The 2024 Audi RS 7 gets 17 MPG combined. It’s the cost for a visceral driving experience few sedans can match. This isn’t a car purchased for maximizing efficiency; it’s a sledgehammer wrapped in Italian leather, and its owners know the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The RS 7’s EPA ratings break down to 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst during stop-and-go driving, where the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8’s instant power isn’t fully used, and its considerable weight works against it. The highway number, while better, still lags behind less potent performance sedans, due in part to the RS 7’s aerodynamic profile, optimized more for high-speed stability than outright slipperiness.

Annual fuel cost

The 2024 Audi RS 7 will cost about $3,400 per year to fuel, according to EPA estimates. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. It also factors in the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which the RS 7 requires. This is a significant expenditure, but likely a drop in the bucket for the typical RS 7 owner who prioritizes performance.

Real-world expectations

Expect the RS 7’s MPG to vary widely depending on driving style. Gentle cruising on the highway might approach the EPA’s 22 MPG figure, but frequent bursts of acceleration will quickly send the number plummeting. Consider how RS MPG across all years has trended; driving it hard is part of the car’s mission. Those who bought this car weren’t prioritizing fuel costs, so this figure is just a point of data. Aggressive acceleration and track use will easily drop the average into the single digits, but if that is of concern, this driver should have purchased the A7 or e-tron GT instead.

How it compares

The RS 7’s fuel economy puts it on the lower end of the high-performance sedan spectrum. The BMW M5 Competition, for instance, offers a slightly better 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, a difference that stems from more efficient engine management. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe lands at a similar 15 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. Buyers often cross-shop these super-sedans, but the MPG difference is often a small factor when these drivers are making comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. Selecting “Efficiency” mode alters the engine mapping, transmission shift points, and even climate control settings to prioritize fuel conservation. While it will dull throttle response, it can noticeably improve economy during steady-state cruising. Most owners drive in “Dynamic” mode as often as reasonable.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance to improve fuel economy. The RS 7’s performance tires are sensitive to pressure changes, so regular checks are essential to optimize both efficiency and handling. Under-inflated tires are a quick way to burn extra fuel and cause even quicker tire wear.

Minimize idling. The RS 7’s large displacement engine consumes a significant amount of fuel when idling. Turn off the engine when stopped for more than a minute, especially in urban environments. The start/stop system, though sometimes intrusive, is best left active in city driving.

Anticipate traffic. Smooth acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy. By anticipating traffic flow and avoiding sudden stops, you’ll minimize the need for hard acceleration, which uses a lot of fuel. Look as far in front as possible to read the upcoming changes in traffic flow.

Consider the total cost of ownership. The RS 7 is not just expensive to fuel; maintenance and insurance costs are also considerably higher than for mainstream vehicles. Budget accordingly to avoid any financial surprises. For all Audi fuel economy data, factor in these maintenance costs over the lifespan of the vehicle.