22 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but for the 2022 Audi S6 2.9L 6-cyl, it’s a considered compromise. No one buys an S6 for its fuel efficiency; they buy it for its poised handling, rapid acceleration, and understated luxury. The MPG figure is simply a reality they acknowledge, balancing performance desires with practical considerations. This is a buyer who appreciates the duality of a performance sedan that can still comfortably handle a daily commute or a weekend road trip.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Audi S6 at 18 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s tendency to consume more fuel in stop-and-go traffic. The turbochargers spooling up to get you off the line contribute to the lower city rating. On the open road, however, the S6’s efficient engine management and the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission allow it to stretch a gallon of gasoline further, as reflected by the 28 MPG highway rating. These numbers are critical for buyers who spend considerable time in either environment, influencing their perception of the car’s overall running costs.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi S6 is $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This cost provides potential buyers with a benchmark to compare against other vehicles in its class and factor into their overall budget. It’s important to remember that this is just an estimate, and individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the specific blend of city and highway driving you undertake.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a valuable baseline, real-world fuel economy can often differ. Aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and extended idling can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Conversely, a conscious effort to drive smoothly, anticipate traffic flow, and maintain consistent speeds can yield MPG figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. Keep in mind that the S6’s performance-oriented nature can tempt drivers to push the car harder, potentially leading to lower-than-expected fuel economy. Owner forums show considerable variation based on driving styles, so check them for first-hand reports.

How it compares

The 2022 Audi S6 occupies a specific niche, balancing performance with luxury. Comparatively, the BMW M550i xDrive, with its 4.4-liter V8, delivers similar performance but typically achieves around 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG E53 sedan, with its hybrid-assisted inline-6, aims for a slightly more fuel-efficient profile, often reported around 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. The Acura TLX Type S, while offering a different driving experience, also competes in terms of price and performance, managing around 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. While browsing all Audi fuel economy data, remember that for many S6 buyers, the slight differences in MPG are less influential than the car’s overall driving dynamics and brand cachet. If you’re curious about S6 MPG across all years, it’s worth noting the subtle shifts in fuel-saving technology over time.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take it easy on the accelerator, especially when starting from a standstill. The S6’s turbochargers deliver impressive power, but they also consume extra fuel when spooled up aggressively. Smooth, gradual acceleration is key to maximizing efficiency in city driving.

Use the Audi Drive Select system to optimize your driving experience. Selecting the “Efficiency” mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel conservation. These adjustments reduce throttle response and upshift earlier, but the performance reduction is minimal in everyday driving.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or cabin adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, reducing fuel efficiency. A clean and light car is a more efficient car.

Plan your journeys to avoid peak traffic times. Stop-and-go traffic is a significant drain on fuel economy. If possible, adjust departure times to minimize idling and optimize for smoother traffic flow. This simple change saves fuel and reduces stress.