24 MPG combined might seem unremarkable, but it’s respectable for the 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera S. This isn’t a car bought for maximizing every last drop of fuel; it’s a performance icon, a statement, and a visceral driving experience that returns decent mileage when not being driven flat-out.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 911 Carrera S equipped with the 7-speed PDK automatic transmission are 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of urban driving, where the 3.0L twin-turbocharged flat-six is constantly modulating power. The highway number suggests Porsche’s engineers have managed to strike a balance between performance and efficiency in cruising situations. The turbos aren’t constantly spooled, and the meticulously engineered aerodynamics help cut through the air with minimal resistance. However, remembering that the allure of the 911 often leads to a heavier foot, quickly diminishing those highway MPG numbers.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche 911 Carrera S is $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Understand that this number is a baseline and your actual fuel costs will vary significantly based on your driving habits, location, and the fluctuating price of premium gasoline required by this high-performance engine. Some owners may stick close to this average, enjoying the occasional spirited drive, but others will exceed it as they fully exploit the 911’s capabilities.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy in a 2019 911 Carrera S is heavily dependent on driving style. Those who frequently indulge in the Sport or Sport Plus modes, exploring the upper reaches of the rev range, should expect fuel economy to drop considerably. Drivers who primarily use the car for commuting and adhere to speed limits can likely achieve close to the EPA estimates, maybe even exceeding the highway figure slightly. The onboard trip computer is your friend; use it to monitor your fuel consumption and adjust your driving accordingly if you want to save money.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars, the 2019 911 Carrera S fares reasonably well. For example, the automatic-equipped Chevrolet Corvette Stingray manages around 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The BMW M4, another performance benchmark, achieves around 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. All Porsche fuel economy data reveals how the 911 has consistently balanced performance with efficiency over the decades. Potential owners looking at the 911 MPG across all years versus these alternatives will see that the Porsche’s superior technology and engineering translates to respectable fuel efficiency for this class of vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Normal driving mode whenever possible. The 2019 911 Carrera S offers multiple driving modes that dramatically affect fuel consumption. Sport and Sport Plus modes sharpen throttle response and hold gears longer, but at the expense of efficiency. Selecting the Normal mode allows the transmission to upshift sooner, keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire pressure, as indicated on the doorjamb sticker, not only ensures optimal handling and braking performance but also minimizes rolling resistance, which impacts fuel economy. Regularly check and adjust tire pressures, especially before long trips.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The twin-turbocharged engine responds readily to throttle inputs, but rapid acceleration burns fuel quickly. Similarly, hard braking wastes the kinetic energy that could have been converted into forward momentum. Practice smooth, progressive acceleration and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary braking.

Consider using the auto start/stop function. The auto start/stop system shuts off the engine when the car stops, saving fuel during idling. Some drivers find it intrusive, but it can contribute to noticeable fuel savings in city driving. It can be deactivated with the press of a button.