19 MPG combined is probably irrelevant for the 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar. This isn’t a commuter car, grocery getter, or even a weekend canyon carver. It’s a statement. It’s a Porsche that dares to venture where 911s typically don’t: gravel roads, desert trails, and snowy mountain passes. Fuel economy is likely the last thing on the mind of someone who trades a sliver of on-road performance for a substantial boost in off-road capability and exclusivity.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 911 Dakar achieves 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. City driving, characterized by stop-and-go traffic, highlights the fuel consumption of the turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine. The raised ride height and all-terrain tires further increase fuel use compared to a standard 911.

Highway driving allows the engine to settle into a more efficient cruising speed, delivering the best fuel economy this car can achieve. Even then, 24 MPG isn’t going to win any awards. It’s a trade-off accepted for the Dakar’s unparalleled versatility and unique character.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Fuel prices fluctuate, and individual driving habits vary, so your actual fuel expenses could be higher or lower.

This figure serves as a benchmark for comparing the Dakar’s running costs to other vehicles in the premium sports car segment.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA’s numbers. Driving a 911, especially one as unique as the Dakar, isn’t about hypermiling. Its performance begs to be explored, so you’ll likely spend more time enjoying the boost from the turbos than trying to conserve fuel.

Frequent off-road excursions, spirited driving on winding roads, and the temptation to hear that flat-six sing at high RPMs will all contribute to lower-than-rated fuel economy. Consider the EPA figures a best-case scenario, and budget accordingly.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars, the 911 Dakar’s fuel economy isn’t great, but it is comparable. A standard 911 Carrera with the same engine and transmission achieves a combined 21 MPG, a modest improvement showing the penalty that aggressive tires and a lifted suspension extract. More powerful 911 variants, like the 911 Turbo, drop to 17 MPG combined. While not a direct competitor, the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato, a similar off-road focused supercar, manages an even lower 15 MPG combined. Luxury SUVs, like the Porsche Cayenne, offer more practicality and similar fuel economy in certain trims, but lack the Dakar’s driving experience. Reviewing all Porsche fuel economy data reveals the breadth of efficiency figures across the brand’s model lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for Dakar owners, there are still steps you can take to minimize fuel consumption. Proper tire inflation is one. Especially with the Dakar’s all-terrain tires, maintaining the correct pressure is essential for reducing rolling resistance and maximizing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, particularly before longer drives.

Gentle acceleration and braking can make a surprising difference. Avoiding aggressive driving habits, especially in city traffic, helps the engine operate more efficiently. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. This is particularly important in the Dakar, which has instant power on tap.

Use the car’s driving modes selectively. The 911 Dakar has multiple drive modes optimizing various aspects of the car’s performance. While Sport and Sport Plus modes are tempting, using Normal mode during everyday driving can help improve fuel economy by adjusting throttle response and shift points. When hitting the trails, engage the appropriate off-road mode to optimize traction, but understand that these modes will always trade some MPG for the desired capability.

Consider reducing unnecessary weight. While the Dakar is already relatively light for its class, removing any unnecessary items from the vehicle can have a small but positive impact on fuel economy. This includes items in the trunk or back seats that aren’t essential for the trip. Maintaining the car meticulously will also extend its life and maintain optimal performance, optimizing efficiency. Research 911 MPG across all years to see how different generations have evolved in terms of both performance and efficiency.