The 2024 Porsche 911 Dakar achieves 19 MPG combined. It’s not built for hypermilers, but is a purpose-built machine; an off-road-ready 911 designed to conquer sand dunes and rally stages rather than maximizing fuel efficiency. Focusing on its consumption figures entirely misses the point of this extraordinary vehicle. Buyers aren’t cross-shopping this with a Prius. They’re after a unique blend of Porsche performance and unexpected capability, and they accept the inherent trade-offs.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA figures, the 911 Dakar achieves 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go driving where the engine works harder, and the Dakar’s increased rolling resistance, due to its all-terrain tires and lifted suspension, comes into play. The highway figure is more palatable, showcasing the efficiency of the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six when cruising. Note that these figures are achieved with premium fuel, which is required for optimal performance and longevity of the engine.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche 911 Dakar is $3,050. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specified percentage of city versus highway miles, at the national average fuel price. Fluctuations in fuel prices will directly impact this expense, and drivers who cover more miles or who frequently operate the Dakar in demanding conditions off road can expect to see that annual expense climb.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a baseline, but fuel consumption will vary significantly based on driving style and the conditions. Regularly engaging “Offroad” mode or tackling challenging terrain will drastically reduce fuel economy. Porsche enthusiasts who frequently unleash the engine’s full potential can expect to see figures dip below the EPA estimates. But those prioritizing fuel efficiency on longer highway journeys may find themselves exceeding the 24 MPG highway rating, though not by much. This vehicle is rarely driven with fuel economy in mind.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance vehicles with all-terrain capability, the 911 Dakar’s fuel economy lands somewhere in the middle. The Lamborghini Urus, boasting a significantly more powerful V8, manages a similar 14 MPG city, 19 MPG highway, and 16 MPG combined. On the other hand, a Land Rover Range Rover with the supercharged V6 may achieve slightly better highway numbers around 22 MPG. The 911 Dakar’s unique approach to performance and versatility, combined with its relatively smaller engine displacement, impacts its fuel economy. The target buyer understands this. To find all Porsche fuel economy data, review the relevant make-specific pages. If you’d like to see 911 MPG across all years, we also offer that information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Fuel economy is not the primary concern for Dakar owners, but there are some strategies to minimize consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Dakar’s powerful engine responds readily to throttle inputs, but a gentle foot conserves fuel without sacrificing too much enjoyment. Maintain a steady speed on the highway and use cruise control when appropriate.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. The Dakar’s all-terrain tires are designed for grip, not efficiency. Maintaining the correct pressure minimizes rolling resistance and optimizes fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressures according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. The Dakar boasts a lightweight design for its class, but carrying extra cargo adds strain on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or back seats to minimize the vehicle’s overall weight.

Avoid idling for extended periods as idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate a prolonged stop, consider turning off the engine to conserve fuel. The Dakar’s automatic start/stop system can help with this, but be mindful of its operation in off-road environments where continuous engine operation may be preferable.