24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but for the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet, equipped with its reliable 3.0L flat-six and all-wheel drive, it’s a reasonable compromise between thrilling performance and acceptable running costs. This is a car bought with the heart, not the head, and while fuel economy matters, it’s rarely the deciding factor for Porsche buyers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet are broken down into 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic where the engine is working harder to accelerate the relatively heavy all-wheel-drive system. The highway MPG demonstrates the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently when speeds are consistent and the engine benefits from the slick aerodynamics honed over decades of 911 development. These figures are generated using standardized testing procedures, but they provide a good baseline for comparing the 911 against other vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet will be approximately $2,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of testing (which varies depending on the time of year and region). Keep in mind that this is an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of driving you do most frequently. Because the 911 is often used for shorter, spirited drives on weekends, many owners may exceed this annual fuel cost figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a solid foundation, real-world MPG for the 2017 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet will likely vary from owner to owner. Drivers who frequently engage in spirited driving or spend a significant amount of time in heavy traffic should expect figures closer to the city estimate, maybe even dipping below 20 MPG. On the other hand, those who frequently drive on the highway and adopt a more relaxed driving style may see figures closer to or even slightly above the 28 MPG highway estimate. The key is to be mindful of your driving habits and driving conditions to get the most accurate estimate of your real-world fuel consumption.

How it compares

In the realm of performance convertibles, the 2017 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet occupies a unique position. For example, the contemporary BMW M4 Convertible offers similar performance but delivers an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined, making the Porsche a slightly more economical choice. A Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet, known for its roaring V8, achieves an even lower 18 MPG combined. Looking outside the German brands, a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible manages around 19 MPG combined. While these cars offer similar thrills, the 911’s slightly better fuel economy, combined with its iconic status and all-weather confidence, makes it a usable sports car year-round. You can view 911 MPG across all years to see how this model fares against other model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Porsche 911 is designed for performance, but there are still ways to improve its fuel efficiency. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Smooth and deliberate inputs will not only conserve fuel but also enhance the driving experience, allowing you to appreciate the car’s balance and responsiveness.

Make use of the car’s driving modes. The “Normal” mode optimizes fuel efficiency by calibrating the engine and transmission for relaxed driving. Switching to “Sport” or “Sport Plus” will sharpen up the experience, but at the cost of burning more fuel.

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 can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize the use of accessories like air conditioning, especially during shorter trips. The A/C compressor places additional load on the engine, which increases fuel consumption. Of course, with the top down, it’s often quite easy to keep the climate control off altogether.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance all contribute to optimal fuel economy. Be sure to consult all Porsche fuel economy data for additional vehicles.