A combined 22 MPG is a figure that will likely cause Porsche Boxster GTS buyers to shrug. They aren’t choosing this mid-engine roadster for lower fuel costs; they’re choosing it for its surgically precise handling, its intoxicating engine note right behind their heads, and the sheer joy of open-air driving. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s an experience, and the fuel bill is simply part of the cost of admission.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Boxster GTS, equipped with its turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway when equipped with the 7-speed PDK automatic transmission. While neither figure is particularly impressive on its own, they accurately reflect the car’s performance potential. The city MPG suffers due to the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the turbo engine consumes more fuel during acceleration. The highway figure is more respectable, reflecting the Boxster’s ability to cruise comfortably at higher speeds. However, aggressive driving, which is almost unavoidable in a Boxster GTS, will quickly reduce that highway number. This car begs to be driven hard, and hard driving equates to more fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2018 Porsche Boxster GTS. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of the calculation. It’s a helpful benchmark, but keep in mind that actual costs can vary significantly depending on driving habits and fluctuations in gasoline prices. Someone using the Boxster GTS primarily for weekend drives will likely spend considerably less than the EPA estimate. Conversely, someone using it for a daily commute in heavy traffic, while repeatedly dipping into that immense powerband, could easily exceed that $2,650 figure.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s 22 MPG combined rating in real-world driving conditions. The temptation to exploit the Boxster GTS’s performance capabilities is simply too strong. Expect something closer to 18-20 MPG in mixed driving. Long highway trips, driven moderately, might approach the 26 MPG mark, but spirited driving will reduce that figure considerably. Owners report significant variation in fuel economy, with some averaging around 17 MPG and others reaching 24 MPG. It all depends on how the car is used and, more importantly, how it’s driven. The Boxster GTS rewards aggressive driving with exhilarating performance, and that exhilarating performance comes at a price at the pump.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars in its class, the 2018 Boxster GTS occupies a middle ground in terms of fuel economy. The BMW M4 Convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The Audi TTS Coupe, with its turbocharged four-cylinder, manages a slightly better 25 MPG combined. The Jaguar F-Type Convertible (2.0L 4-cyl) comes in around 26 MPG. The Boxster GTS’s fuel economy isn’t a deciding factor for most buyers; they are prioritizing performance, handling, and the overall driving experience above all else. Potential buyers can review BOXSTER MPG across all years, or consult all Porsche fuel economy data to further broaden their understanding.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to accelerate aggressively from every stop. The Boxster GTS’s turbocharged engine delivers instant torque, but that torque comes at the expense of fuel efficiency. Smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly improve your MPG, especially in city driving.

Use the PDK transmission’s automatic shifting mode in normal driving conditions. The PDK is incredibly efficient, and its programming prioritizes fuel economy when not in Sport or Sport Plus mode. Let the transmission manage the gear changes for optimal fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy; check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need to warm up for extended periods. Excessive idling wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can help to improve fuel economy. Try to anticipate traffic and avoid sudden braking or acceleration while using cruise control.