24 MPG combined is what you can expect for the 2023 Audi S5 Coupe, a reasonable trade-off for the performance and style. It’s not just a fuel-sipping commuter car, it's a statement piece, a blend of luxury and athleticism for drivers who prioritize driving pleasure and curb appeal but still appreciate decent efficiency from its turbocharged V6.

City and highway performance

The S5 Coupe's EPA ratings are 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating. The 30 MPG highway figure is more achievable on longer trips, thanks to the S5's well-tuned automatic transmission and aerodynamic design. The eight-speed automatic helps keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range when cruising, while the sleek coupe shape reduces drag and improves fuel economy at higher speeds. If you resist the urge to constantly use the S5’s power, the highway number will hold up. But if you accelerate frequently with the transmission in Sport mode, that 30 MPG figure will quickly drop.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Audi S5 Coupe at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is only an estimate. Your individual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Those who drive primarily in the city or have a heavier foot will likely exceed this estimate, while those who do mainly highway driving and adopt a more conservative driving style could see lower fuel costs. Premium fuel is recommended for the S5, which is included in the $2,400 cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. The S5 is a performance-oriented vehicle, and its drivers are likely to enjoy its spirited acceleration. This will impact fuel economy, especially in city driving. You can expect to see numbers closer to the EPA estimates if you prioritize efficiency and drive conservatively. However, if you frequently engage the car's sporty driving modes and enjoy its acceleration, your fuel economy will likely be lower. Factors like weather conditions, tire pressure, and the use of accessories like air conditioning can also influence fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the S5's fuel economy is competitive. The BMW 440i Coupe, with its similarly potent turbocharged inline-six, achieves roughly the same fuel economy, though some drivers report slightly better real-world numbers on the highway. The Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe, with its higher-output engine, typically gets a few fewer MPG, around 22 MPG combined. The Lexus RC 350, while not directly comparable in performance, offers similar fuel efficiency, indicating that this class of vehicle generally prioritizes performance and luxury over saving gas. For an overview of all Audi fuel economy data, resources are available. Also, for specific information on individual model years, check S5 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay close attention to tire pressure. Ensuring your tires are properly inflated reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended specifications, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual.

Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. By looking ahead and maintaining a consistent speed, you can minimize fuel consumption. Smooth inputs are key, especially with a turbocharged engine that responds readily to throttle changes.

Use the Audi Drive Select system wisely. The S5 offers different driving modes that optimize various vehicle settings, including engine response and transmission shift points. Selecting the "Efficiency" mode prioritizes fuel economy by adjusting these parameters to their most efficient settings. Use this mode during your commute if you want to save fuel.

Avoid extended idling. If you're stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. This is especially true in the S5, as a high-performance powerplant burns more fuel at idle.