23 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2019 Audi TT RS any fuel economy awards, but that’s hardly the point of this fire-breathing little coupe. This is a machine designed for backroad blasts and track days, not hypermiling. The person buying a TT RS is prioritizing performance over saving money, understanding that the exhilarating 400 horsepower and razor-sharp handling come with a corresponding thirst for premium fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Audi TT RS at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That split reflects the realities of its powertrain. In urban environments, with frequent stops and starts, the 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine isn’t operating at its most efficient. The stop/start system helps marginally, but the need to accelerate quickly eats into fuel savings. On the open road, however, the TT RS settles into a more relaxed rhythm. The seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission keeps the engine in its sweet spot, allowing for decent highway cruising efficiency. While 28 MPG isn’t stellar, it demonstrates that the TT RS can be tolerable on longer journeys, provided you resist the temptation to put your foot down.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Audi TT RS is estimated at exactly $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices for premium unleaded gasoline. It’s important to remember this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically travel, and the fluctuating price of gasoline. Someone who primarily uses their TT RS for weekend drives will likely spend less, while someone who daily commutes in heavy traffic will likely exceed this figure. This $2,500 should be viewed as a benchmark for what to expect, not a guaranteed cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a baseline, real-world MPG for the 2019 TT RS can vary considerably. Owners report numbers ranging from the high teens to the low 30s, depending on driving style and conditions. Those who frequently engage the car’s launch control, spend lots of time in Sport mode, or participate in track days will inevitably see their fuel economy plummet. Conversely, those who drive conservatively on the highway, making full use of the cruise control and anticipating traffic flow, may find themselves exceeding the EPA highway estimate somewhat. Weather conditions, tire pressure, and even the specific blend of gasoline used can all have a noticeable impact. Explore TT MPG across all years to compare.

How it compares

The 2019 Audi TT RS doesn’t have many direct competitors, thanks to its unique combination of performance, size, and five-cylinder engine. However, those considering a high-performance coupe might also look at the BMW M2 Competition, which delivers around 20 MPG combined. The Porsche 718 Cayman S, a well-known benchmark, offers slightly better fuel economy, around 22 MPG combined, but lacks the TT RS’s standard all-wheel drive. Even the less powerful Audi TTS, while not as thrilling, manages around 26 MPG combined. The all-wheel drive system’s added grip adds weight and drivetrain loss, contributing to the TT RS’s lower fuel economy when compared to rear-wheel drive alternatives. These fuel economy differences are important to the buyer considering the trade-offs for performance and handling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to bury the throttle at every opportunity. The TT RS is immensely tempting, but smooth and deliberate acceleration will significantly improve your fuel economy. The engine’s prodigious torque means you don’t need to constantly rev it to extract performance. Drive it smoothly when you can.
 
Experiment with different driving modes. The Audi Drive Select system allows you to tailor the car’s settings to your preferences. Selecting “Comfort” mode will soften throttle response and shift patterns, promoting a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience. “Auto” mode attempts to find a balance.
 
Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the door jamb.
 
Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo needlessly increases the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items from your car that you don’t need, especially heavy objects in the trunk.
 
Plan your routes carefully to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Constant accelerating and braking are detrimental to fuel economy. Opt for routes with fewer traffic lights and less congestion. Consider exploring all all Audi fuel economy data.