19 MPG combined, let’s address it head-on. That figure, the EPA’s estimate for the 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS with the 3.0L flat-six and automatic transmission, isn’t going to win any awards for less gas. But it also wasn’t the main concern for the person who wrote a very large check to put a GTS in their garage. They pursued driving pleasure, performance, and exclusivity above all else, and they understood the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the 911 Carrera GTS’s fuel economy further, estimating 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharged engine spends more time spooling up from a standstill, and the car’s weight impacts efficiency. The highway number fares better. The 911’s aerodynamic profile helps it slice through the air, and the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) settles into a tall gear, allowing the engine to cruise relatively effortlessly at highway speeds. Of course, maintaining a steady, legal speed is a challenge in a car that so eagerly invites a heavy right foot.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA projects an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price when the EPA performed their tests. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required, so fuel costs could be even higher depending on where and when you fill up.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a benchmark, real-world MPG will vary widely based on driving style and conditions. Someone who frequently explores the upper reaches of the tachometer, indulging in the GTS’s prodigious power, will likely see figures below the EPA estimates. Conversely, a driver who adopts a more relaxed approach and prioritizes smooth acceleration and consistent speeds might achieve slightly better fuel economy. Factor in variables like traffic congestion, weather conditions, and even tire pressures, and the actual MPG can fluctuate significantly. Don’t expect to hypermile this car, the temptation to exploit all 473 horsepower is simply too strong.

How it compares

The 911 exists in a rarefied space, but it’s worthwhile to consider fuel economy compared to other performance vehicles. The BMW M4 Competition, for example, manages 19 MPG combined, mirroring the 911 GTS, despite using a different engine configuration. The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray returns 19 MPG combined as well, highlighting that performance and efficiency are often at odds, even with advanced technology. Consider stepping outside the sports car segment to the Porsche Taycan 4S, and you’ll potentially see the benefits of the EV powertrain, with ratings of 79 MPGe combined. These comparisons contextualize the 911 GTS’s fuel consumption within its competitive set while showing the alternative choices now available. Go to 911 MPG across all years to see how efficiency has changed over generations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly explore the upper limits of the engine’s rev range. Smooth, deliberate acceleration will significantly improve fuel consumption. Short shifting, even when using the PDK’s manual mode, keeps the engine in its most efficient operating zone.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check the sticker on your doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and make it a habit to check them regularly.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running, but prolonged idling is a pure waste of fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, especially in city traffic.

Avoid unnecessary weight. Removing unnecessary items from the car, such as golf clubs or luggage, reduces the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. This seems trivial, but every little bit helps, especially when you want optimal results after looking at all Porsche fuel economy data.

Use cruise control whenever appropriate. On long highway stretches, cruise control maintains a constant speed, which avoids unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, thereby improving fuel efficiency. Let the car manage the throttle, and you’ll likely see better numbers than you would on your own.