21 MPG combined won’t excite many, especially in 2016. But for the driver who chooses a 2016 Nissan 370Z Roadster with the 3.7L V6 and automatic transmission, it’s arguably irrelevant. This isn’t a car bought for practicality or frugality; it’s a visceral, engaging sports car experience with open-air thrills, and the fuel bill is simply a cost of admission.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates pin the 370Z Roadster at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving and the engine’s eagerness to rev, conditions where its thirst for premium unleaded is most apparent. The highway number, while seemingly reasonable, requires a degree of restraint not naturally encouraged by the car’s character. Driven sedately on long stretches, 25 MPG is attainable. Pressing the Z to carve through corners and exploiting the V6’s power will quickly diminish that figure.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Nissan 370Z Roadster is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a fuel price that reflects national averages at the time of calculation. As fuel prices fluctuate and individual driving habits vary drastically, this number serves only as a benchmark. Someone using the 370Z Roadster solely for weekend blasts will likely spend less. A daily commuter fighting rush-hour traffic will almost certainly spend more. Remember that this figure also assumes you are using the recommended premium fuel, so you’ll potentially invalidate your warranty and risk damaging this fine Japanese equipment should you use regular octane fuel.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG will likely fall short of the EPA estimates. The 370Z Roadster, with its potent V6 and sporting intentions, isn’t a car that encourages gentle driving. The temptation to explore the upper reaches of the tachometer is ever-present, and each burst of acceleration contributes to a reduction in fuel economy. Drivers should realistically expect to average closer to 19-20 MPG in mixed driving, with highway figures varying significantly based on speed and driving style. Those prioritizing fuel efficiency can achieve closer to the EPA estimates, but at the expense of the driving experience the Roadster is known for. Check out 370Z MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 370Z Roadster’s fuel economy is generally in the same ballpark, although advancements in powertrain technology have since left it behind. A 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata, for instance, achieves a significantly better 30 MPG combined with its 2.0L four-cylinder engine. However, the Miata offers a vastly different driving experience, prioritizing nimble handling and lightweight fun over raw power. A 2016 BMW Z4 sDrive28i, with its turbocharged four-cylinder, manages around 26 MPG combined. The Z4 provides a more luxurious and refined experience, but also commands a higher price. The buyer considering a 370Z Roadster prioritizes the strong power of a naturally aspirated V6 and its communicative chassis, accepting the fuel economy trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Although fuel efficiency might not be the primary concern for 370Z Roadster owners, there are still ways to reduce fuel consumption. Minimize aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.7L V6 is responsive and eager, but exploiting its full potential costs more at the pump. Smooth, deliberate inputs will conserve fuel without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. This applies to all vehicles, but it’s especially important given the cost that premium rubber will entail for a Z buyer.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods burns fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This becomes even more crucial when the air conditioning systems are running.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, reducing the fluctuations in throttle input that can waste fuel. Be mindful of terrain and traffic conditions, as cruise control isn’t always the most efficient option in hilly or congested areas. It’s better to avoid cruise completely in these tricky conditions.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Neglecting these tasks can lead to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. For all all Nissan fuel economy data, there is a direct correlation between proper care and overall engine efficiency.