17 MPG combined. Nobody buys a rear-wheel-drive, naturally-aspirated 5.2L V10 Audi R8 Coupe expecting Prius-like fuel efficiency. This figure is almost a badge of honor, a declaration that priorities lie elsewhere, specifically with the visceral thrill of a high-revving, mid-engine supercar. Fuel economy is simply the price of admission to a very exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 14 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the R8’s natural habitat: short bursts of acceleration followed by stop-and-go traffic, conditions hardly conducive to maximizing fuel efficiency with a 10-cylinder engine. The highway figure, while better, is still a reminder that this isn’t a grand tourer designed for cross-country comfort. It’s a precision instrument, happiest when carving apexes rather than cruising at steady speeds. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (AM-S7) certainly contributes to the overall efficiency, but its primary focus remains lightning-fast shifts and optimal power delivery, not maximizing mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Audi R8 Coupe RWD at $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city driving and 45% highway driving, using the national average fuel prices. While this number might seem alarming to some, consider the context. Anyone capable of affording the R8’s six-figure price tag likely isn’t overly concerned with fluctuations at the gas pump. It’s a cost factored into the overall ownership experience, similar to high insurance premiums, expensive maintenance, and the temptation to replace tires more frequently than necessary.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but real-world MPG often varies. Drive the R8 as intended, with spirited acceleration and frequent use of its prodigious power, and expect numbers closer to the city figure, even on longer drives. Treat the throttle with respect, and the highway figure becomes achievable, but resisting the urge to unleash the V10 is a constant battle. Fuel economy takes a distant back seat to the joy of experiencing the R8’s performance capabilities. Most owners are far more concerned with lap times than MPG figures.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance machines, the R8’s fuel economy paints an interesting picture. A Porsche 911 Carrera S, while not as overtly dramatic, achieves around 21 MPG combined. A Chevrolet Corvette Stingray manages around 19 MPG combined, proving that even American muscle cars can be relatively efficient. The Lamborghini Huracan, sharing its engine architecture with the R8, sees similar fuel economy numbers. This reinforces the understanding that the R8 owner is making a conscious choice: superior engine sound and supercar drama over outright fuel savings. Check all Audi fuel economy data to see how the R8 compares to its siblings. Or check R8 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel efficiency might not be the primary concern for R8 owners, there are still steps to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, gradual inputs will keep the engine operating in its most efficient range and minimize unnecessary fuel burn.

Use the R8’s selectable drive modes strategically. The “comfort” or “auto” modes will provide a less aggressive throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, helping to improve fuel economy during relaxed driving. Remember, these modes somewhat tame the R8’s wild spirit.

Ensure that the R8’s tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels for optimal efficiency and handling.

Minimize idling. Allowing the engine to idle for extended periods wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engine start/stop systems handle this automatically, but only in certain drive modes.

Consider the weight of the car. While you can’t fundamentally change the R8’s construction, avoid carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or passenger compartment. Every pound adds to the load the engine must overcome, impacting fuel consumption, even slightly.