18 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2017 Nissan GT-R to save money on gas. This car was built to set fast lap times and outperform supercars that cost much more, and its fuel consumption shows that. The GT-R is designed to defy physics, and owners accept the cost of fuel as part of owning it.

city and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Nissan GT-R gets 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. Considering the GT-R’s all-wheel-drive system, twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 565 horsepower, and all the technology, these numbers are not surprising. The AM6 automatic transmission, while responsive and quick-shifting, is geared for performance, not saving gas. Every time you hit the gas pedal, the engine uses a lot of fuel. Owners who drive on open roads more than in stop-and-go traffic will likely see the highway figure more often.

annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Nissan GT-R at $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price. This is an estimate. Driving habits, long commutes, and fuel prices can change the actual annual cost. The GT-R’s performance means many owners will probably spend more than $3,200 because they enjoy driving it hard. Those thinking about buying a GT-R should consider this, along with maintenance, insurance, and track day costs.

real-world expectations

While the EPA has a standard, real-world MPG in a 2017 GT-R depends on how you drive. Owners who keep using launch control and driving at high speeds will see their fuel economy drop below the EPA estimates. Drivers who drive gently during daily commutes might get closer to the EPA’s numbers. Unleashing the GT-R’s power is always tempting, making it hard to get the advertised MPG. Most owners report averaging around 15 MPG in mixed driving.

how it compares

The 2017 GT-R’s fuel economy is comparable to other high-performance sports cars. A Porsche 911 Carrera can get close to 20 MPG combined in some versions, but the Turbo S version will be closer to the GT-R’s MPG. The Chevrolet Corvette Z06, with its supercharged V8, also gets MPG in the high teens. The Audi R8 V10 performs like the GT-R, but its engine typically results in slightly lower MPG, around 14 MPG in real-world driving. Potential buyers compare these vehicles, and while fuel economy matters, performance and driving experience are more important. For more information, explore all Nissan fuel economy data. You can also research GT R MPG across all years to see how this vehicle has changed.

tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize hard acceleration. The GT-R’s launch control is fun, but using it a lot will lower fuel economy. Smooth acceleration and gentle use of the gas pedal during normal driving can save fuel. The car’s all-wheel-drive system uses more fuel than a typical car, especially under heavy load.

Correct tire inflation is critical. The GT-R’s performance relies on the correct tire pressure, and underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, wasting fuel. Regularly check your tire pressures and keep them at the recommended levels, which are listed on the door. Using the correct tire pressures also ensures optimal handling, traction and braking.

Avoid idling. Letting the GT-R idle for a long time wastes fuel, so turn off the engine when stopped for more than a minute. This is true for any turbocharged engine, where managing heat is always a priority. This is especially true in hot weather, when you might want to run the air conditioning while waiting.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed on long highway drives can improve fuel economy compared to changing your speed. The GT-R’s cruise control system helps you relax and save gas. The system will still downshift if it needs to climb a hill, so anticipate hills and adjust your speed.