24 MPG combined is not going to win the 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet any green awards, but that’s not the point. This car is about open-air thrills, a visceral connection to the road, and performance that redefines what a sports car can do. The fuel economy is simply a trade-off accepted, and often overlooked, by the enthusiast who prioritizes the experience above all else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 911 Carrera S Cabriolet at 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures are achieved thanks to the 3.0L twin-turbo flat-six engine and the responsive 7-speed PDK automatic transmission (AM-S7). While 22 MPG in the city might seem low compared to a hybrid or even a modern sedan, this isn’t just a car. It’s a high-performance machine designed for exhilarating acceleration and cornering, and that demands fuel. The 28 MPG highway figure is more respectable, indicating that the 911 can be reasonably efficient on longer cruises when you’re not constantly using the power.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet is estimated at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is required for optimal performance and engine life, so this number can fluctuate based on prevailing gas prices and your driving habits. If you accelerate hard or drive a lot in the city, expect to spend more than this estimate. If you primarily drive on the highway and focus on maximizing efficiency, you might spend a little less. Saving money on fuel is probably not the top priority for most 911 cabriolet drivers.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a good starting point, but what can you expect in the real world? Owners often report slightly lower MPG, especially in mixed driving conditions. People can’t resist the 911’s exhilarating acceleration, and consistently using the turbocharged power will definitely impact fuel consumption. Drive gently, and you’ll likely be closer to the EPA estimates. If you frequently drive hard, expect to see numbers closer to the high teens or low twenties. Driving style and location will significantly impact this. Learn more about 911 MPG across all years.

How it compares

In the world of high-performance convertibles, the 2019 911 Carrera S Cabriolet stacks up in an interesting way. The BMW M4 Convertible achieves a slightly lower combined MPG of 20. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet, with its powerful V8, is even thirstier, managing only around 18 MPG combined. The nimble Audi R8 Spyder reports closer to 16 MPG combined. So, while fuel economy isn’t a strong suit, it’s not significantly worse than its direct competitors, and in some cases, it’s better. Buyers looking at all Porsche fuel economy data will see this as a benefit of the model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be important, there are still ways to get more miles out of each tank in your 911. Gentle acceleration is key. The twin-turbo engine delivers a surge of power when you step on it, but smooth, progressive throttle inputs will reduce fuel consumption significantly. Avoid unnecessary hard stops and starts.

Use the Porsche’s driving modes to your advantage. The “Normal” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by optimizing engine mapping and transmission behavior. It might not be as engaging as the “Sport” or “Sport Plus” modes, but it’s a practical choice for everyday commuting and highway cruising. Selecting the right drive mode for the right situation can affect fuel economy.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended settings in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. The 911 handles its best when the tires are properly inflated.

Minimize aerodynamic drag by removing any unnecessary items from the car. If you are not using the roof rack, remove it. Although the 911’s aerodynamics are optimized for performance, small changes can make a difference, especially at higher speeds. Less weight also helps with driving engagement.