A combined fuel economy rating of 17 MPG isn’t going to be the deciding factor for anyone considering the 2023 Audi R8 GT RWD with its howling 5.2L V10. This is a car purchased for visceral thrills, for theater, for the kind of unadulterated driving experience fading from the modern automotive world. The R8 GT is a statement, an indulgence, and its fuel consumption is simply the cost of admission to a very exclusive club.

City and highway performance

Those 17 miles per gallon are derived from EPA estimates of 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The disparity highlights the R8’s weakness: stop-and-go driving. Its naturally aspirated V10 is not optimized for efficiency at low speeds, and the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (AM-S7) can sometimes feel hesitant in urban environments. Highway driving, however, better suits the R8’s character. A steady cruise allows the engine to settle into a more efficient range, and the aerodynamic bodywork contributes to reduced drag. But let’s be honest, few R8 owners spend much time cruising at steady speeds. The allure of downshifting and experiencing the V10’s explosive acceleration is usually too strong to resist.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Audi R8 GT RWD at $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. It’s important to recognize that this is merely an estimate. How and where the R8 is driven will dramatically affect the actual fuel expenses. Someone who uses the car primarily for weekend track days or spirited canyon runs will likely exceed this estimate significantly. Conversely, an owner who lives in a rural area with minimal traffic and consistently drives at moderate speeds might find their fuel costs closer to the EPA figure.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers. Real-world fuel economy in the R8 GT is highly dependent on driving style. Treat it like a grocery getter, and you might see numbers approaching, or even briefly exceeding, the EPA highway estimate. But the moment you begin to exploit even a fraction of its performance potential, fuel economy will plummet. Expect to see averages in the low teens, and potentially single digits when driven aggressively. This is a car that begs to be driven hard, and few owners will be able to resist its siren call. Check out all Audi fuel economy data to see how it compares across the whole model range. Owners should budget accordingly, as frequent trips to the gas station will be a reality of R8 GT ownership.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars, the R8 GT’s fuel economy is generally in the same ballpark. A Porsche 911 Turbo S, while offering similar levels of performance, manages a slightly better 17 MPG city / 23 MPG highway. The Lamborghini Huracan STO, which shares its engine platform with the R8, achieves similar figures as well, further suggesting that the 5.2L V10 configuration itself contributes heavily to fuel consumption. This slightly improved efficiency of cars like the 911 Turbo S might sway potential R8 GT buyers who truly prioritize efficiency, but for most buyers, the unique character and sound of the R8’s naturally aspirated engine outweigh any marginal fuel savings. You can also compare R8 MPG across all years for more context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While maximizing fuel economy might not be a top priority for R8 GT owners, there are still a few steps that can be taken to minimize fuel consumption during normal driving. Avoid excessively aggressive acceleration and braking, as these habits will quickly drain the fuel tank. Smooth, deliberate inputs are key to maintaining efficiency, even with a high-performance machine.

Use the R8’s driving modes effectively. The “Comfort” mode, if equipped, will soften throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, resulting in less gas consumption. While it might diminish the car’s sporting character, it can be useful for mundane commutes or long highway stretches where performance is not important.

Keep the tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regularly check tire pressures and maintain them at the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual. This simple measure can improve both fuel economy and tire life.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This is especially relevant in urban environments where traffic congestion is common.