The 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet 3.0L 6-cyl gets 22 MPG combined, which isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards. It’s not a Prius competitor, and it’s not meant to be. This is a high-performance, open-top sports car that delivers a visceral driving experience above all else. The buyer of this particular 911 variant prioritizes exhilaration over economy, a purchase motivated by passion far more than practicality. They accept the fuel consumption as the price of admission to a very exclusive club. It’s a cost they’ve already factored in, alongside options like deviated stitching and leather-covered vents.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the overall figure, the EPA estimates 20 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, the engine idling at lights, and the temptation to exploit the available power. The highway number, achievable on longer journeys at consistent speeds, shows that the turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six isn’t unduly stressed when cruising. However, even a relaxed highway cruise in a 911 GTS often involves a higher average speed than most cars, which naturally impacts actual fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Given the driving habits typically associated with a 911 GTS owner (weekend drives, track days, spirited backroad excursions), and the likelihood of opting for premium fuel brands, the actual figure could easily exceed this estimate. The $2,650 assumes responsible, daily driving, an assumption that almost never applies to someone who buys a GTS Cabriolet.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers in anything but ideal conditions. Real-world MPG will vary wildly depending on driving style. A lead foot will easily drop the combined MPG into the high teens. A more conservative approach, focusing on smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow, might approach the EPA figures, but even then, don’t expect miracles. The car’s digital display is handy, but focusing on the instantaneous MPG figure tends to diminish the joy of driving a 911. Enjoy the performance and accept the consequences at the pump, remembering that you could always consult with all Porsche fuel economy data to compare with other models if you feel guilty.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet’s fuel economy is neither exceptionally good nor drastically bad. The Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster, with its V8 engine, typically returns a combined MPG in the high teens. A Jaguar F-Type R Convertible, similar in performance credentials, lands in the lower 20s. Even fellow Porsche models like the Panamera, while offering more passenger space and a more relaxed drivetrain, can achieve similar MPG figures in their higher-performance trims. When looking at 911 MPG across all years, its a consistent performer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Porsche’s driving modes carefully. The “Normal” mode isn’t just a suggestion; it softens throttle response and optimizes the transmission for fuel efficiency. The temptation to always be in “Sport” or “Sport+” is strong, but reserving those modes for when you truly want to exploit the car’s performance will make a noticeable difference at the pump.

Resist the urge to accelerate aggressively from every stop. Smooth, progressive acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy. The 911 GTS has more than enough power to get up to speed quickly without burying the throttle. This requires restraint and a careful foot on the accelerator.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. This is a simple but effective way to improve your MPG.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel and contributes to emissions. Modern cars are generally efficient even when idling, but it still burns fuel unnecessarily. If you’re at a prolonged stop, cut the engine.

Plan routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and stop-and-go traffic maximizes fuel efficiency. Use navigation apps to identify the quickest and most fuel-efficient routes, even if it means taking a slightly longer path. Every stop and every hard acceleration hurts your overall fuel economy.