24 MPG combined is not the main reason someone buys a 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4. This isn’t a Prius, and it isn’t trying to be. It’s a distinctive, open-air sports car with all-wheel drive, powered by a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine. The target demographic prioritizes performance, iconic design, and the unique Targa experience over outright fuel efficiency, but that doesn’t mean fuel economy is unimportant.

City and highway performance

The 911 Targa 4’s fuel economy is 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions where the engine is constantly accelerating and decelerating, while the highway number takes advantage of more consistent speeds and reduced engine load. The seven-speed PDK automatic transmission helps optimize fuel consumption by keeping the engine in its most efficient range. Drivers should know that aggressive acceleration, even with the efficient transmission, will significantly impact these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4 at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with approximately 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Remember that premium fuel is required for optimal performance, and fluctuating fuel prices can greatly impact this annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably depending on driving style, road conditions, and maintenance. Drivers who frequently use the engine’s power will likely see figures below the EPA estimates. On the other hand, those who drive gently and primarily use the Targa 4 for longer highway journeys may find themselves closer to, or even exceeding, the 28 MPG highway figure. Tire pressure and regular maintenance also play a role in optimizing fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars, the 911 Targa 4’s fuel economy is reasonable. The Jaguar F-Type R Coupe, with its supercharged V8, achieves around 19 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GT, another high-performance competitor, offers similar numbers. Even within the Porsche family, you can find variations. For instance, the base 911 Carrera Coupe (with rear-wheel drive) manages slightly better fuel economy, approaching 27 MPG combined. The Targa 4’s combination of open-air driving, all-wheel drive, and performance necessitates a compromise in fuel efficiency, a tradeoff that most Targa owners accept. You can find 911 MPG across all years and configurations on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The twin-turbocharged engine in the 911 Targa 4 responds readily to throttle input, but smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Let the PDK transmission do its job, shifting efficiently to keep the engine in its optimal range.

Monitor tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual, as this will improve both fuel economy and handling.

Plan your routes carefully. By avoiding congested areas and choosing routes with fewer stop-and-go situations, you can minimize fuel consumption. Using navigation apps that provide real-time traffic updates can help you avoid unnecessary idling and inefficient driving patterns.

Consider using ‘Normal’ driving mode where appropriate. While ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’ modes enhance performance, they also increase fuel consumption. Using the standard driving mode in less demanding situations will optimize fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment. Explore all Porsche fuel economy data and you’ll see the trends that emerge as you prioritize driver engagement.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure that the engine is running efficiently. Neglecting these tasks can lead to decreased performance and increased fuel consumption over time.