The 2021 Audi SQ7 4.0L 8-cyl gets 17 MPG combined, a vehicle that focuses on strong power and confident handling instead of fuel efficiency. It’s not a grocery-getter designed for efficiency; it’s a performance SUV with a luxurious interior and family-friendly design. Buyers who accept this number probably value its effortless power and distinctive look more than saving money on gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Audi SQ7 gets 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the impact of stop-and-go traffic, where the SQ7’s weight and powerful engine need more fuel to accelerate. The highway MPG figure is more achievable on the open road, especially when you use cruise control. However, aggressive driving or frequent passing will quickly lower that number. Understanding how you drive is important, and realizing that the EPA figures show an ideal scenario, not always a realistic one.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Audi SQ7 at $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway. The EPA also uses the national average fuel price for this estimate. Fuel prices change, and your actual mileage may be different. Expect to spend more on gasoline if you drive more aggressively or drive more than 15,000 miles per year. Residents of states with higher fuel taxes will also pay more than $3,400.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, the real-world fuel economy for the 2021 Audi SQ7 often falls slightly below these figures, especially for drivers who accelerate quickly. Owners report a range of 14-19 MPG in mixed driving. Cold weather and winter driving also reduce fuel economy. If you often use the SQ7’s launch control or explore its performance on back roads, you will need to refuel more often.

How it compares

The SQ7’s fuel economy is similar to other high-performance SUVs. The BMW X5 M50i, with its powerful V8, gets a similar 16 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, another competitor known for its performance, also reports a combined MPG in the mid-teens. The Porsche Cayenne S, while less powerful, offers a slightly better 19 MPG combined, but has less power than the SQ7. Buyers in this segment often compare vehicles based on performance and features, accepting a fuel economy trade-off. You can also compare SQ7 MPG across all years. For a broader perspective, see all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use smooth acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking. The SQ7’s powerful engine doesn’t need to be constantly pushed. Gentle throttle inputs will help save fuel and reduce wear and tear.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and check your tires at least once a month.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. The SQ7’s engine restarts easily and responds quickly so turn off the engine when you can.

Use cruise control on the highway when possible. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration, leading to improved fuel economy. Be mindful of traffic conditions and adjust your speed.

Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Extra weight increases fuel consumption, putting extra stress on the engine and contributing to lower MPG.