The 2025 Audi Q5 quattro 2.0L 4-cyl gets 26 MPG combined, so it gets acceptable gas mileage. Buyers of this Q5 configuration probably aren’t prioritizing ultimate fuel efficiency. They’re more likely interested in the reliable quattro all-wheel drive, the responsiveness of the 2.0L turbocharged engine, and the Audi prestige, so fuel economy is a secondary consideration. The 26 MPG represents a compromise they’re clearly willing to make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2025 Q5 quattro 2.0L are 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects urban driving, where the engine idles or accelerates from a standstill and uses more fuel. The 29 MPG highway rating is more appealing, suggesting longer trips are possible without using too much gas. The Q5’s seven-speed automatic transmission (AM-S7) helps with this, keeping the engine at the right RPMs at cruising speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2025 Audi Q5 configuration at $2,250. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles per year and uses the national average fuel price when the EPA tested the vehicle. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on how much you drive and where you live, since fuel prices change. The EPA’s number is a useful benchmark for comparing running costs, but it’s not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

The EPA uses a standard testing method, but real-world fuel economy varies. Driving style, terrain, and weather influence your Q5’s MPG. Quick acceleration, hard braking, and idling hurt fuel consumption. Driving in hills or facing headwinds requires more power and burns more fuel. Maintaining a steady speed on flat ground in calm weather can help you get closer to the EPA’s highway estimate. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and accessories like air conditioning or heated seats can also make a difference. Check all Audi fuel economy data.

How it compares

In the compact luxury SUV segment, the Q5’s fuel economy is competitive, but not the best. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, another popular choice with a 2.0L turbo and all-wheel drive, gets an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. The Acura RDX SH-AWD, while more powerful, gets around 23 MPG combined. Even the Lexus NX 350h hybrid achieves noticeably better results at 39 MPG combined, but it has a different price and driving feel that might not appeal to Q5 buyers. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC gets 26 MPG combined, nearly the same as the Q5. The one or two MPG difference is often insignificant to Q5 buyers, who are more focused on interior appointments, technology, and driving experience, see Q5 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. In “Efficiency” mode, the Q5’s powertrain saves fuel. The transmission upshifts earlier, throttle response is softened, and coasting is enabled, reducing engine braking.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Refer to the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the right tire pressure for your Q5.

Avoid carrying extra weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the load, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove items you don’t need daily from the trunk, such as sporting equipment or tools.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking by keeping a safe following distance and looking ahead. Gradual acceleration and smooth deceleration save more fuel than jerky driving.

Minimize idling. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars restart quickly and efficiently, saving fuel. This helps in city driving.