17 MPG combined might induce panic in the average car buyer, but those considering a 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS 3.8L 6-cyl aren’t average. They’re buying a thinly disguised race car, a street-legal weapon built for shattering lap times. Fuel economy is a secondary consideration.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GT2 RS achieves 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. Those numbers aren’t going to win any awards, but they shouldn’t be surprising considering the vehicle’s mission. This isn’t a car designed for stop-and-go traffic. It’s a car designed to devour apexes and slingshot out of corners. The turbocharged 3.8-liter flat-six unleashes 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, all channeled through a lightning-quick, seven-speed automatic (AM-S7) transmission. That kind of performance demands fuel. A heavy foot will certainly yield worse numbers, while disciplined highway cruising *might* coax slightly better mileage, but don’t expect Prius-like efficiency. Explore 911 MPG across all years to compare different generations.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 for the 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for the type of fuel the vehicle requires. This is a significant expense, undoubtedly higher than the average car owner faces, but one that GT2 RS owners likely factor into the overall cost of ownership. This expense reflects the premium fuel required by the high-performance engine and the inherently fuel-thirsty nature of a car engineered for extreme performance.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving style and conditions. Owners who primarily drive their GT2 RS on the track, or engage in spirited weekend drives, should expect figures closer to the city rating, or even lower. Those who use it sparingly for longer highway journeys might see numbers closer to the 21 MPG highway estimate. Ultimately, extracting even the EPA-estimated MPG figure from this car requires restraint, a quality not often associated with those behind the wheel of a GT2 RS.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars, the GT2 RS’s fuel economy is predictably poor. The Ferrari 488 Pista, another track-focused weapon, achieves an EPA-estimated 18 MPG combined. The Lamborghini Huracan Performante, with its naturally aspirated V10, manages only 15 MPG combined. Even the “pedestrian” Porsche 911 Turbo S gets a significantly better 20 MPG combined, highlighting the GT2 RS’s focus on performance over efficiency. Buyers considering the GT2 RS aren’t typically cross-shopping for fuel-sipping alternatives; they’re prioritizing ultimate performance above all else. Explore all Porsche fuel economy data to understand the brand’s range of efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for GT2 RS owners, there are a few strategies to minimize consumption.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The GT2 RS’s massive power output is intoxicating, but every hard launch and sudden stop wastes fuel. Smooth, controlled driving will help improve efficiency, however slightly.

Ensure proper tire inflation and vehicle maintenance. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements, ensures the engine operates at peak efficiency.

Limit track use to dedicated track days. While the GT2 RS is built for the track, sustained high-speed driving dramatically increases fuel consumption. Save the track sessions for designated events and use more moderate driving on public roads.

Consider using a lighter weight oil if you aren’t constantly tracking the car. While the factory fill provides maximum protection under extreme conditions, a slightly thinner oil can reduce internal friction and improve fuel efficiency in everyday driving. Consult with a Porsche specialist for recommendations.