The 2022 Porsche 718 Spyder, with its naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-6, gets 20 MPG combined. Driving enthusiasts who want raw thrills, great handling, and the open-top experience likely won’t mind this figure. They want a precision instrument for carving apexes and connecting with the road.

City and highway performance

The combined figure of 20 MPG tells part of the story, but the city and highway numbers reveal more. The EPA rates it at 18 MPG in the city because stop-and-go traffic isn’t ideal for a high-revving engine. However, on the highway, at a steady speed, the Spyder gets a more respectable 24 MPG. This means it’s good for spirited drives, but can also handle longer trips if you avoid using all that power.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Porsche 718 Spyder at $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving, and national average fuel prices, which can change. Compared to many sports cars or SUVs, the Spyder uses more fuel. Owners should include this in the total cost, as the Spyder’s unique driving experience has costs beyond the initial price.

Real-World Expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world MPG changes by driving style, traffic, and roads. Spyder owners who often drive it hard on tracks or winding roads will probably see numbers below the EPA estimates. But those who use it for weekend drives and follow speed limits might get close to, or even beat, the 24 MPG highway figure. Most owners know that fuel efficiency wasn’t the main goal when designing this car.

How It Compares

The 718 Spyder’s fuel economy is where you’d expect, compared to its rivals. A BMW Z4 M40i gets around 25 MPG combined, which is better because of its turbocharged engine. The Audi TTS, also turbocharged, gets about 26 MPG combined. Even the base 718 Boxster with the 2.0L turbo-4 gets around 24 MPG combined. The Spyder’s engine leads to lower numbers but is a key part of its character. Buyers considering 718 MPG across all years should compare turbocharging versus naturally aspirated power. For some, the fuel economy difference doesn’t matter compared to the sound and throttle response of the 4.0L flat-6. See all Porsche fuel economy data to compare.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

You can still get slightly better fuel economy with the Spyder, even though it’s built for performance. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Smooth inputs will lower fuel use, especially in the city.

Use the highest gear possible without straining the engine. Select a gear that keeps the engine in its most efficient range. The automatic transmission is programmed to save fuel in its normal mode.

Regular maintenance is important for good fuel efficiency. Keep the tires inflated, use the right oil, and keep the air filter clean. A well-maintained engine runs better.

Consider your route. Avoid busy city streets and choose routes with fewer stops. Maintaining a constant speed uses less gas than accelerating and decelerating.

The Spyder’s design and tires create drag. Removing extra weight can help improve fuel economy a little. Leave the golf clubs at home, unless you’re going golfing.