The 2021 Infiniti Q50 with the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine gets 23 MPG combined. This isn’t a Prius, nor is it a particularly efficient luxury sedan. However, for drivers who want a responsive engine and a rewarding driving experience more than excellent fuel economy, the Q50 V6 is worth considering. Those who like the Q50’s mix of performance and style often accept its fuel consumption as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Infiniti Q50 3.0L V6 will get 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure represents urban driving with its many stops and starts, where the engine idles and accelerates often, and the highway number shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at consistent speeds. Because there’s a 9 MPG difference between city and highway estimates, drivers who spend a lot of time on the open road will likely see the best fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Infiniti Q50 3.0L V6 is $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will change depending on driving habits and local fuel prices. Drivers who accelerate quickly or live in areas with higher fuel costs will probably spend more than $2,500 per year. However, this estimate is a useful point of comparison of the Q50’s operating costs with those of other vehicles in its class. Before making a final decision check Q50 MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a guideline, but actual fuel economy can vary. Rapid acceleration, frequent short trips, and even tire pressure can change fuel consumption. Q50 drivers who often use the car’s performance features, like sport mode or manual shifting, can expect numbers closer to the city estimate, or even lower. Conversely, those who accelerate smoothly and drive at consistent highway speeds may find they exceed the EPA’s 29 MPG highway figure. The Q50’s 7-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth, but it’s not the newest design, and newer 8, 9, or 10-speed gearboxes often improve fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The Q50’s fuel economy is in the middle of the pack for compact luxury sedans, but not in a great way. For example, the BMW 330i gets a combined 28 MPG from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Even the Acura TLX, with its standard 2.0L turbo four-cylinder, achieves a combined 25 MPG. The Mercedes-Benz C300 manages a combined 26 MPG. However, more powerful versions like the BMW M340i (26 MPG combined) have similar fuel consumption. The Q50 buyer might not be considering a Prius, but they probably know about the more efficient choices in this class. The Q50 customer might like its value or unique styling, while accepting the fuel economy trade-off. Consider taking a look at all Infiniti fuel economy data to see if there is a more economical model for you.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid fast acceleration. The Q50’s twin-turbo V6 responds quickly, but flooring the accelerator will use up fuel fast. Smooth, gradual acceleration lets the engine run more efficiently and keeps the turbos from constantly spinning up. Watch the traffic to keep from braking and accelerating unnecessarily, which saves fuel.

Keep proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your Q50’s door jamb for the recommended tire pressure and inflate your tires correctly. Checking tire pressure regularly is easy and can noticeably save fuel.

Don’t let the engine idle. Leaving the engine running while stopped, whether in a drive-through or waiting for someone, wastes fuel. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles restart quickly and reliably, so the engine doesn’t need to idle unnecessarily. The Q50 does not have engine start/stop, so turning off the engine is even more important in these cases.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control lets the Q50 keep a consistent speed, which minimizes changes in fuel consumption, and is particularly effective on flat highway stretches where the system can maintain a constant throttle position. This can noticeably improve fuel economy during longer drives.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance because a well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure all systems work optimally. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule can prevent small issues from becoming fuel-wasting problems.