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Audi R8 Coupe (2015-2023) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2 out of 52.0

Written by Murray Scullion Updated: 27 June 2024

Miles per pound (mpp)

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only, and typical current fuel or electricity costs.
Petrol engines 2.8 - 3.3 mpp
What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only.
Petrol engines 18.8 - 22.4 mpg
View mpg & specs for any version
  • Only one engine to choose from
  • Thirstier than its key rivals
  • Servicing and consumables also pricey

What are the running costs?

If you need to ask how much it costs to run a 5.2-litre V10, you probably can’t afford it. Both the Mercedes-AMG GT and Porsche 911 are more economical.

Measures employed to cut fuel bills include a coasting function for the gearbox (where it disconnects from the engine when not in use) and stop/start. It’s still a huge petrol engine though, and such techniques can only achieve so much.

There was only one engine to choose, but it came with two states of tune depending on if you opted for RWD or 4WD.

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Audi R8 badge
The R8 can be more economical than its rivals, but it’s still a thirsty machine.

The official WLTP for the RWD model (with less power) is 22.2-22.4mpg, while the more powerful 4WD cars get a rating of 21.6-21.7mpg. 

On an 80-mile motorway schlep in a RWD model, we actually beat the WLTP rating and achieved 26mpg. It’s worth remembering we’ve seen more like 15mpg on spirited drives though. The GT edition struggled to match that though, with 15 on a cruise and into the single digits after a real blast in it.

Servicing and warranty

The R8 came with a two-year unlimited-mileage warranty, which was enhanced to a three-year warranty (with a 60,000-mile limit in the third year). It was also possible to upgrade to a four or five-year warranty.

Servicing is expensive, but can be carried out at any Audi dealership nationwide.

Reliability

  • Impressive levels of build quality
  • Components used elsewhere by Audi
  • Has been subject to a recall

There isn’t much to worry about here. Audi R8 reliability should be on par with any of its rivals – if not better. The main engine and gearbox components have been used before so they’re tried-and-tested, while the interior feels robust and of an extremely high quality.

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Audi R8 wheels
Reliability has always been an R8 strong point.

That said, the solitary recall that the R8 has been subjected to involved a potential oil leak with a gearbox component.

Owners’ forums are regularly filled with minor complaints against rattles and minor niggles.

Ongoing running costs

Road tax £600 - £735
Insurance group 50
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