17 MPG combined is the price of admission to the exclusive club of Audi RS 7 ownership. You don’t buy this car to save gas. You buy it for blistering acceleration, head-turning styling, and the unmistakable snarl of a high-performance V8. The fuel consumption is simply a consequence, a necessary evil, of owning a machine built to deliver thrills above all else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Audi RS 7 are 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The significant drop in city driving reflects the engine’s thirst when subjected to stop-and-go traffic. The 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 requires a considerable amount of fuel to get its 4,900+ pounds moving from a standstill.

On the open road, the RS 7’s advanced transmission and aerodynamic profile allow it to achieve a more respectable 21 MPG, but even that figure is hardly groundbreaking. The engine is optimized for raw power output, not low-end efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Audi RS 7 is $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation uses the national average fuel prices at the time of estimation. Given the RS 7’s need for premium fuel, this cost is likely to be a very accurate measure of how much the average owner will spend.

Real-world expectations

Keep in mind that the EPA’s estimates are just that, estimates. Your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and even the weather. Drivers who aggressively use the RS 7’s power will almost certainly see numbers below the EPA’s figures. Conversely, those who predominantly use the car for long highway journeys and actively employ a light touch on the throttle might see slightly better results. However, achieving anything significantly above the EPA’s 21 MPG highway rating will require exceptional restraint. See all Audi fuel economy data here.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the RS 7’s fuel economy is predictably low. The Porsche Panamera Turbo S, another high-performance V8-powered sedan, achieves a similar 17 MPG combined. The BMW M8 Gran Coupe, with its own twin-turbo V8, lands in the same ballpark. Even some performance SUVs are surprisingly close. The Lamborghini Urus clocks in at 14 MPG combined.

These comparisons matter to the RS 7 buyer in a subtle way. It confirms that they’re not uniquely suffering at the pump. The tradeoffs are understood across this performance segment: power demands compromise fuel economy. If saving gas is a priority, they’d be shopping for an entirely different class of vehicle. Check out the RS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the RS 7’s fuel economy will never be stellar, there are some steps you can take to minimize consumption. Resist the temptation to constantly exploit the car’s explosive acceleration. Gradual acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will noticeably improve fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Use the RS 7’s drive select modes. The “Efficiency” mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for reduced fuel consumption. This mode dulls throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, making it suitable for everyday commuting, where outright performance isn’t required.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Removing excess cargo from the vehicle reduces the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. While the impact may be minimal, every little bit helps over the long run.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and stop-and-go traffic will significantly reduce fuel consumption. Opt for routes with fewer traffic lights and more opportunities to maintain a consistent speed, whenever possible.