20 MPG combined won’t be the primary reason anyone chooses the 2022 Audi Q8 quattro with the 3.0L six-cylinder engine. For those who prioritize style, performance, and luxury in a two-row SUV, it’s a compromise to accept. This isn’t a fuel-sipping hybrid. It’s a vehicle offering impressive acceleration and all-weather confidence, designed for drivers who appreciate a spirited driving experience more than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Audi Q8 quattro are 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. While neither number is impressive on its own, they reflect the realities of a heavy vehicle with a powerful engine and standard all-wheel drive. The city MPG accounts for stop-and-go traffic where the Q8’s weight and the engine’s need to overcome inertia affect fuel consumption. The highway MPG reflects the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds, aided by the eight-speed automatic transmission; however, it’s still not designed for hypermiling.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi Q8 quattro is approximately $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and prevailing fuel prices. For those considering the Q8, this number reminds you that the cost extends beyond the initial purchase price.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates offer a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Q8 owners who frequently drive aggressively or spend time in congested city environments are likely to see figures below the EPA estimates. However, those who primarily drive on the highway and adopt a conservative driving style may find themselves closer to, or slightly above, the 23 MPG highway figure. Your mileage will vary, and the Q8 rewards a smooth, predictable driving style with increased efficiency.

How it compares

The Audi Q8’s fuel economy is in the middle of the pack of luxury SUVs. The BMW X5 xDrive40i, for example, achieves a slightly better 21 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC also boasts 23 MPG combined. These differences can add up over time, though buyers often prioritize other factors such as design, technology, and driving dynamics. For those particularly concerned about fuel efficiency, the Lexus RX 450h hybrid achieves a considerably better 30 MPG combined, but it offers a different driving experience and aesthetic that may not appeal to the Q8 buyer. If you want to see all Audi fuel economy data, it is available on FuelEconomyHub.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 3.0L turbocharged engine in the Q8 delivers ample power, but using it excessively will diminish fuel economy. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipatory braking can improve your MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and maintain it at the recommended level listed on the door jamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods burns fuel without moving the vehicle. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles like the Q8 are designed to restart quickly and efficiently.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration that can negatively impact fuel economy. This is especially beneficial on long highway journeys.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Remember to check Q8 MPG across all years as well.