17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but that’s entirely beside the point when you’re talking about the 2018 Audi R8 Spyder AWD with its magnificent 5.2L V10. This car wasn’t designed for hypermiling commuters; it’s a visceral, open-top exotic that delivers a symphony of sound and a driving experience bordering on the transcendental. Fuel economy is simply a secondary consideration for the individual who prioritizes thrills.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the R8 Spyder break down to 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where that glorious V10 is constantly asked to accelerate a relatively heavy all-wheel-drive machine. The highway number, while still not stellar, shows that the R8 can achieve respectable mileage when cruising at a consistent speed, although restraint is key, mashing the throttle will quickly drop those numbers. Drivers should view these figures as guidelines rather than guarantees, as driving style and conditions will significantly impact real-world results. See R8 MPG across all years and trims for more details.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi R8 Spyder is $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which the R8 requires. It’s crucial to understand that this is merely an estimate; fuel prices fluctuate, and your personal driving habits will play a significant role in determining your actual fuel expenditure. Someone who primarily drives aggressively in the city will likely spend more, while someone who takes mostly highway trips and exercises a light foot could potentially spend less. The $3,400 figure is still a realistic benchmark against other vehicles in this category.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA numbers, especially if you regularly indulge in the R8’s exhilarating performance. Given its nature and the sound of that incredible V10, resisting the urge to accelerate hard is a herculean feat. A more realistic expectation for combined mileage is probably closer to 15 MPG in mixed driving. Extended periods of spirited driving, especially on track days, can easily drop the average into the single digits. The R8 Spyder isn’t trying to be a Prius, and its drivers aren’t interested in driving it like one.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the R8 Spyder’s fuel economy sits about where you’d expect. The Lamborghini Huracan Spyder, which shares a similar engine and drivetrain, achieves roughly similar fuel economy figures. The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, while offering slightly better efficiency at approximately 18 MPG Combined, uses a turbocharged engine and presents a different driving experience. A McLaren 720S Spider is probably even less fuel efficient than the R8. Ultimately, fuel economy is rarely the deciding factor in this segment; performance, exclusivity, and emotional appeal are the primary drivers of purchasing decisions. You can see all Audi fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy may not be a top priority, you can still adopt some strategies to minimize fuel consumption in your R8 Spyder. Resist the urge to constantly accelerate aggressively. Smooth, progressive acceleration can significantly improve fuel efficiency, especially around town. Use the paddle shifters to manually select higher gears at lower RPMs, reducing engine load and fuel consumption.

Proper tire inflation is critical for optimal rolling resistance. Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This not only improves fuel economy but also enhances handling and prolongs tire life.

Avoid extended idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without providing any benefit.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and prioritize routes with fewer stops and starts. This can significantly improve fuel economy, especially in urban environments.

Consider using the Audi Drive Select system to choose a more fuel-efficient driving mode when maximum performance isn’t necessary. The “Efficiency” mode adjusts engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel economy, although its effect will be subtle.