A combined fuel economy of 21 MPG from the 2019 Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet isn’t going to win any awards. But for the select few who can afford this open-top rocket ship, it’s likely a consideration far down the list, somewhere between the thread count of the leather and the available colors of the deviated stitching. This car is engineered for breathtaking performance, and its fuel economy reflects that priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet at 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure is arguably the more relevant number for many owners. While this Porsche is certainly capable of thrilling blasts down open roads, its compact size and startling acceleration make it surprisingly adept at conquering urban landscapes. Expect the stop-and-go traffic to drag down your overall fuel economy as the twin-turbo six gulps fuel to deliver its prodigious power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is required), and local fuel prices, which can fluctuate significantly. It’s still a useful point of comparison when considering other high-performance vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized baseline, expect real-world fuel economy to vary. Drive the Turbo S Cabriolet aggressively, with frequent use of the Sport and Sport Plus modes, and you’ll likely see numbers below the EPA estimates. Cruise gently on the highway, and you might approach, or even slightly exceed, 24 MPG. But let’s be honest: few 911 Turbo S Cabriolet owners are buying this car to hypermile. They want the speed, the sound, and the experience, and that comes at a fuel cost.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars, the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet’s fuel economy is roughly in line with expectations. The Audi R8 V10 Spyder, another similarly powerful open-top competitor, achieves an EPA-estimated 16 MPG combined. A Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster, also in the ballpark on price, manages 17 MPG combined. Even the lower-powered Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet only achieves around 21 MPG combined. Buyers considering a 911 Turbo S are less concerned about saving a few dollars at the pump, and more focused on the unmatchable blend of performance and refinement Porsche delivers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While outright fuel efficiency might not be important, small adjustments in driving habits can make a difference. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, particularly in urban environments. A smooth, consistent driving style will minimize fuel consumption.

Pay attention to the tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy and extending tire life. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tire pressure for your 911 Turbo S Cabriolet.

The 7-speed PDK automatic transmission is remarkably efficient when left to its own devices. In normal driving conditions, allow the transmission to shift automatically, selecting the most fuel-efficient gear for the situation. Resist the urge to constantly downshift for maximum acceleration unless you truly need it.

Consider using the available driving modes. Normal mode prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance, softening throttle response and optimizing shift points. While it might slightly lessen the driving experience, it can help improve fuel economy during less spirited drives. But if you are interested in 911 MPG across all years, this is a consideration.

Keep the car properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine is running optimally. A well-maintained engine will always be more efficient than one that’s neglected. For more information on all Porsche fuel economy data, consult the official resources.