24 MPG combined is reasonable for the 2023 Audi S4. This isn’t a hybrid; it’s a performance sedan with a turbocharged V6, all-wheel drive, and a chassis tuned for backroad thrills. S4 buyers prioritize driving enjoyment, styling, and premium features. Fuel economy is a consideration, but less so than acceleration and handling.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 S4 at 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the S4’s weight and the fuel demands of its turbocharged engine in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number shows the efficiency possible with the eight-speed automatic transmission and relaxed cruising speeds. The S4’s torque also helps, allowing it to maintain speed with minimal effort. Enthusiastic driving will lower these numbers, but they provide a baseline for typical usage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that fueling the 2023 Audi S4 will cost $2,400 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using national averages for premium unleaded fuel prices. Fuel prices change, so your actual costs may vary. This is an EPA estimate; your driving style impacts the real-world figure. Still, the $2,400 figure is a benchmark for comparing the S4’s running costs to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a baseline; real-world fuel economy often differs. Some S4 owners report figures close to the EPA’s, while others find themselves slightly below, especially with frequent use of the car’s performance. Using the “Efficiency” drive mode can help, but it also reduces the car’s responsiveness. Drivers who prioritize spirited driving will see lower fuel economy than those who drive conservatively. If you are interested in all Audi fuel economy data, including the S4 MPG across all years, you can easily view it.

How it compares

The Audi S4 faces rivals like the BMW M340i and Mercedes-AMG C43. The BMW M340i, rated at 26 MPG combined, often achieves better real-world fuel economy than the S4, thanks to its efficient inline-six engine. The Mercedes-AMG C43, also with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, has similar fuel economy to the S4, around 22 MPG combined, depending upon model year. For S4 buyers, saving money isn’t the only concern. It’s about balancing performance, luxury, and fuel efficiency. The BMW’s fuel economy might be worth its driving dynamics, while others might prefer the Audi’s interior even at a slight fuel cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. The “Efficiency” mode recalibrates the engine and transmission for fuel consumption. While it does reduce throttle response, it’s good for highway cruising or congested city streets.

Proper tire inflation is important. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder. Check your tire pressures and keep them at the recommended levels, typically on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual.

Avoid aggressive driving. Rapid acceleration and hard braking hurt fuel economy. Smooth inputs are key. Anticipate traffic and maintain a consistent speed when possible.

Reduce weight. Extra weight makes the engine work harder. Remove items you don’t need to improve fuel economy.

Consider cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes fuel consumption, resulting in better efficiency. Disengage cruise control in heavy traffic or bad weather.