The 2018 Audi RS 3 2.5L 5-cyl gets 22 MPG combined. This figure won’t earn any green car awards, and prospective owners likely knew this beforehand. The RS 3 isn’t about sipping fuel, it’s about rapid acceleration, a unique five-cylinder sound, and stable handling in any weather. Buyers aren’t considering Priuses, they’re looking for a compact performance sedan that excels on backroads and performs well on a track, even if it means frequent gas station visits.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the RS 3 will achieve 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharger frequently engages and the all-wheel-drive system constantly manages power. The highway figure is more optimistic, but achievable if you resist using the engine’s power to its full potential. Few RS 3 owners buy the car for long, leisurely highway cruises. More likely they’re using it to quickly merge onto on-ramps.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Audi RS 3 at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required for optimal performance, raising the cost. Whether $2,650 is acceptable depends on your priorities and budget. For some, it’s a small amount compared to the cost of owning a performance vehicle, but for others, it’s a reminder that performance has a price.

Real-world expectations

Reaching the EPA numbers requires careful driving. Heavy acceleration, frequent use of “Dynamic” mode, and spirited driving will result in lower MPG numbers. Expect the combined MPG to be closer to 18-20 MPG if you regularly use the engine’s full capabilities. If you drive gently and stick to “Comfort” mode, the highway number might approach 30 MPG, but doing so defeats the purpose of owning an RS 3. Most owners see fuel expenses as one of the many costs of ownership.

How it compares

The RS 3’s fuel economy is what you’d expect for a compact performance sedan with all-wheel drive. The BMW M2 (no longer in production for 2018), with its inline-six and rear-wheel drive, was rated at 20 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, a direct competitor with a turbocharged four-cylinder and all-wheel drive, achieved 25 MPG combined. The now defunct Ford Focus RS managed only 19MPG with the manual transmission. This shows a clear point, if lower fuel costs are a primary concern, there are better choices. Buyers considering an RS 3 prioritize performance and exclusivity over maximizing MPGs. You can see all Audi fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to floor the accelerator. The RS 3’s turbocharger responds quickly, making it easy to use its power. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic will improve fuel consumption.

Use the “Comfort” or “Auto” driving mode for everyday commuting. These modes reduce throttle response and shift points, optimizing for efficiency rather than maximum performance. Save “Dynamic” mode for weekend drives or when you need the extra responsiveness.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which affects fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended PSI found on the doorjamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk adds weight, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove items you don’t need to improve efficiency.

Consider a less aggressive driving style. Smooth driving is more efficient than jerky acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid unnecessary lane changes.