20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s hardly the point of the 2024 Porsche 911 Targa 4S. This car is designed to deliver a visceral driving experience with open-air thrills, iconic styling, and all-wheel drive confidence, blending performance in a uniquely Porsche way. The person choosing a Targa 4S is prioritizing those attributes far above squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. They understand, and accept, the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 911 Targa 4S equipped with the automatic (AM-S8) transmission break down to 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. While these numbers won’t impress a Prius owner, they’re respectable figures for a car boasting a 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 443 horsepower. The city MPG reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine operates less efficiently, while the highway figure shows the benefit of cruising at a steady speed, allowing the engine to operate closer to its optimal range. Drivers should know their individual driving habits will greatly affect their real world numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Porsche 911 Targa 4S at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. Of course, individual costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven each year. Someone who primarily uses the Targa 4S for weekend joyrides will likely spend considerably less than someone who uses it as a daily driver. In any case, the $2,900 figure provides a useful benchmark for budgeting purposes, and is a factor potential owners must consider alongside insurance, maintenance, and other running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Enthusiastic driving, a heavy foot on the accelerator, and frequent use of the car’s performance capabilities will undoubtedly lead to lower MPG figures. Conversely, more conservative driving, combined with sensible use of the automatic transmission’s more fuel-efficient modes, may yield slightly better results. However, it’s unlikely that owners will dramatically exceed the EPA estimates, as the Targa 4S’s performance-oriented nature tends to encourage more spirited driving.

How it compares

Compared to other performance-oriented sports cars, the 911 Targa 4S’s fuel economy is neither exceptional nor terrible. The BMW M4 Competition Convertible, for example, manages a similar 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet, another competitor, gets an EPA estimated 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Consider that someone cross-shopping these cars has likely already reconciled themselves to the reality of performance-car fuel consumption. For those focused on the Porsche lineup specifically, it is useful to consider 911 MPG across all years. Drivers seeking far better numbers may want to look into the all Porsche fuel economy data to compare with the Taycan lineup of electric vehicles.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Porsche’s driving modes. Selecting “Normal” or “Eco” mode reduces throttle sensitivity and encourages earlier upshifts, which can help to conserve fuel. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, controlled inputs are not only better for fuel economy but also enhance the overall driving experience.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, which are typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Lighter wheels can reduce rotational mass and improve fuel economy.

When appropriate, use the automatic transmission’s coasting function. This feature disengages the engine from the drivetrain under certain conditions, allowing the car to coast freely and save fuel. and keeping up with regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that the engine is operating at peak efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra weight increases the load on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or rear seats that are not essential.