20 MPG combined. The 2024 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet isn’t trying to win any hypermiling competitions. It’s a machine meticulously engineered to deliver an unparalleled driving experience, a symphony of sound and sensation that elevates the simple act of traveling from point A to point B into something truly special. Fuel economy is a consideration, certainly, but one that resides somewhere below cornering grip, throttle response, and the sheer joy of open-air motoring on a winding road.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates put the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet at 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. While these figures might seem unremarkable on paper, they don’t tell the full story. This is a powerful sports car with a turbocharged engine, and its fuel consumption is heavily dependent on driving style. Gentle cruising on the highway will likely yield numbers close to the EPA estimate, while using the engine’s full power in urban environments will undoubtedly push the MPG figure lower. The eight-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but ultimately, the driver’s right foot is the biggest determinant of fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet to be $2,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparison, but individual fuel costs can vary significantly depending on driving habits, location, and prevailing gas prices. For owners who primarily use the 911 for weekend excursions or spirited driving, rather than a daily commute, the actual fuel cost might be lower than the EPA estimate.

Conversely, those who frequently navigate congested city streets in a more aggressive manner may find their annual fuel expenses exceeding this figure. Looking at all Porsche fuel economy data provides a wider context of the brand’s efficiency.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet will likely fall within a range of 17 to 25 MPG, depending on driving conditions and style. Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency can certainly achieve figures closer to the upper end of that range, but doing so requires a conscious effort to limit aggressive acceleration and maintain consistent speeds. The 911 encourages spirited driving, and it’s difficult to resist the urge to fully exploit its capabilities. Ultimately, most owners accept the fuel consumption as a trade-off for the performance and driving experience that the car delivers.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance convertibles, the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet’s fuel economy is generally competitive. The BMW M4 Competition Convertible, for example, is rated at 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Cabriolet, with its more powerful V8 engine, achieves even lower fuel economy figures, around 17 MPG combined. Even within the Porsche family, you can compare 911 MPG across all years to see how the model has evolved. These comparisons matter because buyers in this segment often cross-shop these vehicles, weighing factors like performance, style, and brand prestige alongside fuel economy. While the 911 might not be the most fuel-efficient option, it offers a blend of performance and relative efficiency that appeals to many buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Normal” driving mode as much as possible, especially during city driving. This mode optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel efficiency, reducing throttle response and shifting at lower RPMs. While it might not unleash the full potential of the 911, it can significantly improve fuel economy in everyday driving scenarios.

Avoid excessive idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient at startup, and prolonged idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine. This is particularly relevant in urban environments with frequent stop-and-go traffic.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple step can have a noticeable impact on fuel efficiency.

Anticipate traffic flow and practice smooth acceleration and braking. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. By anticipating traffic patterns and driving smoothly, you can minimize unnecessary fuel consumption and improve your overall fuel economy without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment.