20 MPG combined. That’s the fuel economy of the 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. It’s not Prius territory, and expecting hyper-miling numbers from a performance icon like the 911 is unrealistic. This car isn’t bought to save fuel; it’s bought to attack apexes, deliver telepathic steering feedback, and unleash a uniquely Porsche driving experience. The buyer accepts the fuel cost, they planned for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 911 Carrera 4S gets 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The difference between these figures highlights the 911’s dual personality. Around town, stop-and-go traffic increases fuel consumption. The turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six, even with its advanced fuel injection system, is still affected by the laws of physics. However, out on the open road, the MPG changes. With the automatic (PDK) transmission settling into higher gears and the engine running at lower RPMs, the 911 can achieve respectable highway fuel economy. The key here is restraint; accelerate hard and watch that 23 MPG fall quickly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S at $2,900. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and is based on national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is required (91 octane), and fuel prices fluctuate. Your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits and location. Many 911 owners don’t drive 15,000 miles per year, the car might be a weekend toy or a second vehicle, so the annual fuel cost will likely be lower than this estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, however real-world fuel economy may not match it. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can impact MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will all negatively affect fuel consumption. In contrast, smooth, consistent driving, proper tire inflation, and minimizing unnecessary weight in the car can help to improve efficiency. Many owners report seeing numbers close to the EPA estimates, but those who frequently exploit the 911’s performance should anticipate lower numbers.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 911 Carrera 4S sits in a predictable range. The BMW M4 Competition xDrive, another all-wheel-drive performance coupe, achieves a comparable 19 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, with its more powerful V8 engine, offers a less impressive 18 MPG combined. Some high-performance SUVs, larger and heavier, achieve similar fuel economy numbers. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, is often cross-shopped and gets 19 MPG combined. For better fuel economy within the Porsche family, exploring other models or consulting all Porsche fuel economy data is recommended. For a broader perspective, examining 911 MPG across all years can be insightful.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Porsche’s driving modes. Selecting “Normal” mode softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, which can noticeably improve fuel economy during everyday driving. Save “Sport” and “Sport+” modes for when you want to experience the car’s full performance.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which translates to improved fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, especially in warmer weather. The 911 restarts quickly, so it’s a relatively painless way to save fuel.

Drive smoothly. Avoid abrupt acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, consistent driving is safer and more fuel-efficient. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway helps keep your speeds consistent.