17 MPG combined is the price of admission to the reliable world of naturally aspirated, V10-powered supercars. Let’s be brutally honest: if you’re agonizing over the fuel consumption of a rear-wheel drive 2022 Audi R8 Coupe with a 5.2L engine, you’re missing the point entirely. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s an experience, a visceral thrill machine designed to deliver a symphony of mechanical noises and breathtaking performance. The buyer isn’t cross-shopping with a Prius. They’re considering a Lamborghini Huracan, a Ferrari 296 GTB, or perhaps a McLaren Artura, and the R8 presents itself as a slightly more understated, arguably more reliable, and definitely more accessible option.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Audi R8 Coupe RWD’s fuel economy at 14 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the frequent stop-and-go driving, showing the V10 engine’s thirst when constantly accelerating from a standstill. However, the 23 MPG highway rating becomes surprisingly attainable on longer cruises, given its strong output. This split isn’t unusual for high-performance machines. The engine is optimized for power, not sipping fuel during low-speed maneuvers.

Out on the open road, particularly with the automatic transmission in a higher gear, the R8 can exhibit a degree of restraint that will pleasantly surprise.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi R8 Coupe RWD at exactly $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a set percentage allocated to city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this estimate is a snapshot in time. Fluctuations in gasoline prices will directly impact this number.

and if you’re using the R8 primarily for weekend joyrides or track days, your mileage might be much lower, and your annual fuel expenditure could be significantly less. Conversely, consistent lead-footed driving will inflate that $3,400 figure rather quickly.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers for a moment. Real-world fuel economy for the R8 will vary wildly depending on driving style and how the car is used. Frequent short trips where the engine never fully warms up will yield lower results. Extended highway driving, using cruise control, will likely get closer to the EPA’s 23 MPG estimate, perhaps even exceeding it slightly.

The enthusiastic driver who embraces the R8’s performance potential will likely see numbers closer to the 14 MPG city figure, even on mixed driving cycles. Driving style plays a huge role. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will conserve fuel, while aggressive acceleration and braking will punish your wallet. It’s up to you.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the R8’s fuel economy is within the expected range for this class. The Lamborghini Huracan, sharing a similar V10 engine, posts EPA figures of 13 MPG city and 18 MPG highway. Certain trims of the Porsche 911 Turbo S, while offering comparable performance with a turbocharged flat-six, achieve slightly better figures around 15 MPG city and 20 MPG highway. Even the McLaren Artura, despite its hybrid powertrain, only manages about 21 MPG combined.

The R8 buyer isn’t necessarily seeking the absolute best fuel economy. Instead, they’re weighing performance, brand cachet, and the overall driving experience. The R8 strikes a balance between these factors, offering accessible supercar performance without venturing into the outright ostentatious or excessively complex realms that some competitors occupy. You can find R8 MPG across all years for a broader comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Be gentle with the throttle. The R8’s V10 responds eagerly to even slight pedal inputs. Modulating the throttle and avoiding unnecessary bursts of acceleration can significantly improve fuel economy, especially in urban environments.

Use the automatic transmission’s higher gears whenever possible. The R8’s dual-clutch gearbox is adept at selecting the optimal gear for efficiency. Allow the transmission to shift naturally, avoiding manual downshifts unless truly necessary for performance or engine braking.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, decreasing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels to optimize fuel economy and handling. This is doubly important on a high-performance sports car like the R8.

Avoid prolonged idling. Allowing the engine to idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate a wait, turn off the engine. Modern cars do not need extended warm-up periods, especially during moderate weather conditions.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. A clean fuel system operates more efficiently. Over time, deposits can build up in fuel injectors, hindering their performance and reducing fuel economy. A quality fuel additive can help remove these deposits and restore optimal injector function. Consult your Audi owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for recommended additives.

For all Audi fuel economy data, see our brand hub.