77 MPG combined represents its electric equivalent, not gasoline consumption, making the 2021 Audi e-tron Sportback a standout in the growing segment of electric SUVs. It’s a stylish, performance-oriented EV for buyers who prioritize design and the Audi driving experience over maximum range or low pricing. These owners are often urban or suburban dwellers who value the lower fuel costs of electric driving, but also want a luxury vehicle with a sporty edge and SUV practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the e-tron Sportback achieves 76 MPG in the city and 78 MPG on the highway. This slight advantage on the open road may seem odd for an EV, but it reflects the efficiency of regenerative braking in stop-and-go city driving versus the constant energy draw needed to maintain higher speeds on the highway. The e-tron Sportback’s aerodynamic design, with its sloping roofline, likely helps its strong highway MPG. However, these are estimates. Your real-world mileage will vary depending on driving style, weather, and climate control use.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Audi e-tron Sportback to be $1,000. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average electricity price at the time of testing. Many factors will affect how closely owners match the 15,000 driven miles, and if owners charge primarily off-peak, the savings could be even higher. It is a helpful benchmark for comparing the e-tron Sportback with other vehicles and examining all Audi fuel economy data.

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world range and efficiency often differ. Factors like aggressive acceleration, frequent use of the air conditioning, and cold weather can significantly reduce the e-tron Sportback’s range. Some owners report achieving slightly lower than the official MPGe figures, particularly on extended highway journeys. Consider that the e-tron Sportback is not as focused on maximizing range as something like a Tesla Model 3, and always check the E TRON MPG across all years to understand performance.

How it compares

Competitors in the electric SUV space offer varying degrees of efficiency. For example, the Tesla Model X Long Range boasts a significantly higher EPA-estimated 102 MPGe combined. Keep in mind that owners generally buy Teslas for the range advantage. A more direct competitor, the Jaguar I-Pace, achieves a combined 76 MPGe. The BMW iX offers slightly better efficiency at 86 MPGe combined. These comparisons are important because while the e-tron Sportback’s 77 MPGe is respectable, it’s not best-in-class. Buyers drawn to the Audi prioritize its interior design, build quality, and traditional luxury feel, factors that often outweigh a few MPGe points on a spec sheet.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to stretch your e-tron Sportback’s range is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The regenerative braking system is efficient, but anticipating stops and coasting whenever possible will recapture even more energy and extend your range.

Take advantage of the e-tron Sportback’s drive mode selector. The “Efficiency” mode optimizes vehicle systems to minimize energy consumption. It can slightly dull throttle response and limit top speed, but these tradeoffs can add valuable miles to your range, especially on longer trips.

Precondition the cabin while the vehicle is plugged in. Heating or cooling the interior while connected to the charger reduces the energy demand on the battery once you start driving. You can set a departure time in the MMI system, and the e-tron Sportback will automatically pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin to your desired temperature.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which improves efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level (found on the driver’s side doorjamb). Be aware that cold weather can significantly lower tire pressure, so adjust accordingly.

Minimize auxiliary power usage. Running the air conditioning, especially at high settings, can significantly impact range. Use the seat heaters instead of blasting the cabin heat. Try to only use features you need and limit the usage of those you don’t.