16 MPG combined is likely irrelevant for the 2021 Audi R8 Spyder. This isn’t a car purchased to save fuel. It’s a statement. An occasion. It’s possibly the last of its kind, a naturally aspirated V10 supercar that values visceral thrills over hybrid fuel efficiency. The R8 Spyder buyer wants a specific experience, measured in decibels and G-forces, not miles per gallon. They understand the compromise, and they accept it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 13 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go driving with the R8’s 5.2L V10. Holding revs low to conserve fuel feels unnatural in a car designed to be driven hard, so most owners will likely see numbers near the EPA’s estimate, or even lower. The 20 MPG highway rating suggests some cruising capability, but even on the open road, the temptation to open up the V10 will impact fuel efficiency. Expect the MPG to drop when using the higher end of the tachometer.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2021 Audi R8 Spyder. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Given the R8’s premium fuel requirement and the chance that most owners won’t stick to an “average” driving profile, expect to exceed this estimate. The $3,600 is a baseline, but this depends on driving habits and local fuel costs. More information about all Audi fuel economy data is available on FuelEconomyHub.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the R8 Spyder varies. Owners who drive in urban environments with traffic or drive aggressively should expect results at the lower end of the EPA’s range, or even below. Drivers who primarily use the R8 for highway cruises, with a gentle throttle, might achieve numbers closer to or slightly above the 20 MPG highway estimate. Achieving the EPA’s numbers consistently would require restraint, given the car’s nature and the desire to hear the V10.

See the R8 MPG across all years.

How it compares

The R8’s fuel economy is predictably low compared to competitors. The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, while powerful, manages 17 MPG combined thanks to its turbocharged engine. The Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spyder, which shares its platform with the R8, offers similar efficiency, at 15 MPG combined. High-performance SUVs like the BMW X5 M (15 MPG combined) achieve similar or better fuel economy. These vehicles offer performance, but don’t replicate the naturally aspirated experience of the R8. The R8 buyer understands this trade-off and values the character of Audi’s V10 engine even at the expense of fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Fuel efficiency is unlikely to be a primary concern for R8 Spyder owners, but some strategies can help improve MPG within its limitations. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, especially in city driving. The R8’s engine consumes fuel during rapid acceleration, so a smoother driving style can lead to gains.

Use the car’s drive select modes. “Dynamic” mode unleashes the V10, but “Comfort” or “Auto” modes will soften throttle response and optimize the transmission, reducing fuel consumption slightly. These modes are helpful on highway cruises where maximum performance isn’t needed.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure to minimize drag and improve efficiency. This is important given the R8’s performance.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo adds weight, which increases fuel consumption. Remove unnecessary items from the car to improve efficiency.