22 MPG combined won’t win any lower fuel costs awards, but it’s the price of admission for the 2025 Audi S5 and its combination of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability. This isn’t a car purchased by hypermilers. It’s a choice made by drivers who want a stylish and engaging coupe, Sportback, or convertible without completely obliterating their fuel budget. Performance takes priority, but not at the expense of reasonable efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA splits the S5’s fuel economy at 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That discrepancy highlights the S5’s split personality. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to use the turbocharged V6’s immediate torque will drag down fuel consumption. On the open road, however, that same engine settles into a relaxed cruise, allowing the S5 to deliver respectable mileage, especially on long journeys where the seven-speed automatic transmission can lock into its higher gears. The quattro all-wheel-drive system, while a performance and safety boon, also contributes to slightly lower MPG figures compared to rear-wheel-drive alternatives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2025 Audi S5. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended (if not outright required) for optimal performance and longevity. Changes in driving style, commuting distance, and fluctuations in fuel prices will all impact the actual amount you spend at the pump.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s numbers are a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often varies. S5 ownership involves a heavier right foot now and then. The intoxicating sound and readily available power from the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 are difficult to resist. If you frequently engage in spirited driving, expect to see MPG figures closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. Conversely, disciplined highway driving with careful use of cruise control can yield results that exceed the EPA’s 28 MPG estimate. Many owners find that a combined average in the low 20s is typical.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the S5’s fuel economy is within the expected range for its class. The BMW 440i xDrive, for example, achieves a similar 22 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe, with its more potent engine, sacrifices some efficiency, landing around 20 MPG combined. A Lexus RC 350 AWD manages around 22 MPG combined as well, though its driving experience is distinctly different. The S5 strikes a balance, providing impressive performance with acceptable fuel consumption for buyers willing to prioritize both. Explore S5 MPG across all years to see historical trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration is the enemy of fuel economy. Smooth, gradual throttle inputs help the engine operate more efficiently. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is good practice for tire life and handling as well.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes fluctuations in fuel consumption. Be mindful of hills and anticipate changes in terrain to avoid unnecessary acceleration or deceleration.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, as extra weight increases fuel consumption. This is especially important if you frequently carry cargo that isn’t always needed.

Consider your driving mode. While the “Dynamic” mode unleashes the full potential of the engine, using “Comfort” or “Efficiency” modes can optimize fuel economy by adjusting throttle response and transmission shift points. Explore all Audi fuel economy data to see how different models compare.