19 MPG combined is the price of admission for the 2018 Porsche Macan GTS. While hardly stellar, understand that this isn’t a commuter car; it’s a compact performance SUV wearing a Porsche crest. Its mission is carving corners and accelerating with authority, not sipping fuel. Think of the Macan GTS buyer as someone who prioritizes driving experience above all else, tolerating middling fuel economy as a necessary evil to secure that experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down fuel consumption further, estimating 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Macan’s responsive throttle and eagerness to accelerate from every red light impact efficiency. The highway MPG improves, but only to a point. Even at cruising speeds, the 3.0L V6 is always ready to deliver instant power, tempting drivers to dip into the throttle and sacrifice efficiency for a quick burst of speed. The transmission’s sport programming further exacerbates the highway reality. The 7-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) is lightning-fast and intuitive, but relentlessly eager to downshift for enhanced acceleration, thus boosting fuel use.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2018 Porsche Macan GTS. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and differences in local fuel prices. Premium fuel is recommended for the Macan GTS. Fill it with regular, and you have rendered the vehicle that’s supposed to deliver optimal performance, sub-optimal.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Macan GTS drivers who spend most of their time in city traffic will likely see MPG figures closer to the EPA’s 17 MPG rating, or even slightly lower. Aggressive driving habits, frequent use of Sport or Sport Plus modes, and short trips where the engine doesn’t fully warm up will further reduce fuel efficiency. Conversely, drivers who primarily use the Macan GTS for highway cruising may be able to achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 23 MPG highway rating, especially if they practice smooth acceleration and avoid unnecessary speeding. Access MACAN MPG across all years to see how this compares to other model years.

How it compares

The Macan GTS doesn’t exist in a vacuum. For buyers considering performance SUVs, fuel economy is always a factor, even if not the primary one. The Audi SQ5, with its supercharged 3.0L V6, offers a notably better 21 MPG combined. The BMW X3 M40i achieves a similar 22 MPG combined using its turbocharged inline-6. Even the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 manages 20 MPG combined in some model years. These alternatives demonstrate that performance and slightly better fuel economy aren’t mutually exclusive. However, the Macan GTS counters with unique Porsche characteristics: more responsive steering, a more communicative chassis, and overall more connected driving experience. Those willing to sacrifice a few MPG for that quintessential Porsche feel will stick with the GTS, while more pragmatic buyers might lean towards the efficient competitors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Macan’s Auto Start/Stop feature. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, such as at a traffic light, and restarts it when you release the brake pedal. While it can be slightly jarring at first, it significantly reduces fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic. You can disable the system with a dash-mounted button, but leaving it active can add up over time.

Porsche’s PDK transmission is incredibly efficient when left to its own devices. In Normal mode, it will upshift early and often, keeping engine RPMs low and minimizing fuel consumption. Avoid constantly shifting manually, as this often results in holding gears for longer than necessary. Normal mode allows the computer to make the best choice for this vehicle’s engine.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which means the engine has to work harder to maintain speed, thus wasting fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the doorjamb sticker, or add 1-2 PSI. Remember, you prioritize performance, so ensure proper tire pressure for cornering at speed.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines warm up quickly, so there’s no need for extended idling, even in cold weather. Save fuel for what you should be doing: performance driving. Don’t waste it, sitting still.

Service your Macan GTS using Porsche-approved parts replaced at Porsche-approved intervals. A neglected engine, dirty air filter, or old spark plugs will reduce efficiency. Stick to the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual to keep your Macan GTS running smoothly and efficiently. Neglecting your GTS is worse than selling it, so show it respect.

Those looking for additional information on all Porsche models can access all Porsche fuel economy data.