16 MPG combined. That’s the stark reality facing anyone considering the 2023 Audi RS Q8. It’s a number that immediately separates those who can afford the cost of entry from those who truly understand the mission this high-performance SUV sets out to achieve. This isn’t about frugality; it’s about unadulterated power, aggressive styling, and a driving experience few SUVs can match. The RS Q8 buyer isn’t cross-shopping hybrids; they’re seeking a statement, a visceral connection to the road, and the bragging rights that come with piloting one of the fastest production SUVs ever made. The fuel bill is simply the price of admission to this exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RS Q8 will achieve 13 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the inherent tradeoff between performance and efficiency. The city number reflects constant stop-and-go, the temptation to exploit the instantaneous torque from the twin-turbocharged V8, and the sheer mass of the vehicle requiring more energy to accelerate repeatedly. The highway figure, while seemingly low on paper, is more respectable when considering the RS Q8’s ability to effortlessly devour miles at elevated speeds. The advanced engineering allows the engine to cruise relatively efficiently when not pushed to its limits. Potential owners should be aware that consistently aggressive driving will likely result in figures below these EPA estimates, particularly in urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Audi RS Q8 is $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which are subject to change. Prospective buyers need to understand what this number represents. It’s an estimation based on standard driving habits, not a worst-case scenario. Someone who frequently engages in spirited driving or navigates heavily congested areas will almost certainly exceed this annual expense. Those who primarily use the RS Q8 for longer highway trips and are mindful of their driving habits might see slightly lower fuel costs. However, the key takeaway is that $3,600 is a substantial sum, and it should be factored into the overall cost of ownership. For more information, check all Audi fuel economy data. For more information on the MPG across all years of the model, check RS MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized framework for fuel economy ratings, real-world results often vary due to factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and even tire pressure. RS Q8 owners should temper their expectations accordingly. Achieving the EPA-estimated 20 MPG on the highway requires conscious effort. The temptation to accelerate quickly and exploit the engine’s power is ever-present, and indulging in that temptation will inevitably impact fuel consumption. Similarly, city driving is rarely consistent, with frequent stops, starts, and idling contributing to lower MPG figures. Owners who meticulously track their fuel economy may find they average somewhere between 14 and 18 MPG in mixed driving conditions.

How it compares

The RS Q8 exists in a rarefied segment of high-performance SUVs where fuel economy is often secondary to performance. The Lamborghini Urus, a close relative sharing the same VW Group DNA, posts similar figures around 14 MPG combined. The BMW X5 M Competition, another key rival, also resides in the 15-17 MPG range. Even the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, known for its performance and technology, achieves only slightly better numbers. These comparisons illustrate that the RS Q8’s fuel economy is par for the course among its direct competitors. Buyers considering these vehicles are typically aware of the fuel consumption and prioritize performance and luxury over outright efficiency. The slightly lower fuel economy is a concession they are willing to make for the experience these SUVs provide.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the RS Q8 isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are still a few techniques owners can employ to slightly improve fuel economy. Reduce unnecessary weight by removing any non-essential items from the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the overall load, requiring more engine power to accelerate and maintain speed.

Be mindful of your driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these maneuvers consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Use cruise control on long highway stretches to maintain a consistent pace and minimize unnecessary throttle adjustments.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual. Consider using the Audi Drive Select system to optimize for efficiency when performance isn’t the top priority.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your engine is properly tuned and that all fluids are at the correct levels. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, resulting in improved gas mileage.