25 MPG combined isn’t the main reason someone buys the 2019 Porsche Boxster with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. People buy this car for its precise handling, quick throttle response, and open-top fun, not for achieving Prius-level fuel economy. If you’re thinking about a Boxster, you probably want the exciting driving experience that only a mid-engine Porsche roadster can provide and are okay with lower gas mileage.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Boxster 2.0L are 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. That highway number is important because Boxster owners enjoy fun drives on back roads and often use their cars for weekend trips. The ability to comfortably cruise on the open road while still getting nearly 30 MPG is reasonable for a performance car. The city MPG reflects stop-and-go driving, where the engine idles and accelerates more, which affects fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche Boxster 2.0L is $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This car, although driven for pleasure, often serves as a daily driver, which many Boxster owners agree with. Because this engine requires premium fuel for best performance, higher gas costs increase the annual fuel expense. Your individual fuel costs will change depending on your driving habits and gas prices in your area.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world fuel economy depends on several things. Aggressive driving, frequent use of the Boxster’s Sport or Sport Plus modes, and skipping regular maintenance will reduce fuel efficiency. However, a smooth driving style, using cruise control on the highway, and following Porsche’s recommended service schedule can help you get close to, or even slightly exceed, the EPA estimates. Many owners find the highway MPG achievable on longer trips, especially when avoiding heavy traffic.

How it compares

The 2019 Porsche Boxster 2.0L has reasonable fuel economy compared to other performance convertibles. A BMW Z4 sDrive30i, with its 2.0L turbo four-cylinder, gets slightly better fuel economy at 28 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz SLC300, another competitor, gets around 26 MPG combined. Choosing between these vehicles is more about driving feel and brand than saving money on gas. Buyers who want to save on gas might consider something different. The Mazda MX-5 Miata achieves around 30 MPG combined but provides a different driving experience, focusing on lightness and driver engagement more than overall power. For more information on the Boxster, take a look at BOXSTER MPG across all years. You can also view all Porsche fuel economy data.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

It’s tempting to push the throttle in a Porsche Boxster, but resist that urge to improve your fuel economy. Smooth acceleration is important. Gentle inputs will keep the turbocharger from starting unnecessarily, which reduces fuel consumption during city driving.

Check your tire pressures regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance which makes the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Avoid short trips when you can. The engine is least efficient when cold, so combining several errands into one long trip reduces the amount of time the engine spends in that state. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK) is designed for efficiency, so let it work by avoiding unnecessary manual shifting.

Consider using a fuel additive to clean fuel injectors and improve combustion. Porsche engines are precision machines, and keeping the fuel system clean can help maintain good fuel economy and performance. Choose a well-known brand made for high-performance engines.