24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel-sipping awards, but for the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, it’s an acceptable compromise. This isn’t a car purchased for practicality; it’s a statement and a remarkably capable sports car that doesn’t require a fortune to keep fueled. The buyer of a 911 Carrera 4S prioritizes the visceral experience, the roar of the flat-six engine, the precise handling, and the exhilaration of speed over fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S at 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures are achieved thanks to the 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-six engine and the responsive AM-S7 (automatic manual 7-speed) transmission. While the city MPG might seem low on paper, the 911’s light weight and efficient engine design help it make the most of each gallon, compared to heavier performance cars or SUVs. The 28 MPG highway figure is more impressive, suggesting that on longer journeys, the 911 can settle into a relaxed cruise. This is due to the car’s advanced aerodynamics and the ability of the transmission to select higher gears, keeping the engine at lower RPMs.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S is $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on driving habits, fuel type, and local fuel prices. Drivers with a heavy foot or stop-and-go traffic can expect to pay more. It offers a standardized benchmark for comparison to other vehicles, but should be taken as advisory. While potentially double what an econobox might cost, it’s a reasonable figure for a car with this level of performance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently exploit the 911’s performance can easily see figures below the EPA estimates, especially in city driving. However, those who adopt a more relaxed driving style and spend more time on the highway might find themselves closer to, or even exceeding, the 28 MPG highway figure. Consider the temptation to rev the engine, along with the 911’s character as a thrilling driver’s car; meeting the EPA numbers consistently requires effort. Explore all 911 MPG across all years to get a full sense of the model’s efficiency history.

How it compares

When compared to other sports cars, the 2017 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S sits in the middle for fuel economy. For example, the Jaguar F-Type R, with its supercharged V8, achieves around 18 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport fares slightly better, hovering around 19 MPG combined. While the 911 may not be the most fuel-efficient sports car, it balances performance and relative efficiency, especially when compared those with larger engines. The 911 Carrera 4S offers a sweet spot for drivers who want a sports car without completely sacrificing lower fuel costs. Review all Porsche fuel economy data on our website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Sport or Sport Plus modes are fun, but they also keep the engine revving higher and reduce fuel economy. Sticking to the Normal driving mode, especially during daily commutes, will optimize fuel efficiency by prioritizing lower RPMs and smoother gear changes.

The 911’s automatic transmission is efficient. Employing the paddle shifters and short-shifting, keeping the engine in the lower end of its rev range, can lead to improvements in fuel economy. Learning the transmission’s shift patterns and anticipating your power needs can help smooth out your driving and reduce unnecessary downshifts.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which impacts fuel economy. Checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is a simple way to improve gas mileage.

Aggressive acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help you maintain a more consistent speed and reduce energy expenditure. Treat the throttle with respect, and the 911 will reward you with both performance and efficiency.