The 2021 Audi S5 3.0L 6-cyl gets 23 MPG combined, a reality most buyers accept as the price for the car’s perks. Buyers don’t choose this car for hyper-miling. They choose it for its blend of understated luxury, brisk performance, and all-weather confidence thanks to standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Potential owners prioritize effortless overtaking ability on the highway and sure-footedness in bad weather over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates peg the S5 at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go conditions most drivers encounter daily, where the S5’s turbocharger can lag slightly before delivering its full thrust. The highway figure is more appealing and where the car performs best. The eight-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at relatively low RPMs, contributing to better fuel economy and a relaxed driving experience on longer journeys. However, a heavy foot will quickly diminish these numbers as the turbocharger spools up to provide passing power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Audi S5 at $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this number is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and fluctuations in fuel prices. Someone who primarily drives in stop-and-go city traffic and often accelerates hard will likely see higher fuel bills than someone who primarily uses the car for highway commuting at moderate speeds.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a baseline, the reality for most S5 owners will likely fall slightly short of the official figures. Spirited driving, common in a performance car, will quickly reduce fuel economy. Factors like weather conditions, tire pressure, and the overall health of the vehicle can also influence fuel consumption. Expect to see numbers closer to the low-20s in mixed driving, especially if you frequently accelerate quickly. However, careful driving on long highway stretches should allow you to approach, or even slightly exceed, the EPA’s 28 MPG estimate. You can review S5 MPG across all years to gain further perspective.

How it compares

The Audi S5 is in a competitive space where fuel economy is a secondary consideration but still relevant compared to its rivals. The BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe, a direct competitor, achieves an EPA-rated 25 MPG combined. This is a slight edge over the S5, potentially swaying drivers prioritizing fuel savings. The Mercedes-AMG C43 sedan, another contender, posts an EPA-rated 22 MPG combined, a comparable figure to the S5. Choosing between these vehicles involves weighing performance, luxury, and fuel economy according to individual preferences. The Acura TLX Type S, while offering similar performance and a more aggressive design, achieves approximately 21 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight that while not class-leading, the S5’s fuel economy isn’t significantly out of line with its closest competitors, so it’s a reasonable trade-off for its overall attributes. Owners concerned with fuel efficiency may want to review all Audi fuel economy data for alternative models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Using the Audi Drive Select system can help you save fuel. Selecting the “Efficiency” mode will adjust the engine and transmission settings to optimize fuel consumption. In this mode, the throttle response is softened, and the transmission shifts earlier, keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range.

Regularly check your tire pressures. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and ensure your tires are properly inflated at least once a month.

Anticipate traffic flow. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking significantly decrease fuel economy. By anticipating traffic patterns and maintaining a steady speed, you can minimize unnecessary fuel consumption and drive more smoothly.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk that you don’t need regularly. Even small amounts of weight can add up to a noticeable difference over time.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow Audi’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other essential services to ensure your S5 is performing at its best.