The 2018 Audi TT RS 2.5L gets 22 MPG combined. While that won’t win any fuel efficiency awards, that’s not the point of this car. It’s a high-performance sports car, not a fuel-sipping commuter, and the engine is a key part of its appeal. The turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine is unique and delivers a thrilling driving experience. TT RS buyers trade some fuel efficiency for exhilarating acceleration and distinct character.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide a breakdown of the TT RS’s fuel consumption in different driving conditions. In the city, expect around 19 MPG, reflecting the demands of stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration. On the open highway, the TT RS fares better, achieving an estimated 29 MPG. These numbers illustrate how driving style and environment impact fuel economy. Regular highway cruising allows the engine to operate more efficiently, resulting in improved mileage. The advanced S tronic seven-speed automatic transmission also plays a role, offering quick shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band, balancing performance and efficiency, as much as it can in a car like this.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi TT RS will be $2,386. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. This is an estimate. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and fluctuations in gasoline prices. Drivers who frequently engage in spirited driving or spend more time in congested city environments can expect to exceed this annual cost. Let’s be honest, if you’re worried about a few hundred dollars difference in fuel costs, you might be shopping in the wrong segment.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can affect your MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Smooth driving with consistent speeds will help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Owners often report fuel economy figures within a few MPG of the EPA ratings, but it’s crucial to be realistic about your driving habits. Colder weather can reduce your MPG, particularly on short trips. The engine requires time to reach its optimal operating temperature to achieve peak efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to other performance cars in its class, the 2018 Audi TT RS’s fuel economy is typical for its level of performance. The Porsche 718 Cayman S, another similarly priced sports car, achieves roughly 22 MPG combined with its automatic transmission. The BMW M2, while similarly engaging, also averages around 22 MPG combined. The TT RS’s numbers are representative of what you can expect from a high-performance coupe with this kind of power output. These cars attract buyers who prioritize driving pleasure and performance over outright fuel efficiency. You can review TT MPG across all years to see how it compares to other versions of the model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The turbocharged engine of the TT RS delivers plenty of power, but using it carefully preserves fuel. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help you maintain momentum and minimize fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and reduces fuel efficiency. This is important in a performance car like the TT RS, where precise handling is critical. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel economy. Cruise control helps you maintain a steady pace on long highway drives, optimizing fuel efficiency.

Reduce idling time. Idling is a major fuel waster. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and restarting uses less fuel than idling for an extended period. The TT RS is a performance car that’s often used as a stylish everyday driver, so limit unnecessary idling as much as possible. You can explore all Audi fuel economy data on our site.