The 2020 Audi TT Roadster quattro, with its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, gets a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 26 MPG. This may not sound exceptional, but for a stylish, performance-oriented convertible designed for spirited driving, it’s a reasonable compromise between fun and saving gas, appealing to its target audience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Audi TT Roadster quattro gets 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. These figures show the car’s strengths. The lower city MPG suggests it’s not ideally suited for stop-and-go traffic, where its performance is somewhat wasted. The higher highway MPG, however, shows its ability to cruise comfortably and efficiently at higher speeds, which is good for weekend getaways and open-road adventures that TT Roadster owners often like. The seven-speed automatic transmission is tuned for quick acceleration and efficient highway cruising. It might encourage aggressive driving sometimes, but using the manual shift mode properly can help get better fuel consumption, especially when anticipating traffic changes.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Audi TT Roadster quattro is $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a fuel price that reflects national averages. Fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, but $1,700 provides a good point of reference. The TT Roadster buyer is likely more concerned with the experience the car provides than saving a few hundred dollars on fuel each year. The premium driving experience, complete with iconic styling and a powerful engine, justifies the expense. Get all Audi fuel economy data for further comparisons.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can change based on driving style, road conditions, and even tire pressure. Drivers who accelerate quickly or those who frequently engage the car’s sport mode may see lower MPG numbers. On the other hand, those who drive smoothly and at steady speeds can meet or even exceed the EPA estimates. The TT Roadster’s smaller size and relatively light weight help it get reasonable fuel economy, but its turbocharged engine is responsive and encourages spirited driving, which affects efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to other sporty convertibles, the 2020 Audi TT Roadster quattro is competitive. For example, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i, with its 2.0L turbocharged engine, achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined. The Porsche 718 Boxster, despite its mid-engine layout and performance focus, gets around 24 MPG combined. The TT Roadster’s 26 MPG balances performance with fuel efficiency against these competitors. For those considering other versions, review TT MPG across all years. The buying decision often comes down to brand preference, styling, and driving dynamics, with fuel economy playing a secondary, but still important, role.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Audi Drive Select system. Choosing the “Efficiency” mode will change engine and transmission settings for better fuel economy. This mode is a good way to get better highway mileage while minimizing the impact on responsiveness.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel economy and handling. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate them to the recommended level stated on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid accelerating and braking hard. The TT Roadster’s turbocharged engine delivers power, but accelerating uses more fuel. Practice smooth, gradual acceleration, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. The best MPG is achieved with steady speeds.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra items in your trunk or cabin adds weight to the vehicle, which reduces fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve your MPG. Every extra pound counts against fuel efficiency, but particularly in a small car like a convertible, weight further reduces mileage.