The 2021 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 3.0L achieves 22 MPG combined fuel economy. Buyers of this Q50 variant likely aren’t focused on efficiency, but still want to know what to expect. It’s not a Prius, but a sports sedan with a strong twin-turbo V6, designed for drivers who value performance and style more than ultimate fuel savings. The Red Sport buyer probably understands that enjoying that performance means more frequent trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Q50 Red Sport gets 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s behavior. The city MPG suggests that frequent stop-and-go driving will take a noticeable toll, especially if you’re tempted to tap into the engine’s readily available power. The highway MPG is more respectable, showing the car can achieve reasonable efficiency when cruising at a steady speed. How you drive really matters, as aggressive acceleration and high speeds will quickly decrease those numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive annually and what you pay for gasoline in your area. The $2,650 provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Q50 Red Sport’s fuel expenses to those of other vehicles. Remember that calculation assumes consistent driving habits and fuel prices. Erratic driving habits will directly impact fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a valuable comparison point, real-world fuel economy can vary quite a bit. Drivers who frequently drive hard or navigate congested city streets will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates. However, those who primarily drive on the highway at moderate speeds may achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, 26 MPG. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can also have an effect. The Q50 Red Sport’s fuel economy depends heavily on the driver and their driving environment. Looking at owner forums and independent fuel economy tracking websites can give you a better understanding of what to realistically expect.

How it compares

The Q50 Red Sport’s fuel economy places it among other sporty sedans. The BMW M340i, a key rival, gets around 26 MPG combined. The Audi S4, another contender, also reaches around 24 MPG combined. Looking at Q50 MPG across all years, the Red Sport consistently lands in a certain range due to its powerful engine. These differences, though seemingly small, add up over time. The Q50 Red Sport buyer is often willing to accept a slightly lower MPG rating for its distinct styling, powerful engine, and overall driving experience. See all Infiniti fuel economy data for further comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Q50 Red Sport isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are still practical steps drivers can take to improve fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The twin-turbo V6 is responsive and powerful, but using that power frequently will significantly reduce fuel efficiency. Gentle acceleration and anticipating stops can make a noticeable difference.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and keep it at the recommended level. Using high-quality, low-rolling-resistance tires can yield some gains as well.

Consider using the car’s drive mode selector. While “Sport” and “Sport+” modes enhance performance, they also result in increased fuel consumption. Choosing “Standard” or “Eco” mode can help restrain the engine’s output and improve fuel economy in daily driving.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or back seat adds weight to the vehicle, which again forces the engine to work harder. Removing any unnecessary items from the car can help improve fuel economy, even if only slightly.

Finally, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance can all contribute to optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Addressing any mechanical issues quickly can also prevent them from negatively impacting fuel economy down the road.