23 MPG combined is hardly the reason anyone buys a 2022 Audi TT RS Coupe. It’s not a sensible commuter car, it’s a focused performance machine with a charismatic five-cylinder engine and razor-sharp handling. The people signing the papers for a TT RS are prioritizing thrills over trips to the gas station, understanding that performance comes with a price.

City and highway performance

The TT RS delivers 20 MPG in the city. Stop-and-go driving, even with the automatic transmission’s best efforts, takes its toll. The engine needs a lot of fuel as it surges through city streets with enthusiasm. On the open highway, that number climbs to 29 MPG, reflecting the engine’s ability to settle into a more efficient cruise, although the temptation to exploit its power is ever-present. This is a car that begs to be driven hard, and resisting that urge to save fuel requires restraint.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Audi TT RS at $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 price at the time of calculation. Your own cost can vary significantly depending on your driving style, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and prevailing fuel prices. Treat this $2,500 figure as a benchmark, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy for the TT RS often falls short of the official figures. The car’s performance encourages aggressive driving, leading to lower mpg. Expect numbers closer to 18 MPG in the city if you enjoy the surge of torque, and around 26 MPG on the highway if you are maintaining a brisk but sustainable pace. The biggest variable will be how frequently you use the throttle to experience the five-cylinder growl, and the time you spend at driving events or track days.

How it compares

Compared to other performance coupes, the TT RS lands in the middle for fuel economy. The Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0, with its naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine, achieves a combined 20 MPG. The BMW M2 Competition, previously available with a manual transmission, hits 20 MPG combined. All Audi fuel economy data shows that the TT RS is not on the list of the most fuel-efficient vehicles.

Buyers looking for higher fuel economy may want to consider the four-cylinder TT, and you can view the TT MPG across all years for more details. The 5-cylinder’s unique character, sound, and power delivery creates a vehicle that does not have a direct competitor.

Tips to maximize efficiency

First, moderate your acceleration. The TT RS is responsive, but every hard launch saps fuel. Smooth inputs will help you maintain better MPG.

Second, anticipate traffic flow. Avoid sudden braking by looking ahead and planning your moves. This lowers fuel consumption and improves driving smoothness.

Third, ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which results in lower fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and keep them at the recommended levels.

Fourth, minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, saving fuel.

Fifth, consider using the Audi Drive Select system, if equipped, to choose a more fuel-efficient driving mode. It won’t turn the TT RS into a hybrid, but it can subtly adjust the engine and transmission settings for better economy.