18 MPG combined won’t impress any Prius drivers, but it’s frankly irrelevant to the very specific buyer drawn to the 2018 Audi R8 RWD with its naturally aspirated 5.2L V10. This isn’t a commuter car. This isn’t about saving money at the pump. This is about experiencing one of the last naturally aspirated V10 engines in production, channeled through rear-wheel drive for a purer, more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy is simply a footnote on the spec sheet, a known trade-off for unadulterated performance and aural delight.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 rear-wheel-drive R8 at 14 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. This significant disparity reflects the engine’s characteristics and the likely driving habits of its owners. City driving, with its stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration, forces the engine to operate in its least efficient range. The instant throttle response of a naturally aspirated engine is addicting when carving through city streets, and efficiency is not the main concern. On the open road, at a steady cruise, the R8 is surprisingly manageable. The tall gearing of the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission helps the V10 settle into a more economical state, but even then, resisting the urge to exploit its prodigious power requires considerable willpower.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi R8 RWD at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Understand that this is an estimate. Real-world fuel costs will vary depending on driving style, local fuel prices, and the actual mileage driven. However, for those considering an R8, this $3,200 figure is less a deterrent and more a cost of admission to a very exclusive club.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy will inevitably deviate. Owners who frequently indulge in spirited driving, track days, or simply short trips with a cold engine will likely see figures below the EPA estimates. Conversely, those who primarily use the R8 for longer highway journeys at moderate speeds might achieve or even slightly exceed the 25 MPG highway rating. The key takeaway is to manage expectations and understand that the R8’s fuel economy is heavily dependent on driving style and conditions. Check R8 MPG across all years to see how user-submitted data varies from the EPA’s calculations.

How it compares

The R8’s fuel economy places it squarely in line with its high-performance peers, but it’s not setting efficiency records. A comparable Porsche 911 Carrera S, while boasting a turbocharged engine, manages around 21 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GT, another front-engine GT car, also lands in the high teens. A Lamborghini Huracan, sharing a similar V10 engine architecture, displays comparable, if not slightly worse, fuel consumption. This comparison highlights a broader point: buyers in this segment are prioritizing performance and exclusivity over low fuel costs. They accept the fuel costs as the price to be paid for the unique experience these cars deliver. For a wider look at the brand, including SUVs, see all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While maximizing fuel economy might not be the primary concern of an R8 owner, there are still steps that can be taken to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment. Gentle acceleration and avoiding unnecessary hard braking are fundamental techniques that apply to any vehicle, including the R8. A measured approach to throttle application, particularly from a standstill, can significantly improve city fuel economy.

Using the R8’s drive select modes can also contribute to better fuel efficiency. Selecting “comfort” mode, if equipped, softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, keeping the engine operating in a more efficient range. While not ideal for spirited driving, comfort mode is suitable for highway cruising and slower-speed city driving where ultimate performance isn’t required.

Proper tire inflation is critical for both performance and fuel economy. Ensure that the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, as indicated on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which leads to higher fuel consumption. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially during changes in ambient temperature.

Avoid extended idling. Modern engines are designed to operate efficiently when moving, and idling for prolonged periods consumes fuel without contributing to forward progress. If you anticipate a wait of more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when ready to proceed.