21 MPG combined doesn’t sound like much, but it’s important to understand what the 2018 Acura NSX is: a mid-engine, all-wheel-drive hybrid supercar. Nobody buys an NSX agonizing over fractions of a mile per gallon. They buy it for the razor-sharp handling, the immediate thrust provided by its electric motors, and the sheer theater of its design. The NSX is a statement. The hybrid powertrain enhances performance, it’s not about saving money at the pump.

City and highway performance

The Acura NSX manages an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in both city and highway driving. This seemingly paradoxical result speaks to the nature of the NSX’s hybrid system. In urban environments, the electric motors contribute significantly to propulsion, especially during initial acceleration and low-speed cruising. This helps to offset the fuel consumption inherent to a large, turbocharged V6 engine. On the highway, the NSX uses its aerodynamic design and efficient nine-speed dual-clutch transmission to maintain respectable fuel economy, though the engine inevitably does more of the work at higher speeds. The fact that the city and highway figures are identical suggests a specific calibration where the electric motors provide assistance consistently regardless of driving environment.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Acura NSX is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes the vehicle will be fueled using gasoline priced at the national average. Fluctuations in fuel prices can significantly impact this cost. Drivers who cover fewer miles annually, or those who primarily use the car for weekend excursions, will likely spend less. Those with longer commutes will likely exceed this estimate. The $2,750 figure provides a benchmark, but individual fuel expenses will vary.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing numbers, real-world fuel economy often varies depending on driving style and conditions. NSX owners are unlikely to drive with fuel efficiency as their primary goal. The car encourages spirited driving, which inevitably impacts consumption. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates if you frequently exploit the NSX’s performance capabilities. However, conscientious drivers who use the car’s quiet mode and avoid excessive acceleration can achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. The NSX’s turbocharged engine with electric motor can recover energy during braking and deceleration which contributes to noticeable fuel savings in careful hands.

How it compares

Compared to other exotic cars, the NSX’s fuel economy is surprisingly respectable. A V10-powered Audi R8, for example, manages only 14 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Turbo, while slightly more efficient, still lags behind at 17 MPG combined. Even the BMW i8, another hybrid sports car, achieves only 28 MPG combined, a superior number, but the i8 prioritizes efficiency in a way that the NSX does not. Considering the NSX’s supercar performance, its fuel consumption is justifiable, especially for buyers who prioritize a blend of speed and technology over fuel savings. For a broader perspective, you can review all Acura fuel economy data. If you’re concerned about the fuel economy of the NSX across model years, there’s an article covering NSX MPG across all years too.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The NSX offers a “Quiet” mode, designed to prioritize electric driving at low speeds. Using this mode in stop-and-go traffic can significantly reduce fuel consumption. It’s important to also understand how aggressively you’re applying throttle in this mode, as excessive acceleration will override the electric-only operation.

Be mindful of tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, contributing to improved fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level specified on the doorjamb sticker. This is especially critical on a performance car like the NSX, where precise handling is essential.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, deliberate driving conserves fuel and minimizes wear and tear on the brakes and tires. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. Turn off the engine if you anticipate idling for more than a minute or two. The NSX’s hybrid system allows for smooth restarts, so there’s no reason to let the engine run unnecessarily.