19 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2015 Nissan GT-R expecting Prius-like efficiency. This car is engineered for acceleration and performance, a technological showcase disguised as a coupe. Fuel economy is, frankly, a byproduct of extracting maximum horsepower from its twin-turbo six-cylinder engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates put the GT-R at 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. Those numbers reflect a particular testing methodology and are useful for comparison, but they should be viewed within the context of how a GT-R is typically driven. Stop-and-go city driving, with bursts of acceleration, will likely see real-world figures dip below 16 MPG. On the highway, a steady cruise might approach, or even slightly exceed, 23 MPG, but restraint is key, and that can be difficult for GT-R owners.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Nissan GT-R at $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and factoring in the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Deviating from this driving pattern , say, more aggressive track days or significantly more city commuting , will directly impact this annual fuel cost, potentially increasing it substantially. This estimate assumes gasoline prices remain stable, too.

Real-world expectations

GT-R owners understand they will rarely achieve the EPA’s combined 19 MPG. Aggressive driving is simply too tempting. The roar of the engine, the rapid gear changes, the exhilaration of pushing the car to its limits, contribute to a driving experience that prioritizes performance over fuel conservation. Owners report averages closer to 14-17 MPG in mixed driving, accepting this as the price to pay for the GT-R’s capabilities.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance cars, the 2015 GT-R’s fuel economy falls within a range, but context is vital. A Porsche 911 Carrera S achieves around 22 MPG combined, an improvement. The GT-R offers more horsepower and torque. A Chevrolet Corvette Stingray manages about 19 MPG combined, similar to the GT-R. The BMW M4 with its 6-cylinder turbo engine gets 20 MPG, while offering less power and a different driving feel.

Buyers considering the GT-R prioritize performance. Fuel economy is a secondary concern to horsepower, grip, and track times. A potential GT-R owner comparing against a 911 might be willing to trade a few MPG for the GT-R’s raw power and all-wheel-drive traction.

To see all Nissan fuel economy data, browse our site. You can also learn about GT R MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its performance-oriented nature, there are ways to minimize fuel consumption in a GT-R: avoid unnecessary heavy acceleration. Smooth, gradual increases in speed will use less fuel than constant bursts of power. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Regular maintenance is critical. A well-tuned engine is more efficient than one that is neglected. Ensure the spark plugs are in good condition, the air filter is clean, and the engine oil is at the correct level, and use the proper oil as specified by Nissan.

Tire pressure also plays a role. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, which will be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Limit track days. While the GT-R is designed for the track, extended periods of high-rpm, full-throttle driving will decimate fuel economy. Occasional track use is expected, but minimizing the frequency will improve overall consumption.