19 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder any green awards, but that’s hardly the point. This is a mid-engine, naturally aspirated sports car designed to deliver a visceral driving experience above all else. Fuel efficiency is simply not a primary concern for the enthusiast drawn to its razor-sharp handling and evocative flat-six howl.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder at 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the car’s performance in different environments. In urban environments, the Spyder’s relatively short gearing and eagerness to rev translate into more frequent gear changes and increased fuel consumption. On the open road, its slippery aerodynamics and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably in higher gears allows for somewhat better efficiency, although restraint is key. The temptation to fully exploit the 4.0-liter’s power will inevitably impact your highway mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder at $3,050. 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 because the Spyder demands premium fuel, fluctuations in gas prices will directly affect your annual expenditure. Someone who drives significantly less than 15,000 miles annually, or who lives in an area with lower fuel costs, could see a lower annual expense. However, aggressive driving will undoubtedly negate any potential savings.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy varies based on driving style, traffic conditions, and even weather. Spyder owners who primarily use the car for weekend canyon drives or track days will likely see fuel consumption below the official estimates. Conversely, those who commute in heavy traffic might experience figures closer to, or even lower than, the city MPG rating. The 718’s manual transmission encourages driver engagement, but requires conscientious gear selection to optimize fuel economy. A heavy foot will quickly deplete the fuel tank.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars, the 718 Spyder’s fuel economy is within a certain range. The BMW M2 Competition, while no longer in production for the 2021 model year, achieves around 20 MPG combined with its twin-turbocharged inline-six. The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, equipped with its naturally aspirated V8, manages a more respectable 19 MPG combined, though some could see higher. Even within Porsche’s own lineup, other models present different economy numbers; see all Porsche fuel economy data to compare.

For the Spyder buyer, however, these figures are often secondary to the raw driving experience. They prioritize the sound, feel, and engagement of a naturally aspirated engine over outright fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 718 Spyder isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are ways to minimize fuel consumption without sacrificing too much of the driving pleasure. Smooth acceleration and avoiding unnecessary hard braking can improve efficiency. The 4.0-liter engine delivers ample torque even at low RPMs, so there’s no need to constantly rev it to the redline.

Proper tire inflation is important for both handling and fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency and negatively impacts handling.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight. The Spyder is a lightweight sports car, and extra cargo only burdens the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel consumption. However, be mindful of traffic conditions and avoid using cruise control in congested areas.

Stay on top of routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections ensure the engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and delivers optimal performance. For more information on this model, see 718 MPG across all years.