17 MPG combined won’t win any awards. It’s the fuel economy you can expect from the 2025 Audi SQ7 4.0L 8-cyl, and it reflects the compromise made for exciting performance and strong towing capability. Buyers who choose the SQ7 are typically not prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else; they’re looking for a luxury SUV that can haul kids, cargo, and even a trailer with authority, wrapping it all in a well-designed package.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates break down to 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure underscores that stop-and-go driving will take a significant toll on fuel consumption due to the engine’s displacement and the vehicle’s weight. The highway number is more respectable, reflecting the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once it settles into a steady state. However, enthusiastic use of the throttle will quickly bring that highway figure down. Remember that real-world conditions like hills, headwinds, and even tire pressure will impact your mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 for the 2025 Audi SQ7. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Your personal fuel costs will differ based on your driving habits and where you live. Areas with higher fuel taxes, for example, will translate to greater expenditure. That said, $3,400 is a significant yearly expense and one that prospective SQ7 buyers should carefully consider.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers provide a standardized benchmark, but driving style drastically affects real-world fuel economy. Drive aggressively, with frequent hard acceleration, and expect to see figures significantly lower than 17 MPG combined. If you adopt a more conservative driving style, anticipate more highway miles, and maintain your SQ7 meticulously, you might approach or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates. Tire inflation, roof racks, and passenger/cargo weight all play a role. Many owners find their average falls somewhere slightly below the combined EPA rating.

How it compares

The SQ7 competes in a segment where fuel economy isn’t typically the primary purchase driver, but comparisons are still relevant. The BMW X5 M60i, with its twin-turbo V8, achieves around 19 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 580, another V8-powered competitor, lands in a similar range. The Range Rover Sport with the P400 powertrain offers a slightly better 20 MPG combined, thanks to its mild-hybrid system. Porsche Cayenne S? Expect roughly 18 MPG. These differences might seem marginal, but over the course of a year, they can translate into hundreds of dollars. Buyers considering the SQ7’s performance and luxury should review SQ7 MPG across all years to understand historical trends. And you can review all Audi fuel economy data for comparisons across the entire model range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use Audi Drive Select wisely. The “Efficiency” mode is designed to optimize fuel consumption by adjusting throttle response, transmission mapping, and even HVAC settings. It might slightly dampen the SQ7’s performance, but it can make a noticeable difference in fuel economy, especially during long highway drives.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the doorjamb sticker. Properly inflated tires also improve handling and extend tire life, delivering added benefits.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient even when starting, so prolonged idling is essentially a waste of fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. This is especially true in urban environments with frequent stop lights.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel than smooth, gradual maneuvers. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible. This will improve fuel economy, and it will also contribute to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.

Schedule regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow Audi’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Addressing potential issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more serious problems that can negatively impact fuel economy.