The 2018 Audi R8 AWD 5.2L 10-cyl gets 17 MPG combined. This represents a trade-off, a conscious decision made by the buyer who prioritizes the raw emotion and unparalleled driving experience that only a naturally aspirated V10 supercar can deliver. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a statement. It’s a machine engineered for exhilaration, and fuel economy is secondary to the engine’s sound.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Audi R8’s 14 MPG city and 22 MPG highway figures reveal two distinct personalities. In the city, the R8 is thirsty. Stop-and-go traffic negates any attempt at efficiency, highlighting the inherent inefficiencies of a high-revving, naturally aspirated engine. On the open road, however, with the engine breathing freely and the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (AM-S7) settling into higher gears, the R8 achieves a respectable 22 MPG, though this is still far from a Prius. This difference shows the R8’s true nature: a car happiest when unleashed on winding roads or a racetrack, not stuck in rush hour.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi R8 at $3,400. This figure is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average for premium gasoline. While individual spending may vary based on personal driving habits and local fuel costs, $3,400 provides a benchmark for prospective R8 owners to consider. If you drive less than 15,000 miles per year, your annual fuel costs will be lower, and if you exceed this mileage, you can expect to spend more.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers. While they provide a standardized comparison point, real-world fuel economy in the R8 depends heavily on driving style. Treat the throttle with respect on long highway cruises, and you might approach that 22 MPG figure. However, succumb to the temptation of the V10’s intoxicating sound and the allure of its blistering acceleration, and prepare to see those numbers plummet. Owners who frequently engage in spirited driving, track days, or even just enjoy the occasional full-throttle blast will likely find their average MPG well below the official estimates. This isn’t a fault of the car; it’s a consequence of its design and purpose.

How it compares

The R8 exists in a world where efficiency is rarely a primary concern, but even within its competitive set, its fuel economy is notable. A 2018 Porsche 911 Carrera, for instance, manages a slightly better 22 MPG combined, while the higher-performance 911 Turbo dips down to the R8’s 17 MPG. The Lamborghini Huracan, sharing much of its DNA with the R8, reports a similar 15 MPG city / 21 MPG highway , proof that this engine design and performance envelope offers limited efficiency potential. These buyers aren’t cross-shopping for Prius-like mileage; they are choosing between levels of performance, design, and brand cachet. You can explore R8 MPG across all years

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the R8 isn’t designed to be a fuel-sipper, small adjustments can make a difference in everyday driving. Gentle acceleration and avoiding hard braking minimize fuel consumption during city driving. The R8’s aggressive throttle response can make it easy to burn excessive amounts of fuel; try to become accustomed to modulating the throttle with restraint to avoid unnecessary consumption.

Take advantage of the car’s drive select modes. The “Comfort” mode, although not ideally suited to showcase this car’s incredible performance, softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, leading to a slight improvement in fuel economy during highway driving. Choosing “Comfort” when cruising can help optimize economy for long highway stretches where performance considerations are less critical.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, directly impacting fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended specifications to reduce drag and improve mileage.

Avoid short trips when possible. The R8, like most cars, is least efficient when the engine is cold. Combining multiple errands into a single trip allows the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature, minimizing fuel waste.

Keep your car well-maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that the engine is running at its peak efficiency. Don’t neglect maintenance tasks in an effort to save money; it can negatively affect fuel economy and potentially lead to more costly repairs. See all Audi fuel economy data.