18 MPG combined. Let’s be clear: nobody buys a 2015 Audi RS 7 because they prioritize fuel economy. This is a 560-horsepower Autobahn-stormer draped in a subtly aggressive, coupe-like hatchback body. Its mission is speed, luxury, and understated presence, and fuel consumption is simply the price of admission. It’s a tax the buyer willingly pays for the privilege of rocketing to 60 mph in under four seconds. Understanding this context is crucial when examining the RS 7’s efficiency, or lack thereof.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for the 2015 Audi RS 7. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the car’s heavy curb weight and powerful engine work against fuel efficiency. The highway number is more palatable, partially due to the car’s ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds once the eight-speed automatic transmission settles into its tallest gear. But even on the open road, a heavy foot will quickly send that number tumbling down. The temptation to unleash the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 is ever-present, and each acceleration surge extracts a toll at the pump. The engine uses cylinder deactivation technology at cruising speeds, shutting down four cylinders to save fuel. The fuel type for this vehicle is Premium Gasoline.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2015 Audi RS 7 is $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a significant expense, putting the RS 7 squarely in the territory of gas-guzzling performance cars. If you’re concerned about fuel costs, you might explore all Audi fuel economy data, or even the RS MPG across all years to see if there’s a more economical option.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s numbers in real-world driving. The RS 7 is a car that begs to be driven hard, and spirited acceleration and frequent bursts of speed are likely to become the norm. Expect the city MPG to often dip below 14, especially in heavy traffic.

The highway figure is more attainable, but only if you resist the urge to pass everyone in sight. If you buy an RS 7, you’re prioritising performance over economy.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2015 Audi RS 7’s fuel economy is, predictably, not a strong point. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe is rated at 17 MPG combined, slightly worse than the RS 7. The Mercedes-AMG CLS63 S, with its similarly powerful twin-turbo V8, achieves around 18 mpg combined, very similar to the Audi. Buyers who value performance in this segment know fuel economy will be sacrificed.

These cars trade blows in horsepower and 0-60 times, but none are winning any efficiency awards. Consider the Porsche Panamera Turbo, which achieves around 18 MPG combined. All of these cars cater to a buyer who demands high performance and is willing to overlook fuel costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use “D” (Drive) mode in the city instead of “S” (Sport) mode. “S” mode holds gears longer, maximizes power, and burns more fuel. “D” mode will prioritize higher gears and lower RPMs, making the engine work less.

Embrace the car’s coasting function. With the car’s “efficiency” drive select mode engaged, the transmission will decouple from the engine when you lift off the accelerator at highway speeds. This allows the car to coast with minimal resistance, saving fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the correct pressures.

Avoid excessive idling. Modern engines do not need to warm up for extended periods. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. The RS 7 is equipped with start/stop technology which helps minimize idling-related fuel consumption. Make sure it’s enabled.