A combined 17 MPG. That’s the figure you need to reconcile yourself with if you’re considering a 2015 Audi R8 4.2L. It’s a number that would be utterly unacceptable in nearly any modern vehicle, but the R8 isn’t just any vehicle. It’s a mid-engine supercar, a machine designed to deliver visceral thrills and turn heads, not sip fuel like a Prius. This R8 is purchased by individuals who prioritize performance, sound, and prestige above all else, and for them, the fuel bill is simply a cost of ownership.

City and highway performance

The R8’s EPA ratings break down to 14 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of stop-and-go urban driving and sustained high-speed cruising, respectively. The 14 MPG city rating highlights how much fuel a high-performance V8 uses when starting from a standstill and navigating congested roads.

The 23 MPG highway figure, while still relatively low, demonstrates that the R8 can achieve reasonable efficiency when driven steadily at cruising speeds. Understand, though, that using the R8’s power for overtaking or simply enjoying its acceleration will quickly diminish that highway figure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Audi R8 4.2L at $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with approximately 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which is required for the R8’s high-compression engine. Keep in mind that this $3,400 is an estimate.

Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the specific roads you travel most often, and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. If you have a heavy foot and enjoy the sound of that V8 singing, expect that number to climb considerably. See all Audi fuel economy data here if you’re curious as to where this car measures up.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently hit the EPA’s 17 MPG combined. In real-world driving, especially if you live in an area with heavy traffic, expect something closer to 15 MPG. If you primarily use the R8 for weekend blasts and spirited drives, you might even see figures in the low teens. The R8 is not a car you buy for its fuel economy.

It’s a car you buy for the experience, and the fuel consumption is a secondary consideration, an accepted trade-off for the performance and emotion it delivers. Those seeking better efficiency from this range should see R8 MPG across all years for other powertrain options.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars and supercars of its era, the 2015 Audi R8 4.2L’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. A Porsche 911 Carrera S from the same year, for example, achieves around 22 MPG combined with its PDK transmission.

However, that extra mileage comes without the R8’s exotic mid-engine layout. A V8-powered Aston Martin Vantage from 2015 offers a similar experience to the R8, as well as strikingly similar fuel economy figures in the mid to high teens. While the Porsche may be the more sensible option due to its blend of performance and usability, buyers of the R8 prioritize the unique styling and driving experience, accepting the fuel economy penalty.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the R8 is not designed for fuel efficiency, there are a few techniques to help you stretch each gallon of premium gasoline. The most effective is to adopt a smooth and progressive driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume significant amounts of fuel. A gentle right foot will make more of a difference than you might expect.

Another easy trick is to ensure your R8’s tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual or on the doorjamb sticker.

Unnecessary weight impacts fuel consumption, even in a reliable car like the R8. Remove any unnecessary items from the car, such as golf clubs you aren’t using or heavy tools you only need infrequently to improve fuel mileage a bit.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Constant acceleration and braking in congested areas drastically reduce fuel efficiency. Instead, seek out routes with smoother traffic flow, even if they are slightly longer, to maintain a more consistent speed and minimize fuel waste.