20 MPG combined isn’t the reason anyone buys a 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera 4. This car delivers thrills, breathtaking performance, and envy to anyone who sees it. The all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 adds sure-footedness, making it a year-round performance machine for those who need all-wheel drive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The difference hints at the Carrera 4’s split personality. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic will punish the fuel tank, especially if you’re frequently using the turbocharger’s reserves. Out on the open road, however, the 911 settles into a more relaxed rhythm. The eight-speed PDK transmission keeps the engine in its sweet spot, and you might even exceed the EPA’s highway estimate if you resist the temptation to pass every car in sight.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 will be $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly evenly between city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how you drive, where you drive, and the fluctuating price of premium gasoline, but this provides a benchmark for evaluating the cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the 911 Carrera 4 is highly driver-dependent. Those who treat the 911 as a daily commuter, navigating congested city streets, will likely see numbers closer to the EPA’s city estimate, or perhaps even slightly lower if they have a heavy foot. Conversely, drivers who use the car for weekend cruises on open highways could potentially exceed the EPA’s highway estimate. Remember, spirited driving and frequent bursts of acceleration will drastically reduce fuel economy. This is a performance car, and it rewards aggressive driving with a corresponding penalty at the pump.

How it compares

The 20 MPG combined number puts the 911 Carrera 4 in a specific segment of the performance car market. A BMW M4 Competition xDrive, with its 503-hp inline-six and all-wheel drive, achieves a similar 19 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, though rear-wheel drive only, manages a comparable 18 MPG combined with its powerful V8. Even the significantly more powerful Chevrolet Corvette Z06, despite its naturally aspirated V8, lands near the 911 at 15 MPG combined. Buyers considering the 911 are generally willing to accept a certain level of fuel consumption in exchange for the performance and prestige that the Porsche brand offers. You can see 911 MPG across all years to understand how this model compares across generations. You can also compare to all Porsche fuel economy data to see how the 911 fits into the entire brand. These comparisons show that while not the most efficient car on the road, the 911 is reasonable for its performance class.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its sporting intentions, there are ways to improve fuel efficiency in your 911 Carrera 4. The most impactful is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, and anticipate traffic flow to maintain a more consistent speed. The PDK transmission is programmed for efficiency as well as performance, so let it do its job and resist the urge to manually downshift unless necessary.

Use the car’s drive modes effectively. The “Normal” mode prioritizes fuel economy by optimizing throttle response, shift points, and other parameters. Reserve “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes for those times when you truly want to unleash the car’s full potential. These modes are designed to maximize performance, not efficiency.

Proper tire inflation is critical for both performance and fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy and degrades handling.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the car. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall mass, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items that you don’t regularly need, especially heavy objects in the trunk or rear seats. This simple step can impact fuel consumption.

Ensure that your 911 receives regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements as specified in the owner’s manual. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which translates to better fuel economy and prolonged engine life. Don’t skip scheduled services in an attempt to save a few dollars; it will cost you more in the long run.