26 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but it’s a perfectly reasonable figure for the 2018 Audi TT Roadster quattro. This isn’t a car about saving gas; it’s about open-top driving fun, stylish looks, and the security of all-wheel drive. The typical TT Roadster buyer prioritizes these attributes far above pinching pennies at the pump. They’re willing to accept adequate fuel economy as a trade-off for the unique experience this small German convertible provides.

City and highway performance

The 2018 TT Roadster quattro achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine works harder and the automatic transmission is constantly shifting. On the open road, the TT Roadster shines. With the top down and the wind in your hair, 30 MPG is a welcome number, especially when covering longer distances. The smooth-shifting AM-S6 automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal rev range for both performance and efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi TT Roadster quattro is $2,019. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often you engage in more spirited driving.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. TT Roadster drivers who frequently use the car for short trips, prioritize rapid acceleration, or spend a lot of time in congested traffic might see numbers closer to the city estimate of 23 MPG. Conversely, those who primarily use the TT for highway cruising could potentially exceed the 30 MPG estimate. Remember that driving style plays the biggest role in determining your actual fuel consumption. Also, consider heading for TT MPG across all years to see how the fuel economy has changed.

How it compares

The 2018 Audi TT Roadster isn’t alone in the realm of sporty convertibles. The BMW Z4 sDrive30i, for instance, achieves a slightly better 28 MPG combined. However, the Z4 doesn’t offer all-wheel drive like the TT Roadster quattro, which could be an important factor for buyers in colder climates. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, a perennial favorite for its affordability and driving dynamics, boasts a respectable 30 MPG combined, yet, the Miata lacks the luxury appointments and all-wheel-drive system of the TT. The Porsche 718 Boxster, while offering sharper handling and a more prestigious badge, achieves around 24 MPG combined. For those interested, here is all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.0L turbocharged engine in the TT Roadster is responsive, but also benefits from a gentle touch. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking to conserve fuel. The engine’s eagerness can be addictive, so adopting a smoother driving style will require some discipline, but it will pay off at the pump.

The Audi Drive Select system offers different driving modes that can impact fuel economy. Selecting the “Efficiency” mode will optimize the engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel savings, although this could dampen the sporty characteristics of the car. Experiment with the different modes to find the right balance between performance and efficiency that suits your driving preferences.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust as needed, especially during changes in temperature.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the car. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which can negatively impact fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need to carry on a regular basis to improve efficiency.