19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel-efficiency awards, especially for a sports car. But the 2022 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS isn’t designed for people obsessed with saving gas. It’s a machine for those who want open-air driving, all-weather capability, and the iconic shape of a Porsche. The cost of gas is simply part of owning such a car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Targa 4 GTS gets 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers come from standardized tests that simulate real-world driving. The city test includes stop-and-go traffic and slow speeds, while the highway test simulates consistent cruising at higher speeds. Remember that your own MPG will change based on how you drive, traffic, and the weather.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS at $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average national gas prices. If you drive more or less than that, your costs will be different. Gas price changes will also affect the final cost, so think of this number as an estimate. The estimate assumes you’re using premium unleaded fuel, of course.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world MPG often varies. The Targa 4 GTS makes you want to drive fast, and using the 473 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine will lower your fuel efficiency. Driving at high speed, accelerating often, and driving in city traffic can easily result in lower MPG than the EPA estimates. Driving carefully on the highway might give you slightly better MPG than the official numbers.

How it compares

The 911 Targa 4 GTS occupies a specific spot among performance cars. A BMW M4 Competition xDrive convertible, with its 503-hp inline-six, gets slightly better EPA ratings, at 16 city/23 highway MPG. A Jaguar F-Type R convertible, with a supercharged V8, is similar at 16mpg city and 24 mpg highway. You can find this information and more in all Porsche fuel economy data. While the Porsche’s MPG isn’t great, it’s similar to other high-performance vehicles in its class. It stands out by offering all-wheel drive in a Targa body style, which makes direct comparisons hard, but the MPG numbers are similar to those of its competitors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Most Targa 4 GTS owners aren’t too concerned with fuel efficiency, but you can still take steps to improve it. Avoid accelerating and braking hard. Smooth inputs are key to getting the best MPG in any car, especially in performance cars that reward fast driving.

Use the Porsche’s driving modes wisely. “Normal” mode saves gas by changing the throttle response and shift points. It reduces the car’s performance, but it can increase MPG in everyday driving. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes encourage faster driving and will reduce fuel economy. You can also explore 911 MPG across all years to see if another model or year works better for you.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures often and inflate them to the recommended levels, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Correct tire pressure improves both MPG and safety.

Don’t let the engine idle. Idling wastes gas without moving the car. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines start quickly, so restarting won’t cause any problems.

Remove extra weight from the car. Extra weight makes the engine work harder, which reduces fuel economy. Take out anything you don’t need from the trunk and passenger area to reduce the load. This might not make a big difference, but every little bit helps.