18 MPG combined won’t impress fuel-conscious drivers, but it’s acceptable for the 2018 Audi R8 Spyder RWD with its loud 5.2L V10 engine. It’s an experience, a visceral symphony of performance and open-air thrills. The buyer of this car isn’t agonizing over tenths of a mile per gallon; they’re seeking an emotional connection, a statement of intent made with every blip of the throttle.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. Expect the city figure to be accurate, or even slightly lower if launching aggressively from every stoplight. Highway mileage is more attainable, if you resist the urge to constantly exploit the engine’s prodigious power for passing maneuvers. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (S tronic) transmission helps here, offering quick shifts and keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both performance and efficiency when cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi R8 Spyder RWD will be approximately $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using current national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, the type of fuel use, and local fuel prices. If most miles are racked up during short city trips or track days, expect to exceed that $3,200 figure notably. This price also only reflects the cost of fuel and does not include any maintenance fees.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers are irrelevant when you’re pushing this car. Real-world MPG is heavily dependent on the driver. Drive it hard, and fuel economy will plummet. Gentle cruising will get close to the EPA estimates, but the temptation to listen to the V10 is always present. A realistic expectation for mixed driving is somewhere between 15 and 20 MPG. Remember: this is a supercar, not a hybrid. For objective information about all Audi fuel economy data, or R8 MPG across all years, check out the rest of the site.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the R8 Spyder places it in supercar territory. A 2018 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder, with its similar V10 engine, achieves an EPA-estimated 13 MPG city and 18 MPG combined. A McLaren 570S Spider manages a slightly better 16 MPG city and 22 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet offers a more reasonable 19 MPG city and 25 MPG combined, but it fulfills a different need, offering a more practical and less overtly dramatic daily driving experience. These small differences in MPG figures are unlikely to sway buyers in this segment. They are prioritizing performance, sound, and head-turning style above all else.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Drive Select system. The “Comfort” mode softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, resulting in improved fuel economy around town. Don’t expect miracles, but it can make a small difference, especially when stuck in stop-and-go traffic.

Avoid short trips. Cold starts are particularly inefficient. Combine errands into longer drives when possible, allowing the engine to reach optimal operating temperature and maximize fuel efficiency.

Check tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb to find the recommended tire pressure for the R8.

Resist temptation. The V10 encourages excessive use, but every aggressive acceleration run burns fuel. Practice smooth acceleration and deceleration, and limit high-RPM driving to special occasions. Your wallet will appreciate it.