2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Fuel Economy: What to Expect

24 MPG combined won’t win any awards for fuel efficiency, but for high-performance, open-top sports cars like the 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S, it’s a number many owners accept. This isn’t a car bought for its less gas; it’s purchased for its iconic shape, driving engagement, all-weather capability, and the unique experience of open-air motoring combined with Porsche performance. Buyers prioritize the thrill of the turbocharged flat-six and the security of all-wheel drive more than chasing every last mile per gallon.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S equipped with the 3.0L turbocharged flat-six and seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) transmission are 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The highway number is respectable for a car of this performance, and the city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to exploit the engine’s power. Of course, individual driving styles will heavily influence these figures. A more relaxed approach, avoiding aggressive acceleration, can nudge those numbers upward, especially on longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which is the recommended fuel grade for the Targa 4S. Owners can expect to spend around this amount, assuming their driving habits and fuel prices align with the EPA’s assumptions. Those who drive more aggressively or live in areas with higher fuel prices will likely see that figure increase.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Many 911 Targa 4S owners report figures slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in combined driving. This is largely due to the spirited driving style that the car encourages. Expect to see combined figures closer to the low 20s if you regularly exploit the engine’s performance. However, on longer highway trips, achieving or even slightly exceeding the EPA’s 27 MPG is entirely possible with careful driving.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4S holds its own in terms of fuel economy. A car like the Jaguar F-Type R Convertible (around 19 MPG combined) drinks considerably more fuel. Even the Audi R8 Spyder, with its V10 engine, typically sees lower MPG figures. A BMW M4 Convertible is closer, but generally a little worse. For perspective, you can view all Porsche fuel economy data on this site. The reality is buyers in this segment are often less concerned with outright fuel efficiency than with overall performance and driving experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Practice smooth acceleration. The Targa 4S delivers plenty of power throughout the rev range, so aggressive launches aren’t always necessary. Avoiding hard acceleration from a stop and maintaining a steady throttle position can significantly improve fuel economy in city driving.

Use the car’s driving modes. The Porsche 911 Targa 4S offers different driving modes, and selecting “Normal” mode softens throttle response, which means less fuel consumption. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes are best kept for spirited driving when fuel economy is less of a concern.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and ensure they are at the recommended levels, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb. You can also check the 911 MPG across all years for comparison.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying around extra weight in the car increases fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to reduce the load on the engine.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding rush hour traffic and selecting routes with fewer stops and starts can help improve fuel economy, especially in urban environments. Using navigation systems to find the most efficient routes can also be beneficial.