25 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but that’s not the main goal of the 2016 Audi TTS Coupe. This sharply styled, turbocharged sports coupe prioritizes performance and driver engagement over maximum efficiency. The TTS is a car for enthusiasts who want a thrilling driving experience and accept decent fuel economy as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Audi TTS Coupe at 23 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the turbocharged engine can be less efficient, particularly with frequent acceleration. The highway estimate is a more realistic portrayal of fuel consumption during steady cruising. This difference is typical for vehicles with smaller displacement turbocharged engines, as they often rely on forced induction to deliver optimal performance, which can affect fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

Based on the EPA’s estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Audi TTS Coupe is $2,300. This figure is calculated assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year and using the national average fuel price. It’s important to remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of gasoline you use. This $2,300 estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the TTS to other vehicles, but it shouldn’t be considered an exact prediction of your individual expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. The 2016 Audi TTS is often driven enthusiastically, which leads to lower MPG than the EPA figures suggest. Owners who prioritize spirited acceleration and frequent use of the sport mode should expect figures closer to the low 20s. However, those who adopt a more conservative driving style on longer trips can likely achieve MPG numbers closer to the EPA’s 27 MPG highway estimate.

The TTS’s relatively small fuel tank also means that frequent fill-ups might be necessary, especially during longer road trips. It’s a trade-off that TTS buyers are generally willing to accept for the car’s performance capabilities. For TTS MPG across all years, check our dedicated model page.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2016 Audi TTS Coupe’s fuel economy is mid-pack. The BMW M235i, for example, achieves a slightly better 22 MPG city and 34 MPG highway with its turbocharged inline-six engine. The Porsche Cayman, another direct competitor, gets around 22 MPG city and 32 MPG highway, depending on the specific configuration. The Nissan 370Z, while offering similar performance, delivers lower fuel economy numbers, typically around 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. This comparison shows that the TTS offers a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

For all Audi fuel economy data, view our brand hub.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Audi Drive Select system. When not in the mood for spirited driving, selecting the “Efficiency” mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for fuel conservation. This mode softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, reducing unnecessary fuel consumption without significantly impacting overall drivability.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Properly inflated tires not only improve fuel efficiency but also enhance handling and tire life.

Minimize idling. Avoid excessive idling, especially when the engine is already warm. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so turning off the engine during brief stops can save a surprisingly significant amount of fuel over time. This is particularly relevant in urban environments with frequent traffic lights and stop signs.

Anticipate traffic flow and drive smoothly. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. By anticipating traffic patterns and maintaining a consistent speed, you can minimize unnecessary fuel consumption. Smooth, gradual acceleration and deceleration techniques are key to maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, including the Audi TTS Coupe.