20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but it’s what you can expect with the 2025 Audi RS 5 Sportback. This isn’t a car purchased for saving money at the pump; it’s a statement. It’s for the driver who wants blistering acceleration, head-turning style, and undeniable German engineering, and who’s willing to pay more for fuel to get it all. The RS 5 Sportback is for a specific kind of enthusiast: one who values performance and practicality, and who sees fuel efficiency as less important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2025 Audi RS 5 Sportback put city driving at 18 MPG and highway driving at 25 MPG. These figures show the trade-off between performance and efficiency. The 2.9L twin-turbo V6 requires fuel to generate its 444 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The stop-and-go nature of city driving, with frequent acceleration and braking, naturally increases fuel consumption. On the open road, the RS 5’s long-legged gearing and refined aerodynamics allow for slightly better fuel consumption, but the temptation to exploit its power will always be present.

Realistic highway MPG depends heavily on driving style. A relaxed cruise at legal speeds will be close to the EPA estimates, while more aggressive driving will lower those figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Audi RS 5 Sportback is $2,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using current national average fuel prices. This number shows the RS 5’s fuel demand and should be factored into the overall cost of ownership. The price tag of the car itself is high, and the yearly fuel bill reinforces the reality of owning a high-performance vehicle. It’s a trade-off the RS 5 buyer probably expects.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, but real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, traffic conditions, and even weather. Expect numbers that fluctuate around the EPA estimates, perhaps lower in the city during rush hour, and potentially higher on long highway trips with consistent speeds. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of Sport mode, and even carrying extra weight in the vehicle will all negatively impact fuel consumption. The RS 5 Sportback is engineered for performance, and driving it that way will reduce its efficiency. Buyers seeking lower fuel costs should consider other vehicles; the RS 5 owner wants driving pleasure.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the RS 5 Sportback’s fuel economy is in the expected range for its performance bracket. The BMW M3 Competition, for instance, achieves a similar 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG C 43 Sedan nets around 19 MPG combined. These vehicles offer comparable levels of performance, and their fuel consumption reflects this.

The Porsche Panamera 4S, although in a slightly higher price bracket offers similar performance to the RS 5 Sportback with EPA estimates around 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The key point is that buyers considering the RS 5 prioritize performance and driving dynamics over absolute fuel efficiency. Small differences in MPG are unlikely to sway their decision; factors like styling, handling, and brand prestige carry more weight. For those desiring better fuel efficiency, browsing all Audi fuel economy data is an alternative for the German manufacturer. If you’re focused on what MPG numbers Audis have boasted over the years, you can find RS MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Using the RS 5’s Eco drive mode can soften throttle response and optimize transmission settings for better fuel consumption. It won’t transform the car into a hybrid, but it can make a difference during everyday commuting, especially when avoiding aggressive acceleration. Use Eco mode in slow traffic to improve fuel economy.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which you can find on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. This is a simple maintenance task that can yield results in your fuel economy.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, switch off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently. Prolonged idling wastes fuel and contributes to pollution.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden braking and acceleration. Smooth, consistent driving is key to maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, and the RS 5 Sportback is no exception. Drive cautiously, keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, and try to maintain a steady speed.

Minimize the use of accessories like air conditioning, especially during shorter journeys. The air conditioning compressor places an extra load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. When not absolutely necessary, open a window instead to save fuel.