15 MPG combined. Okay, that’s not going to win any fuel efficiency awards. But for the 2022 Audi R8 Spyder, a car designed to deliver pure thrills from its naturally aspirated V10 engine, fuel economy is as relevant as discussing parachute thread count. R8 Spyder buyers aren’t prioritizing trips to the gas station; they’re prioritizing trips to the redline, the open road, and envious stares. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a statement. And that statement is loud, fast, and thirsty.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure results directly from stop-and-go driving, where the R8’s powerful engine constantly works to accelerate its weight. The dual-clutch AM-S7 transmission’s benefit is somewhat negated at lower speeds where its responsiveness sacrifices some fuel efficiency. On the open road, the 19 MPG figure is achievable if you’re being conscientious – which is a big “if.” It’s far too tempting to drop a gear (or two) and experience the V10’s intoxicating roar as you rocket past slower traffic. Responsible, it is not. Addictive, absolutely. The R8 Spyder’s all-wheel-drive system contributes to its exceptional grip and handling, and also adds weight and complexity that further impacts fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi R8 Spyder is $3,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which these high-performance engines require. Potential R8 owners have undoubtedly factored this substantial sum into their purchasing decision. If you’re constantly pushing the engine, expect that sum to rise significantly, especially with volatile fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

You probably won’t achieve the EPA estimates in real-world driving. You might see 19 MPG on a long highway cruise, but that’s not what the R8 Spyder is about. Most R8 Spyder owners will likely average closer to the combined 15 MPG if they’re lucky, and even less if they frequently tap into the engine’s full potential. Expect even lower fuel economy around town, especially during spirited driving. Track days will obliterate any fuel efficiency. These cars are often weekend toys, and owners happily accept the cost of burning premium fuel to experience the car’s incredible performance.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance convertibles, the R8 Spyder’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, for example, achieves around 17 MPG combined from its turbocharged flat-six, trading some horsepower for a bit more efficiency. The Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder, another naturally aspirated V10 rival, is in roughly the same ballpark as the R8, with an estimated 15 MPG combined. The Ferrari F8 Spider, with its twin-turbo V8, delivers approximately 18 MPG combined. These differences are often negligible for the target demographic, even if measurable. Those comparing R8 MPG across all years or to all Audi fuel economy data are either curious or shopping in the wrong segment.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maximizing fuel efficiency isn’t the primary concern for R8 Spyder owners, but a few techniques can help squeeze a bit more range out of each tank. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth inputs will minimize wasted fuel. The car’s automatic transmission has a manual mode. Using the paddle shifters to upshift at slightly lower RPMs than the auto setting can provide a marginal fuel economy improvement.

Use the R8’s drive mode select system. The “Comfort” mode dials back engine response and adjusts the transmission’s shift points for smoother, more efficient driving, and it’s actually usable in normal driving. Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy and impacts handling. Check your tire pressures regularly to ensure they are at the recommended levels.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run wastes fuel. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute or two. Consider combining errands into a single trip. Starting and stopping the engine consumes more fuel than maintaining a constant speed. Grouping your errands together saves fuel and reduces wear and tear on the engine.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Carrying around extra weight reduces fuel economy. Clear out any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment. A few pounds can add up, especially in a performance car where every bit of weight savings can improve efficiency.