18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2020 Nissan GT-R, it’s almost beside the point. This isn’t a car bought for sensible commuting; it’s a supercar slayer designed to deliver staggering performance on the road and track. Those who sign on the dotted line for a GT-R are prioritizing blistering acceleration and cornering grip over trips to the gas station, and they understand the trade-offs inherent in owning a machine this potent.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the GT-R achieves 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go realities of urban driving, where the GT-R’s twin-turbocharged 3.8L V6 will spend more time spooling up than cruising efficiently. The highway number, while still relatively low, demonstrates that the GT-R can achieve acceptable mileage when driven at a consistent speed. However, even on the open road, a heavy right foot will quickly see that 22 MPG figure plummet as the turbos come on boost and the engine unleashes its full fury.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Nissan GT-R to be $3,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. It’s a figure that buyers should consider seriously, as it represents a significant ongoing expense. Of course, many GT-R owners won’t put 15,000 miles on their cars annually, especially if they’re used primarily for weekend drives or track days. Still, it’s a useful benchmark for understanding the financial commitment involved in owning a high-performance vehicle like the GT-R. Prospective owners should also note that the GT-R requires premium fuel, further adding to the running costs. For all Nissan fuel economy data, you can check the EPA website.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the GT-R can vary significantly depending on driving style and conditions. Drivers who frequently engage the car’s launch control or spend a lot of time driving aggressively can expect to see even lower MPG figures than those published by the EPA. Similarly, track days will decimate fuel economy, as the engine operates at or near its limit for extended periods. Conversely, drivers who adopt a more conservative approach and spend most of their time on the highway might be able to get close to the EPA’s figures, but those drivers probably aren’t buying a GT-R in the first place. The GT-R’s performance is what matters, and fuel economy is a secondary consideration. You can also investigate GT R MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance vehicles, the GT-R’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. The Porsche 911 Turbo S delivers around 17 MPG combined, and the Audi R8 V10 Performance manages around 16 MPG combined. A Chevrolet Corvette Z06, while offering similar performance for less money, achieves roughly 15 MPG combined. These are all cars designed for speed and agility, and fuel economy is rarely a primary focus. The Acura NSX, with its hybrid powertrain, is a notable exception, achieving around 21 MPG combined, but it also comes with a different driving experience. Ultimately, the GT-R buyer accepts the fuel economy as a cost of admission to the world of high-performance motoring.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While maximizing fuel economy might not be the top priority for GT-R owners, there are a few things you can do to eke out a bit more mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration, especially from a standstill. The GT-R’s launch control is addictive, but frequent use will punish fuel economy.

Use the car’s paddle shifters to your advantage and shift smoothly. While the GT-R’s automatic transmission is quick and responsive, manual control can sometimes help you keep the engine within its most efficient range.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure to the recommended levels.

Reduce the car’s weight. Removing unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment can slightly improve fuel economy. Every little bit helps, though the impact will be small.