The 2022 Audi S5 Cabriolet gets 23 MPG combined. This number indicates what’s important to buyers: the thrill of the boosted V6, the wind in their hair, and the envious glances from onlookers. The S5 Cabriolet is a statement piece, and that statement comes at a cost – both financially and at the pump.

City and highway performance

While 23 MPG is the combined figure, understanding the breakdown between city and highway is important. The S5 Cabriolet gets 21 MPG in the city. This isn’t particularly impressive, reflecting the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill. On the open road, however, the S5 Cabriolet fares better, achieving 28 MPG. This higher figure is due to the engine operating more efficiently at consistent speeds, taking advantage of the automatic transmission’s higher gears. A long road trip will yield better fuel economy than your daily commute.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi S5 Cabriolet at $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and fluctuating fuel prices. Someone who frequently uses the car’s strong power will likely spend considerably more than $2,500, while a driver with a lighter foot could see a slightly lower number. But $2,500 is a realistic benchmark for budgeting purposes.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips where the engine doesn’t reach optimal temperature, and even tire pressure can all impact your MPG. S5 Cabriolet owners who appreciate the car’s performance capabilities are likely to see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA’s range, especially in city driving. Those who prioritize efficiency and adopt a more relaxed driving style can potentially match or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway figure, but expecting significant deviations from the official numbers isn’t realistic.

How it compares

The S5 Cabriolet exists in a competitive segment. For comparison, the BMW 440i Convertible, another German performance droptop, achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet, a direct competitor, offers similar performance but its fuel economy also hovers around 22 MPG combined. Looking outside the German sphere, the Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible, with its V8 engine, delivers significantly lower fuel economy, typically around 18 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight the S5 Cabriolet’s position: it balances performance with relative efficiency, appealing to buyers who want a sporty driving experience without completely sacrificing fuel economy. You can find S5 MPG across all years on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Audi Drive Select system. Experiment with the different driving modes; the “Efficiency” mode optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel conservation. While it might dampen the car’s sporty feel, it can make a noticeable difference on longer trips. Consider using it during highway cruising when maximum performance isn’t necessary.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check them at least once a month or before a long drive. The slight inconvenience will pay dividends in increased gas mileage.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The S5 Cabriolet’s supercharged engine is tempting to use, but smooth, deliberate acceleration and gentle braking will significantly improve fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Every unnecessary burst of speed drains the fuel tank faster.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are surprisingly inefficient when idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, such as at a long traffic light, consider turning off the engine. Restarting consumes less fuel than prolonged idling. This habit is especially helpful in urban environments where idling time can accumulate quickly.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently. Ensure that you follow Audi’s recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance and reduced fuel economy. Check out all Audi fuel economy data here.