15 MPG combined is what you get with the Audi RS Q8. If you’re spending six figures for this SUV that performs like a sports car, good gas mileage probably isn’t your main concern. This machine is built to cover miles quickly and outrun sports cars from a stop, and burns a lot of fuel in the process. The buyer knows they’re paying for a turbocharged V8 engine wrapped in luxury and advanced technology, not fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The RS Q8’s EPA-estimated figures are 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects how much gas the engine uses when accelerating its 5,490-pound weight from a standstill repeatedly. The constant stopping and starting in urban driving keeps the turbos working and the engine using a lot of fuel. The 19 MPG highway rating shows the benefits of driving at a steady speed. The engine can relax, even though quick acceleration is always available with a downshift from the eight-speed automatic. The Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system improves handling and traction, but it also increases driveline losses, which affects fuel economy in both city and highway driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the Audi RS Q8 at $3,850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. It also uses the EPA’s assumed fuel price, which is based on the national average. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, local fuel prices, and the fuel you use. This is still a high fuel bill that owners should know about.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard for fuel economy, but real-world MPG is often different. With the RS Q8, getting the EPA’s 19 MPG highway figure is possible on long, steady trips. If you drive fast, take frequent short trips, or idle a lot, fuel economy will decrease. Owners who often use the engine’s power can expect single-digit MPG. By prioritizing conservative driving, it’s possible to get low teens MPG. Ultimately, how you drive determines fuel consumption with this car.

How it compares

The RS Q8 is a high-performance SUV, and its fuel economy shows this. The BMW X6 M, a similar SUV with a powerful engine, gets around 15 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe gets 15 MPG combined. These competitors have similar fuel economy, performance numbers, and target customers. These buyers are not interested in more fuel-efficient vehicles from the all Audi fuel economy data listings. For these customers, small MPG differences are less important than styling, brand, and performance. If you are concerned about the lower end of RS MPG across all years, the SQ8 with a smaller engine and improved fuel economy might be a better choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The RS Q8 isn’t built for saving gas, but you can try to get every mile per gallon possible. First, don’t always use full throttle and enjoy the 4.0-liter V8’s power. Slow acceleration and anticipating traffic can reduce fuel use.

Select “Efficiency” mode in the Audi Drive Select system. This changes the engine and transmission settings to save fuel. It reduces throttle response, but works well for highway driving or when you don’t need as much power.

Make sure your tires have the right amount of air based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Low tire pressure makes the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes.

Reduce idling. The RS Q8 burns a lot of fuel when idling. Avoid long periods of idling, especially when the engine is cold.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. While it might not make a big difference, every pound saved helps efficiency. Removing unnecessary items from the trunk can help a little.