For most buyers of the 2019 Porsche 911 Targa 4S, 24 MPG combined is likely an afterthought, if it registers at all. This isn’t a car purchased for saving fuel. It’s a statement, an experience, a performance icon with a roof that elegantly disappears at the touch of a button. The kind of person who prioritizes open-air thrills and the characteristic sound of a flat-six engine over fuel efficiency is exactly the kind of person behind the wheel of this particular 911 variant. They understand the trade-off and accept it willingly.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Porsche 911 Targa 4S at 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. These figures are achieved thanks to the 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-six engine and the quick-shifting 7-speed PDK automatic transmission (listed by the EPA as AM-S7). The all-wheel-drive system, while contributing to immense grip and confident handling in any weather, also adds weight and complexity that impacts fuel consumption. The highway number is reasonable for a car of this performance caliber, but the city MPG reflects the engine’s eagerness to deliver power, even under light throttle. The car encourages spirited driving, and that will inevitably affect your fuel consumption around town.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for operating a 2019 Porsche 911 Targa 4S at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. Your personal fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fluctuations in fuel prices. However, this $2,400 provides a useful benchmark for budgeting and helps buyers understand the fuel implications of owning a high-performance vehicle like the Targa 4S.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently push the Porsche’s performance will see numbers closer to the city estimate, no matter where they drive. Conversely, those who primarily use the Targa 4S for longer, more relaxed journeys on the open road might achieve slightly better than the 27 MPG highway rating. Factors such as traffic congestion, ambient temperature, and even tire pressure can also influence your fuel consumption. Consider the EPA numbers a guideline, and adjust your expectations based on your individual driving style and environment.

How it compares

Other cars in this performance segment show similar economy. The Jaguar F-Type R Coupe with all-wheel drive delivers around 18 MPG combined, and the BMW M4 Convertible is rated at 19 MPG combined. The Audi R8 V10 Coupe fares even worse, at an EPA-rated 15 MPG combined. Even Porsche’s own Cayman GTS, with its smaller footprint and less complex drivetrain, only manages 22 MPG combined. The slightly better 911 MPG across all years reflects Porsche’s commitment to balancing performance with relative efficiency. Buyers considering a car like the Targa 4S are less focused on squeezing every last mile from a gallon and are more concerned with the overall driving experience. See all Porsche fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay close attention to your tire pressures. Maintaining the recommended pressures, which you can find on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb, reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel economy without negatively impacting handling or ride quality. The Targa 4S’s all-wheel-drive system also benefits from properly inflated tires for optimal performance and efficiency.

Use the car’s drive modes intelligently. The Targa 4S typically features a “Normal” or “Eco” mode that optimizes engine and transmission settings for efficiency. While it may reduce the car’s responsiveness, using this mode during routine commuting can noticeably reduce fuel consumption without drastically altering the driving experience.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. The PDK transmission is adept at selecting the optimal gear, but abrupt changes in speed put extra strain on the engine and consume more fuel. Smooth, controlled driving is key to maximizing efficiency in any vehicle, and particularly in a high-performance one.

Minimize idling. Modern engines, including the Targa 4S’s flat-six, are designed to be efficient and don’t require extended warm-up periods. Avoid idling for more than a minute or two, as it wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions. Turn the engine off if you anticipate a longer wait.

Consider using premium fuel. While not strictly required, using the highest octane fuel recommended in your owner’s manual can ensure the engine runs at its peak efficiency and delivers optimal performance. It can improve the overall driving experience and help protect the engine from potential damage caused by detonation, even though the efficiency gains may be small.