21 MPG combined is likely a secondary consideration for buyers of the 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet. They aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency; they’re buying a visceral, open-air driving experience with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter flat-six engine. This car is about the sound of that engine, the responsiveness, and the thrill of cornering. Fuel economy is less important than those attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet are 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s performance: the city rating is a slight penalty, while the highway figure shows that it can cruise well when not driven aggressively. Stop-and-go traffic will quickly diminish the city MPG, and spirited driving will lower those highway figures as well.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this vehicle to be $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate, your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the roads you use, and fuel prices. The 911 GTS requires premium fuel, so many owners will likely exceed this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy depends heavily on driving style. Owners who frequently use the engine’s power and enjoy the car’s handling should expect lower MPG. Those who primarily use the car for weekend drives and highway cruising might come closer to the EPA estimates. This is a high-performance vehicle designed for driving pleasure, which comes at a cost at the pump.

How it compares

Compared to other performance vehicles, the 2016 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet is in the middle of the pack. A Jaguar F-Type R Convertible, with its supercharged V8, typically yields combined MPG in the high teens. A BMW M4 Convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, might achieve a slightly better combined figure, in the low 20s. The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible boasts more horsepower, and can attain over 20 MPG combined. Buyers often cross-shop these vehicles, weighing performance alongside running costs. You can review 911 MPG across all years here, or compare it to all Porsche fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. The recommended tire pressure for the 911 GTS is important for handling and for minimizing rolling resistance, which impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long drives.

Use the car’s driving modes. The 911 GTS offers selectable driving modes that can affect fuel consumption. In normal driving conditions, selecting a more economical mode can help optimize fuel efficiency, and save “Sport” and “Sport Plus” for fun.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Smooth driving improves fuel economy and the driving experience. By anticipating traffic and maintaining a consistent speed, you can reduce fuel use.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine is efficient. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements can improve fuel economy. Follow Porsche’s maintenance schedule for performance.

Resist flooring it. The 911 GTS is fun to drive, but hard acceleration will significantly impact fuel consumption. Enjoy the car’s performance responsibly, and save those bursts for appropriate situations.