20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for less gas, but it’s also not the primary concern for someone drawn to the 2019 Audi RS 5 Sportback and its snarling 2.9L twin-turbo V6. This car prioritizes performance and head-turning style over pure efficiency, and its fuel economy reflects that choice. Buyers in this segment are willingly trading some trips to the pump for exhilarating acceleration and distinct design, a trade-off many find perfectly acceptable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the RS 5 Sportback break down to 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure aligns with the car’s nature; it’s happiest when the engine is allowed to stretch its legs, something difficult to do in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number is more respectable, reflecting the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once settled into a consistent speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) plays a crucial role here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band. But let’s be honest: most RS 5 Sportback owners aren’t prioritizing fuel conservation, and those bursts of power are addictive enough that it is hard to drive sedately.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Audi RS 5 Sportback is $2,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that fluctuations in gas prices will directly influence this number, and your individual driving habits will have the biggest impact. Someone who frequently uses the RS 5 Sportback’s launch control will find themselves well above the EPA estimate, while someone who spends most of their time on open highways might fare a little better.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors such as driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can all influence consumption. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and extended idling will all take a toll on fuel efficiency. Similarly, colder weather tends to lower fuel economy as engines require more fuel to reach operating temperature. Expect to see figures near the EPA’s estimates during normal driving, but don’t be surprised if you occasionally fall short, particularly if you frequently indulge in the RS 5’s performance potential. Checking RS MPG across all years can provide a broader view of user-reported fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the RS 5 Sportback lands in a similar fuel economy range. The BMW M340i xDrive, for example, achieves around 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C43 sedan is rated at 22 MPG combined. The slightly larger Porsche Panamera 4S offers similar performance to the RS 5, but only achieves 21 MPG combined. These differences, while potentially impactful over time, are unlikely to be a major deciding factor for buyers already committed to high-performance vehicles; these buyers are willing to sacrifice a few MPGs for the driving experience offered by each car.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the RS 5 Sportback isn’t designed for maximum fuel economy, there are steps you can take to improve your MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume considerable fuel. Smooth and consistent driving will always be more efficient.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side door jamb or in the owner’s manual.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying around extra cargo or equipment adds to the vehicle’s load, decreasing fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need to lighten the load.

Take advantage of the Audi Drive Select system. Even in the RS 5, the “Comfort” or “Efficiency” modes can temper the engine’s responsiveness and optimize transmission settings for better fuel economy when you’re not looking for maximum performance. If you are interested in comparing all Audi fuel economy data, it’s important to check all available driving modes to understand how those changes impact the overall MPG figures.