22 MPG combined isn’t a highlight for the 2022 Audi A8 L quattro with its 3.0L six-cylinder engine. However, fuel efficiency is likely not the biggest concern for buyers of this extended-wheelbase luxury sedan. They likely want rear-seat legroom, a comfortable ride, and the prestige of the four rings because the A8 L excels in those areas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for the 2022 Audi A8 L quattro 3.0L. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the A8 L’s weight and the energy needed to repeatedly accelerate from a standstill affect mileage. On the open road, however, the A8 L performs better. Its smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at lower RPMs help highway mileage. The vehicle needs premium gasoline, as specified by Audi.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi A8 L quattro 3.0L is $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. The actual amount spent on fuel will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and annual mileage, but $2,650 gives a standardized baseline for comparison against other vehicles. Review all Audi fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving with frequent hard acceleration and braking will significantly decrease MPG. Driving at posted speed limits and adopting a smooth driving style can help drivers achieve, or even exceed, the EPA’s highway estimate. The A8 L’s quattro all-wheel-drive system provides better traction and stability, but it also adds weight and drivetrain loss that can negatively impact fuel economy.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the A8 L is competitive, though not class-leading. The BMW 740i achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC gets 24 MPG, and the Lexus LS 500 manages 25 combined. These differences, though seemingly small, result in savings over time. Of course, the A8 L presents its own appeal, especially in long-wheelbase form, so shoppers will often weigh those pros and cons, with fuel economy sometimes falling lower on the priority list. Compare A8 MPG across all years.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use the A8 L’s drive select modes. In “Efficiency” mode, the car will optimize settings including throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel conservation. It makes the accelerator pedal less sensitive and upshifts earlier, improving MPG during everyday driving.

Ensure tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressure regularly, referring to the label on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure.

Minimize idling. If stopped for more than a minute or two, shut off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, so idling wastes fuel unnecessarily, especially with the A8 L’s engine size.

Avoid unnecessary weight by removing any heavy items from the trunk that aren’t needed regularly. Extra weight strains the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Although the A8 L is already a substantial vehicle, every pound counts.