24 MPG combined is what you get with the 2024 Audi S5 Coupe. This isn’t a hybrid, nor is it trying to be. It’s a stylish two-door GT car with a potent turbocharged V6, quattro all-wheel drive, and a clear mission: deliver brisk performance and attractive looks, not hyper-miling fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S5 Coupe’s fuel efficiency at 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating. The highway number, closer to 30 MPG, is more appealing. Many owners find that figure achievable on long road trips when maintaining a steady cruising speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both performance and efficiency. This transmission is also a good match for the character of the car, preferring smooth shifts unless you use aggressive throttle inputs.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Audi S5 Coupe is $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the S5 to other vehicles, but remember that your actual fuel costs will change depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. While premium fuel is recommended for the S5, some owners may opt for regular octane fuel. Using regular fuel will reduce fuel costs, but it will likely also reduce engine performance. The $2,400 estimate is a helpful data point when projecting your overall ownership expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel consumption in the S5 Coupe will change based on driving style and conditions. Drivers with a heavy foot, especially those frequently using the car’s considerable power, will likely see figures below the EPA estimates. However, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and use the adaptive cruise control on highways may achieve slightly better results.

The S5’s character also influences MPG. It’s a car that encourages spirited driving, and resisting the urge to tap into its performance potential can be a challenge. Expect to be closer to the 21 MPG city or 29 MPG highway estimates if you drive only city or highway miles, respectively; expect something in between for a mix of the two.

How it compares

The S5 Coupe’s fuel economy puts it in a specific competitive set. The BMW 440i Coupe, for instance, which also offers a turbocharged inline-six, achieves a comparable 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG Coupe, with its boosted four-cylinder, delivers around 22 MPG combined. This small but noticeable difference might matter to some buyers, but the S5 buyer prioritizes style, interior quality, and the Audi driving experience. For those willing to sacrifice some performance for better efficiency, the Lexus RC 350, with its naturally aspirated V6, returns around 23 MPG combined, a trade-off that some buyers may be willing to make. See S5 MPG across all years for more information about this car’s fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The surge of power from the S5’s turbocharged engine is addictive, but each burst of acceleration consumes extra fuel. Smooth, predictable throttle inputs will help keep the turbocharger from constantly spooling up, boosting your MPG.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces driver fatigue and minimizes unnecessary changes in engine load, leading to improved fuel efficiency. The S5 Coupe’s adaptive cruise control is particularly useful, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level as indicated on the doorjamb sticker. This simple step can have a noticeable impact on both fuel economy and tire wear.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, shut off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there is no need to let the car idle unnecessarily. Modern vehicles will automatically shut off their engines when idling in certain situations to conserve fuel.

Consider drive mode selection. While the “Dynamic” mode unlocks the S5’s full potential, the “Comfort” or “Efficiency” modes can prioritize fuel economy by adjusting throttle response and shift points. Experiment with these different modes to find the best balance between performance and efficiency for your particular driving conditions. You can always explore all Audi fuel economy data to compare the S5’s MPG to other models in the lineup.