The 2019 Porsche Boxster S, equipped with a 2.5L 4-cyl engine, gets 24 MPG combined. If you buy this car, don’t expect to minimize your carbon footprint or stretching every gallon to its absolute limit. Instead, this car delivers explosive acceleration, surgically precise handling, and the wind in your hair, all powered by a snarling, turbocharged flat-four engine nestled just behind your head. You buy a Boxster S because you want to chase apexes, not win a hypermiling competition.

City and highway performance

The 2019 Boxster S gets 21 MPG in the city. Stop-and-go traffic isn’t its happiest environment, but the responsive 2.5L engine and the quick-shifting 7-speed automatic (AM-S7) transmission still make urban driving engaging. On the open road, expect 28 MPG. This is where the Boxster S truly shines, effortlessly eating up miles while delivering ample power for overtaking. The well-calibrated transmission intelligently finds the right gear for maximum efficiency without sacrificing immediate responsiveness when you need it.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche Boxster S at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required, so fluctuations in premium fuel costs will directly impact your annual spending. Of course, spirited driving will significantly increase your fuel consumption, and therefore, your annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

Your actual fuel economy will vary, even though the EPA provides a standardized estimate. Several factors influence MPG, including driving style, traffic conditions, tire pressure, and even the use of accessories like air conditioning. Expect considerably less than the official figures with a heavy foot and a penchant for testing the engine’s limits. Conversely, adopting smoother acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can push the numbers slightly higher. Consider the rated MPG a baseline; your personal results will depend on how you drive the car.

How it compares

The Boxster S occupies a unique niche compared to its rivals. The BMW Z4 M40i, with its inline-six engine, delivers a similar driving experience but comes in around 25 MPG combined. Audi’s TT RS offers approximately 22 MPG combined with its potent five-cylinder, offering another performance-oriented option. And while the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray offers monstrous V8 power, its fuel consumption is much higher, at around 19 MPG combined. The Boxster S finds a sweet spot: potent performance without the excessive fuel consumption of larger-engined alternatives. Those trading up from a Mazda Miata, known for its impressive fuel economy, such as 29 MPG Combined, will notice a difference; the Porsche’s performance advantage comes with a commensurate fuel cost. Porsche offers all Porsche fuel economy data for comparison across its entire line. You can also find BOXSTER MPG across all years to evaluate different model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

There are still ways to optimize your MPG, while fuel economy might not be your primary concern with a Boxster S. Resist the urge to constantly exploit the engine’s full potential. Smooth, progressive acceleration will always yield better fuel economy than frequent bursts of power. The car’s natural balance allows you to use cruise control when appropriate, helping the automatic transmission select the optimal gear and maintain a consistent speed.

Proper maintenance is critical. Regularly check and maintain correct tire pressures, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including oil changes and spark plug replacements. Keeping your engine running optimally ensures it burns fuel as cleanly and efficiently as possible.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The lighter the car, the less energy it takes to move it. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or passenger compartment. Every pound counts, especially on a performance car designed for optimal balance and agility.

The driving mode you select influences fuel consumption. “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes sharpen throttle response and hold gears longer, but they also decrease fuel efficiency. Use “Normal” mode for everyday driving to allow the transmission to shift earlier and keep the engine at lower RPMs, which helps improve fuel economy.