The 2023 Audi A3 quattro 2.0L 4-cyl gets a combined fuel economy of 30 MPG. It’s not a super fuel-efficient car like a Prius, but it’s not a gas-guzzler either. It’s a compact luxury sedan that balances driving enjoyment, all-weather confidence with standard all-wheel drive, and reasonable running costs. Its fuel economy reflects this balance. This car is for drivers who value a premium experience in a smaller package, and they accept the fuel economy as part of what it offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Audi A3 quattro are 27 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure is respectable for an all-wheel-drive vehicle and shows the efficiency of its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Stop-and-go driving in cities usually hurts fuel consumption, but the A3 handles this well, partly because of its well-calibrated start/stop system and the smooth-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The A3 really shines on the highway. 35 MPG allows for comfortable and relatively economical long-distance trips. The quattro system adds a bit of drag, but the engine’s highway gearing keeps engine speed low, which helps its efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Audi A3 quattro 2.0L 4-cyl to be $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a good way to understand the ongoing cost of owning this car. Remember that individual fuel costs can change depending on driving habits, location, and current gas prices. Regular maintenance, like tire inflation and oil changes, can also change fuel efficiency and add to the actual cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy can be different. Drivers who accelerate quickly or often drive in traffic may get fuel economy closer to the city rating. Those who mostly drive on the highway and drive efficiently could see numbers better than the EPA’s 35 MPG estimate.

The A3’s driving mode selector lets drivers prioritize efficiency, which can change fuel consumption. Track your own fuel economy to get a better idea of your individual costs. The A3 gives real-time fuel economy information and trip data to help.

How it compares

The A3 quattro competes with other similar-sized luxury vehicles. For example, the BMW 228i xDrive offers a different driving experience but gets about the same fuel economy, 27 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz A220 4Matic gets slightly better numbers at 28 MPG combined. These differences aren’t huge, they influence the total cost of ownership.

A3 quattro buyers want the Audi’s design, interior quality, and the secure feeling of the quattro all-wheel-drive system, and are okay with a small trade-off in fuel economy. Check out A3 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Strategically use the Audi Drive Select system. When driving in easy conditions, choosing ‘Efficiency’ mode will set the engine and transmission for the best fuel economy. This might make the throttle less responsive and change shift points, but it can make a difference over time.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate tires to the levels listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This can improve your MPG and extend the life of your tires.

Avoid driving aggressively. Quick acceleration and hard braking use more gas. Accelerate smoothly and watch traffic to avoid unnecessary braking. The A3’s strong chassis and responsive engine can make you want to drive fast, but this will reduce fuel economy. Focus on keeping a steady speed and driving smoothly to be efficient.

Don’t let the car idle. Modern engines work well even in cold weather, so idling for a long time isn’t needed and wastes gas. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to save fuel. The A3’s start/stop system helps with idling fuel use in city driving, but avoiding idling in other situations will further improve your fuel economy.

Regular maintenance is important for good fuel efficiency. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A well-maintained engine works better, giving better fuel economy and less gas. Don’t forget to view all Audi fuel economy data.