24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2017 Porsche Boxster S equipped with the 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder and 7-speed PDK transmission, it’s a reasonable compromise between performance and efficiency. This isn’t a car purchased for hypermiling; it’s a mid-engine sports car engineered for driving pleasure, and its fuel consumption reflects that priority. Buyers of the Boxster S likely prioritize driving experience above all else and are less concerned with squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. They also understand that exhilarating performance often comes with a fuel consumption penalty.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Boxster S at 21 MPG in the city, a figure that will likely fluctuate considerably based on driving style. Short trips and heavy acceleration will quickly bring this number down, while a more relaxed approach can yield results closer to the stated estimate. On the highway, the Boxster S performs better, achieving a respectable 28 MPG.

This figure is attainable during steady-state cruising, making longer road trips surprisingly feasible, even enjoyable, in this performance-focused roadster. The PDK transmission’s ability to quickly shift to higher gears certainly aids in achieving these highway numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Porsche Boxster S at $2,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which is required for optimal performance in this engine. It’s important to remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the number of miles you drive each year. Spirited driving and more miles than the 15,000 mile average will likely push costs beyond this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Boxster S owners have reported figures close to the EPA estimates, particularly when driving conservatively. However, the temptation to exploit the turbocharged engine’s potential often results in lower fuel economy. Expect to see numbers in the high teens or low 20s during aggressive driving, especially on winding back roads where the Boxster S excels.

The official numbers are a good guide, but this is a car designed to be driven enthusiastically, which is something owners should factor into their fuel budget expectations.

How it compares

Compared to other sports cars in its class, the 2017 Boxster S’s fuel economy is competitive. For example, the BMW Z4 M40i, with its inline-six engine, achieved around 25 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, a larger and more powerful sports car, gets around 19 MPG combined with its V8. all Porsche fuel economy data show where the Boxster falls within the entire model range. The Porsche 911 Carrera, with its rear-engine layout and six-cylinder engine, achieves similar fuel economy figures around 23 MPG combined.

This comparison is important because a buyer might cross-shop these vehicles; understanding the slightly better fuel economy of the Boxster S might be a deciding factor if fuel costs are a significant consideration, even though performance and experience are the driving requirements.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The biggest factor influencing fuel consumption in the Boxster S is driving style. Smooth acceleration and avoiding unnecessary bursts of speed can significantly improve fuel economy. Use the PDK transmission’s automatic mode in everyday driving to ensure the engine stays in its most efficient range, reserving manual shifting for more spirited occasions. Driving like you’re trying to conserve fuel all the time misses the point of this vehicle.

Proper tire inflation is critical for performance and fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel consumption. Plus, the Boxster’s handling will be more predictable when the tires are properly inflated.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the car. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. A clear-out of unnecessary items in the trunk and passenger compartment will positively impact fuel economy. This is particularly true if you regularly carry heavy items, as the Boxster S with the 2.5 engine does its best work with the weight kept low.

Avoid idling for extended periods. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engine technology allows for quick and easy restarts, and idling wastes fuel needlessly. Every bit helps, even in a performance vehicle.

Consider using the car’s available driving modes. The Boxster S typically has a “Normal” or “Eco” mode that optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel efficiency. While these modes may slightly reduce performance, they can help improve fuel economy during everyday driving. Just be aware that you might lose some of the immediacy and responsiveness that make the Boxster S so enjoyable given that the BOXSTER MPG across all years tends to be similar.