22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it captures the character of the 2023 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport AWD: a driver-focused sport sedan that values exhilaration over ultimate efficiency. This is a car for those who value the punch of a twin-turbo V6 and the confidence of all-wheel drive more than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. Buyers in the market for a Q50 Red Sport know what they’re getting into, and they’re willing to accept the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway reveal the Q50 Red Sport’s fuel consumption. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating. The highway number shows that the engine is relatively efficient when cruising at a steady speed.

Ultimately, the gap between city and highway MPG suggests a significant dependence on driving style, which will influence your MPG more than with some other cars.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport AWD is estimated at $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s projected national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Of course, the actual fuel cost will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel costs, and the type of fuel used. While many owners will use premium fuel for optimal performance, using a mid-grade fuel at a lower price can reduce your spend.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, remember that real-world fuel economy can vary considerably. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and heavy traffic can all negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper maintenance can help you achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates, or even slightly better at times. The Q50 Red Sport tempts you to use the available power, which impacts your MPG.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2023 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport’s fuel economy lands roughly in the middle of the pack. For example, the BMW M340i xDrive achieves a combined 25 MPG, offering better performance and fuel economy, but at a higher price point. The Lexus IS 350 AWD offers a slightly lower 22 MPG combined with a less powerful engine. The Genesis G70 3.3T AWD delivers comparable performance and fuel economy, with 20 MPG combined. Buyers accept the Q50’s 22 MPG because of its unique styling and blend of luxury and power, but those prioritizing fuel efficiency might explore other options. You can also check Q50 MPG across all years to understand long-term trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize your tire pressure. Ensuring your tires are properly inflated reduces rolling resistance, which can improve fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, as indicated on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This is especially important given that many Q50 Red Sports are equipped with low-profile tires, which lose pressure more quickly.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Q50 Red Sport’s twin-turbo V6 encourages enthusiastic driving, but try to resist the urge to floor the accelerator at every opportunity. Gradual acceleration and smooth braking will help to conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a safe following distance to minimize the need for sudden stops.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel efficiency on long drives. Try to avoid unnecessary speed changes, as these require more fuel. Be mindful of the terrain and adjust your speed accordingly.

Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, can help to ensure that your engine is running efficiently. A poorly maintained engine can consume more fuel than a well-maintained one. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and interior to lighten the load. This is an easy way to improve fuel efficiency without making any significant changes to your driving habits. Check all Infiniti fuel economy data to see how weight impacts other models.