The 2020 Porsche Boxster S offers open-air thrills, but it comes at a cost of 22 MPG combined. Most drivers who choose this car prioritize its sharp handling, potent mid-mounted engine, and the Porsche name. Few Boxster S buyers consider hybrids. They want performance, and accept that fuel efficiency is secondary.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Boxster S at 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect typical stop-and-go traffic and consistent cruising speeds, respectively. The relatively low city MPG suggests the Boxster S, while comfortable enough for daily driving, performs best on twisty roads or the open highway. The 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder encourages spirited driving, and resisting this urge is important for achieving those EPA estimates.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the 2020 Porsche Boxster S will cost approximately $2,650 per year in fuel. This estimate assumes 15,000 miles driven annually, using the then-current national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs can change based on your location, driving style, and local fuel prices. The Boxster S requires premium fuel, which is typically more expensive than regular unleaded.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive acceleration, frequent manual gear changes (if equipped), and long idling periods can all lower MPG figures. Careful driving techniques and more highway miles can bring the numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. Owners tracking their fuel consumption on forums and fuel tracking apps commonly report average MPG between 20-24 MPG. These numbers depend on different driving styles and conditions.

How it compares

The Boxster S’s fuel economy sits in a reasonable spot when compared to its rivals. The BMW Z4 M40i, with its larger six-cylinder engine, gets around 25 MPG combined, while giving more power. The less powerful base Z4, with its 2.0L turbo four, achieves around 28 MPG combined. The Audi TT RS, another all-wheel-drive competitor with a potent five-cylinder engine, gets 22 MPG combined, the same as the Boxster S. This emphasizes the need to balance performance and efficiency in this vehicle class. Buyers willing to give up some performance for better fuel economy might consider the base Boxster or the base Z4, while those wanting raw power might accept the TT RS’s similar fuel consumption.

For more information, explore all Porsche fuel economy data, or see BOXSTER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking. The Boxster S is built for fast driving, but smooth and controlled movements will greatly improve fuel consumption. Gently use the accelerator, predict traffic, and coast when you can. The 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK) is designed for efficiency at highway speeds.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consuming more fuel. Check tire pressures often, ideally weekly, and inflate them to the recommended levels shown on the doorjamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.

Reduce weight in the car. Extra weight, like luggage or sports equipment, reduces fuel efficiency. Take out anything unnecessary to reduce the load on the engine.

Plan routes and avoid traffic. Stop-and-go traffic wastes fuel. Plan routes to avoid busy areas and peak traffic hours. Using navigation apps to find less congested routes, even if slightly longer, is a good idea.

Consider the Porsche driving modes. The “Normal” driving mode focuses on fuel efficiency, while “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes hold gears longer for better performance. Choose “Normal” mode when conserving fuel is important.