The 2024 Audi S5 Cabriolet gets 22 MPG combined, a figure that won’t win any awards for lower fuel costs but one that rarely deters its target buyer. This isn’t the car for the hyper-miler; it’s for the driver who prioritizes open-top thrills and performance, understanding that compromise comes somewhere. That “somewhere” is at the gas pump a bit more often than in a more economy-focused vehicle. The S5 Cabriolet appeals to those who want a blend of luxury, performance, and open-air driving, and who are willing to accept a fuel bill that reflects that desire.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for the S5 Cabriolet. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 is constantly working to accelerate the car from a standstill. The highway number, however, is more respectable. At cruising speeds, the engine settles into a more efficient rhythm, and while 27 MPG isn’t groundbreaking, it’s adequate for longer journeys. The S tronic eight-speed automatic transmission, geared for performance, also contributes to highway efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal powerband when cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Audi S5 Cabriolet at $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate that can vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. Premium fuel is recommended for the S5, so costs might be higher or lower than average, depending on where you live and your driving style. Drivers with heavier feet will most likely see a higher annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often diverges. The S5 Cabriolet’s turbocharged engine is eager to perform, and it’s easy to find yourself dipping into the throttle to enjoy its acceleration. Doing so will, of course, impact your fuel efficiency. Weather conditions also impact fuel economy. Putting the top down will lower the MPG slightly due to increased air resistance. However, a relaxed highway cruise, with the cruise control set and the top up, can yield results very close to the EPA’s 27 MPG estimate. Most owners report slightly lower numbers than the EPA, but that is expected, given the car’s performance-oriented nature and the temptations it presents.

How it compares

The S5 Cabriolet competes in a niche segment, but shoppers often consider alternatives. The BMW 4 Series Convertible M440i xDrive posts EPA ratings of 23 MPG combined, 20 city, and 30 highway, illustrating the inherent advantage afforded by BMW’s powertrain engineering. Elsewhere, the Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet brings an EPA combined figure of 21 MPG. While those vehicles may have slightly different strengths, the core mission is similar, as is the MPG. For buyers of these cars, driving experience and design are often more important than a difference of 1 or 2 MPG. For a broader picture, review S5 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The S5’s turbocharged engine responds eagerly to throttle inputs, but a gentle foot will save gas. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain consistent speeds whenever possible. The less you brake and accelerate, the better your fuel economy will be. Use the car’s drive mode selector to choose the “Efficiency” or “Comfort” mode when you’re not looking for maximum performance. These modes detune the engine and transmission for better fuel economy in normal driving situations.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Also, keep up with scheduled maintenance. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently. Make sure to change your oil and air filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Consider the impact of the air conditioning. Running the AC, especially on hot days, increases fuel consumption. Use it sparingly and consider opening the windows or lowering the top when the weather permits. However, at highway speeds, the aerodynamic drag of open windows or a lowered top can actually be worse than using the AC.

Be mindful of extra weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo in your trunk or on the roof increases the vehicle’s weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items that you don’t need, especially heavy objects. Consider the impact of aftermarket modifications. While performance upgrades might be tempting, they can negatively impact fuel economy. Stick to modifications that are designed for efficiency, such as low-rolling-resistance tires.

Finally, using cruise control on the highway is an easy way to avoid unintended speed increases and it also helps to maintain a consistent speed. While the S5 is equipped with an automatic (S tronic) transmission, you should still avoid constantly changing speed to yield the best fuel consumption on long, flat highway stretches. For all Audi fuel economy data, consult FuelEconomyHub.com.