17 MPG combined. Let’s be honest, no one buys a 2021 Audi R8 Spyder 2WD expecting Prius-like efficiency. This car is a statement, a visceral experience delivered by a screaming V10 engine and open-air thrills. Fuel economy is simply the admission price to that exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The R8 Spyder’s EPA ratings break down to 14 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the large displacement engine and performance-oriented tuning take their toll. The highway number is more palatable and achievable during steady-state cruising, but even then, resisting the urge to exploit the engine’s power reserves will be a challenge. That seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (AM-S7) helps optimize fuel use on the open road, but its main mission is maximizing acceleration, not saving fuel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 for the 2021 Audi R8 Spyder. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. It also factors in the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which is the only fuel this engine will tolerate. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often you decide to unleash the V10’s full potential. For R8 owners, an extra few hundred dollars a year in fuel costs is unlikely to be a major concern.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the R8 Spyder is highly dependent on driving style. Someone who uses the car primarily for weekend cruises and spirited backroad drives will likely see figures lower than the EPA estimates. Conversely, someone who uses the car primarily for commuting on the highway, and practices smooth acceleration and anticipation, might just achieve the 23 MPG highway figure. The allure of that V10 soundtrack and the car’s inherent quickness will tempt even the most conscientious drivers to occasionally indulge in some spirited driving. For more details, check out R8 MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance convertibles, the R8 Spyder’s fuel economy isn’t exactly class-leading, but it’s not the worst either. The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, for example, delivers a slightly superior 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder, another V10-powered Italian exotic, comes in at a similar 13 MPG city and 18 MPG highway. These comparisons matter because buyers in this segment are often cross-shopping these models, even if fuel economy isn’t their primary decision factor. They want to know where the R8 Spyder sits within its competitive set. Explore all Audi fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive acceleration. The R8’s V10 loves to rev, but every full-throttle blast significantly impacts fuel consumption. Smooth, progressive acceleration will save you fuel and still deliver impressive performance.

Anticipate traffic flow. Avoiding unnecessary braking and acceleration is key to maximizing efficiency. Scan the road ahead and anticipate changes in traffic speed to minimize wasted energy.

Proper tire inflation is critical for optimal fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway will help you achieve the best possible fuel economy. Cruise control can help you avoid unintentional speed fluctuations that waste fuel.

Consider using the “comfort” or “economy” driving mode, if equipped. These modes typically remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright performance. While it might slightly reduce the car’s responsiveness, it can make a difference during everyday driving.