The 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet gets 22 MPG combined. While this isn’t the best for fuel efficiency, that number is probably not the main concern for buyers wanting open-air driving and all-wheel-drive in a well-engineered sports car. This car provides a visceral experience that makes its requirement for premium fuel understandable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet gets 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the car’s ability to provide both comfortable cruising on the open road and quick acceleration with its 450 horsepower for driving around town. The 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, paired with Porsche’s quick-shifting 7-speed PDK automatic transmission (AM-S7), focuses on performance rather than maximum efficiency. Stop-and-go traffic will reduce the city MPG, while a steady speed on the highway can get close to the EPA’s estimate if the driver avoids using all the available power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet is $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline when calculated. Individual fuel costs will change depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven. Given the performance and the typical buyer of this vehicle, this annual fuel bill is part of the cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a starting point, the actual gas mileage for the 2019 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet will likely vary. Driving hard, accelerating quickly, and often using the Sport or Sport Plus modes will lower fuel efficiency. In contrast, driving more carefully and using the car’s automatic start/stop at red lights can increase fuel economy nearer to the EPA estimates. A driver who often uses the 911’s performance should expect numbers slightly below the official ratings. Someone who values comfort and enjoys longer drives might see slightly better results. In the end, emotion is more important than saving gas for most owners.

How it compares

The 2019 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet’s fuel economy is normal compared to other high-performance convertibles. The BMW M4 Convertible gets about 19 MPG combined, and the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet gets around 19 MPG as well. The Audi R8 Spyder, with its V10 engine, does worse, with only about 16 MPG combined. More fuel-efficient convertibles are available such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata at 30 MPG combined, but they are very different and in another market segment. Buyers looking at the 911 are not comparing it with economy cars; they want a mix of performance, luxury, and history. See 911 MPG across all years for a wider look at Porsche’s sports car.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Try to avoid using the car’s full power too often. While it’s tempting to enjoy the fast acceleration, smooth throttle inputs will help fuel economy, mostly when driving in the city. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid braking hard if possible.

Be sure to use the car’s driving modes. Selecting “Normal” mode will change the engine and transmission to be more fuel efficient. The car’s start/stop system can save fuel when idling, but some drivers may not like it. Try it out to see if it works for your driving.

Make sure your tires have the correct pressure. Tires with low pressure increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and keep it at the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb. Be sure you are also using the correct high-performance tires designated by Porsche.

Think about the conditions. Driving with the top down increases aerodynamic drag, slightly reducing fuel economy. Keeping the top closed can help improve gas mileage a bit, especially on longer drives.

Keep the car properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other maintenance ensure the engine runs well and efficiently. See the owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule and don’t skip preventative care. Browse all Porsche fuel economy data to see trends across the brand.