21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for frugality, but it’s the price of admission to the world of the 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet. Consider this: you’re getting open-air thrills, all-wheel-drive security, and a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter flat-six that sings to 7,800 RPM. Fuel economy is simply not the primary concern for someone who prioritizes that experience. It’s a trade-off, and one most GTS buyers are willing to make without a second thought. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a weekend escape pod, a performance statement, and driving pleasure is above all else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this particular 911 variant achieves 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the potent engine works harder at lower speeds, and the automatic transmission (Porsche’s PDK) shifts frequently. While 18 MPG might seem low, remember that this car encourages spirited driving.

The highway MPG isn’t exceptional either, but it’s respectable given the car’s performance capabilities. With the top down, wind resistance further impacts efficiency at higher speeds. The true figure depends heavily on driving style, as a heavier foot will plummet the highway number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet at exactly $2,750. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. Remember that premium fuel is mandatory for this high-performance engine, so that higher cost is already factored into the EPA estimate.

This cost can vary significantly based on your actual mileage, driving habits, and local fuel prices. However, $2,750 provides a benchmark of what owning this vehicle will likely cost you each year in fuel alone.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA sticker when you’re behind the wheel, your mileage will vary. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of Sport or Sport Plus modes, and the simple joy of hearing the engine roar will pull MPG figures down. Expect the city figure to be quite accurate, but the highway number is more easily influenced by driving style. Owners achieve closer to 22-23 MPG on long highway trips even with the 7-speed automatic, especially if they resist the urge to constantly downshift and overtake slower vehicles. It’s less about the MPG and more about the smile per gallon.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance convertibles and coupes, the 911’s fuel economy is neither surprisingly good nor disappointingly bad. A C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray convertible, for example, can achieve around 20 MPG combined with its automatic transmission. A BMW M4 convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, might eke out slightly better numbers, around 22 MPG combined, for some owners. However, those cars offer different driving experiences and cater to slightly different buyers. The Porsche buyer is paying for the unique flat-six engine, the iconic design, and the bespoke interior, and slightly lower MPG is acceptable. You can see further 911 MPG across all years right here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be a top priority, there are still several ways to extract the most miles from each tank. Resist the urge to bury the throttle at every opportunity. The engine rewards smooth, progressive acceleration just as much as it rewards aggressive driving, and your fuel bill will thank you.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy without sacrificing handling. Check the sticker inside the driver’s side door for the correct pressures.

Avoid prolonged idling. Modern engines are designed to warm up quickly, and excessive idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. Use the car’s cruise control system whenever appropriate, especially on long highway journeys. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing fuel consumption and reducing driver fatigue. Finally, keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, so follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. You can view all Porsche fuel economy data here.