16 MPG combined is a stark reality for the 2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for frugality, it’s a statement. It’s a hammer, not a scalpel. The buyers aren’t cross-shopping Prius trims. They are seeking brutal acceleration, imposing presence, and the cachet of the four rings, accepting the fuel costs as a necessary toll for entry into this exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure speaks to the constant stop-and-go nature of urban environments, where the RS Q8’s massive engine repeatedly fights inertia to haul its considerable weight. The highway number, while better, still reflects the aerodynamic profile of a performance SUV battling wind resistance at higher speeds. Don’t expect to see much better than 20 unless you’re actively trying to hypermile, an activity contrary to the very spirit of this machine. These values are not unexpected, they reflect the immense power output and the vehicle’s inherent design as much as they reflect anything “wrong” with the powertrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance. This figure presupposes driving 15,000 miles per year and using current national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which this engine demands. For many RS Q8 buyers, this cost is negligible. They are more concerned with performance, exclusivity, and the experience this SUV provides. However, even within this demographic, it’s useful to understand the financial commitment that comes with owning such a powerful machine.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the RS Q8 Performance will likely vary depending on driving style and conditions. Aggressive driving with frequent acceleration, especially in Sport or RS modes, will push fuel consumption well below the EPA estimates. Conversely, a deliberate and gentle approach, combined with mostly highway driving, might yield results closer to, or even slightly above, the 20 MPG highway rating. Expect to visit the fuel pump frequently, especially if you’re actually using the car as intended, as those who buy this car rarely drive it gently.

How it compares

The Lamborghini Urus, which shares a platform and engine architecture with the RS Q8, achieves a similar EPA rating of 14 MPG combined. The BMW X5 M Competition, a direct competitor, manages a slightly better 15 MPG combined. Even the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, known for its performance prowess, lands around 15 MPG combined.

While none of these vehicles are paragons of fuel efficiency, the RS Q8’s numbers represent a realistic expectation within its competitive set. You can browse all Audi fuel economy data to contextualize this model against the broader Audi lineup, or specifically into RS MPG across all years to see how performance variants measure up.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the RS Q8 Performance isn’t designed for optimal fuel efficiency, there are steps you can take to minimize consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and heavy braking. This is particularly important given the engine’s eagerness to provide instant power. Gentle throttle inputs will make a difference, even if it means momentarily sacrificing some of that addictive thrust.

Use the Audi Drive Select system to choose Efficiency mode when appropriate, particularly during highway cruising. This mode optimizes various systems for fuel economy, including throttle response and transmission behavior. It will dull the experience, but will yield marginally higher MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, negatively impacting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the door jamb sticker. Also, consider using the factory-specified tire compound, as alternative tires, especially summer performance tires, may have higher rolling resistance.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to idle efficiently, but prolonged idling still consumes fuel unnecessarily. Turn off the engine if you anticipate remaining stationary for more than a minute. Every little bit helps, even if marginally, to reduce those frequent fuel station visits.

Lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to reduce weight. While the RS Q8 Performance is built to handle strong capacity for substantial loads, every pound adds to fuel consumption, however slightly. A cleaner, lighter car will always be more efficient.