19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but in the world of high-performance sports cars that transform into open-air thrill machines instantly, it’s a figure that 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet buyers accept. These are individuals who prioritize driving experience, exhilarating sound, and iconic design; fuel efficiency is lower on the list, somewhere below the color of the stitching and the availability of carbon fiber trim. This car is not purchased for commutes or grocery runs, although it can certainly handle those duties. It is bought for the pure enjoyment of driving.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet achieves 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the reality of a powerful 3.0-liter flat-six engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (PDK). The city figure reveals the impact of stop-and-go traffic, and the temptation to push the car’s instant acceleration from every stop light. The highway number, though respectable, is also affected by the car’s design. Aerodynamic efficiency is second to visual appeal and the top-down experience, meaning the car isn’t as streamlined as a grand tourer might be.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Remember that this is only an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of fuel you use (premium is highly recommended for the GTS). For example, aggressive driving will push fuel economy down, and the annual fueling cost up, likely beyond that $3,050 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary dramatically. Drivers who frequently use the sport exhaust, explore the upper limits of the tachometer, or participate in track days will see MPG figures lower than those published by the EPA. On the other hand, those who primarily use the car for relaxed cruising on the open road, with the top down, might find themselves closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the advertised highway mileage. Owning a sports car like the GTS requires more focus on the experience than how many trips you can take to the pump using one tank of fuel.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance convertibles, the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet’s fuel economy is within a typical range. A Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible, with its larger V8 engine, manages a slightly better 19 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. Meanwhile, an Aston Martin Vantage Roadster, prioritizing raw power and luxury, achieves substantially lower fuel economy, with EPA ratings around 18 MPG combined. Even the comparatively docile BMW Z4 M40i gets slightly better mileage with 25 MPG highway. The GTS’s relative thriftiness reflects Porsche’s commitment to getting maximum performance from a smaller, technologically advanced engine. For a broader perspective, you can compare 911 MPG across all years. You can also see all Porsche fuel economy data to compare the GTS to the brand’s other models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While maximizing fuel economy might not be the main goal of a 911 GTS Cabriolet owner, there are steps you can take to improve your MPG without sacrificing enjoyment. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The GTS’s PDK transmission is quick and efficient when left to its own devices in normal driving mode. Let the car shift early and smoothly.

Resist the temptation to constantly engage the sport exhaust. While the sound is intoxicating, it encourages higher RPMs and more aggressive throttle inputs, which directly impact fuel consumption. Keep the more aggressive driving modes for suitable roads or situations.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, negatively impacting fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, found either on a sticker in the door jamb or in the owner’s manual.

Minimize unnecessary weight. While the GTS is not exactly overburdened to begin with, removing any extra items from the car can help fuel efficiency slightly. Every little bit helps, combined with other good driving habits.