design, driving dynamics, and brand reputation along with fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid excessive idling. The A6 Allroad’s engine is relatively large and consumes fuel even when stationary. Minimize idling, especially on cold starts, to save gas. Modern engines warm up more efficiently while driving. The start/stop system works well, so leave it active.

Check tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the driver’s side doorjamb sticker. A quick check makes a real difference.

Use “Efficiency” mode when possible. The A6 Allroad offers driving modes that adjust engine and transmission settings. Select “Efficiency” mode when cruising on the highway or driving in low-demand situations. This mode optimizes fuel consumption by prioritizing smoother acceleration and earlier upshifts.

Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed. Avoid quick acceleration and braking. Predict traffic flow and keep a consistent speed to reduce fuel waste. Smooth, predictable driving improves fuel efficiency.