17 MPG combined. The 2023 Audi RS 6 Avant isn’t winning any fuel efficiency awards, but the person looking for maximum miles per gallon likely isn’t considering a twin-turbocharged wagon like this. The RS 6 Avant is purchased by someone who needs the practicality of a wagon, demands strong performance, and is willing to pay more at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RS 6 Avant achieves 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers are a direct consequence of the 4.0L 8-cylinder engine under the hood. Stop-and-go city driving forces the engine to work harder. While 21 MPG on the highway is possible, it requires resisting the urge to use the available power. The automatic transmission provides fast shifts, and also contributes to fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

Owning an RS 6 Avant means higher fuel costs. The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Because this vehicle requires premium fuel, the actual running costs could be higher if fuel prices spike. The EPA calculates this figure by dividing the 15,000-mile annual average by the combined MPG (17 MPG in this case). That result is then multiplied by the average price of fuel at the time of calculation, which provides the estimated annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. Aggressive driving will lower that 17 MPG combined rating. Frequent hard accelerations and high-speed cruising will burn through fuel quickly. However, those who mainly use the RS 6 Avant for longer highway commutes, sticking to the speed limit, might see figures closer to, or slightly exceeding, the EPA’s 21 MPG highway estimate. However, very few RS 6 Avant owners are consistently driving with fuel efficiency as their primary focus.

How it compares

The RS 6 Avant’s fuel economy is in line with its direct competitors. The Mercedes-AMG E 63 S Wagon, with a twin-turbo V8, posts similar numbers, around 16 MPG combined. A BMW M5 Competition sedan achieves around 17 MPG combined, but it has a lighter body style. Performance SUVs such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo (around 17 MPG combined) offer a similar blend of performance and practicality but still don’t match the RS 6 Avant’s character. The RS 6 Avant’s fuel consumption is normal for its high-performance niche. See all Audi fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration will improve fuel economy. The twin-turbo V8 is responsive, so feathering the throttle during initial acceleration will consume less fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary hard braking, which requires more fuel to regain speed.

Engage the “Efficiency” drive mode when possible. This will soften the throttle response and adjust the transmission shift points, and it can make a difference during highway driving or in less demanding city conditions. It’s easy to switch back to “Dynamic” mode when desired.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regular tire pressure checks can help fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running, but idling wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. The RS 6 Avant is already heavy, so removing extra cargo from the trunk or back seats will reduce the load on the engine and improve fuel efficiency. Even small additions can add up. Find the RS MPG across all years to compare.

The RS 6 Avant’s appeal is more than fuel economy. Its design, performance, and exclusivity outweigh any concerns about gas mileage for its target demographic. The RS 6 Avant delivers a unique experience that its owners want.