24 MPG combined won’t get the 2016 Porsche Boxster S any fuel efficiency awards, nor is that the goal. This is a mid-engine sports car engineered for driving pleasure, not maximizing miles per gallon. Those who prioritize fuel economy aren’t likely considering a Boxster S.

City and highway performance

The official EPA numbers for the 2016 Boxster S with its 3.4-liter flat-six and optional 7-speed PDK automatic transmission are 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The highway number is achieved during steady-state cruising. If you tap into the engine’s readily available power to overtake or enjoy the car’s handling, that figure will drop. Similarly, stop-and-go city driving, especially with aggressive acceleration, will reduce the city MPG. This car begs to be driven hard, and while the PDK transmission offers impressive efficiency compared to a traditional automatic, it encourages aggressive driving with its fast gear changes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2016 Porsche Boxster S. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is required for the Boxster S, increasing the fuel cost. Your personal fuel cost could vary depending on how often and how aggressively you drive, and also with fluctuations in fuel prices where you live.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, but real-world fuel economy for the 2016 Boxster S depends on the driver. Careful drivers might see figures close to the EPA estimates, especially on longer highway trips. However, most Boxster S owners buy the car to enjoy its performance, which means more aggressive driving. Expect a combined MPG closer to 20 MPG in mixed driving conditions, with highway numbers in the mid-20s. Track days, canyon runs, and enthusiastic backroad excursions will significantly reduce fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2016 Boxster S’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The BMW Z4 sDrive35i, with its turbocharged inline-six engine, achieved similar EPA ratings, around 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Mercedes-Benz SLK350 also hovered around the 21 MPG combined mark. More modern engines, such as those found in the current generation of these vehicles, offer improvements in fuel economy, but the Boxster S wasn’t out of line with its peers. The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, despite its smaller turbocharged engine, offered similar MPG, but that car prioritizes lightness and raw driving feel over the Boxster’s refined experience. You can review all Porsche fuel economy data to see the broader picture of the brand’s offerings. For dedicated BOXSTER MPG across all years, see our BOXSTER MPG data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the car’s driving modes. The PDK transmission and the engine management system offer modes, including a “Normal” mode that prioritizes fuel efficiency. Selecting this mode results in earlier upshifts and a more relaxed throttle response, helping to conserve fuel during everyday driving.

Maintain proper tire inflation. This is a basic element of fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving MPG. Check your tire pressures regularly and use the recommended pressures on the door jamb sticker.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This can save fuel, particularly in city driving.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize sudden changes in speed. The PDK transmission’s ability to quickly downshift can be tempting, but resist the urge for fuel efficiency.