19 MPG combined. That’s the EPA’s figure for the 2020 Porsche Macan GTS with its 2.9L twin-turbo V6, and it immediately tells you this isn’t a vehicle prioritizing thriftiness. This isn’t a Prius in a party dress; it’s a precision driving instrument disguised as a practical SUV. It’s a compromise, performance is the priority, and fuel efficiency is a secondary, almost grudgingly accepted, consequence.

City and highway performance

The EPA’s city rating for the Macan GTS is 17 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic, aggressive launches from stoplights (and let’s be honest, you will launch it), and the general urban grind will quickly confirm this figure. Conversely, the 22 MPG highway rating is more attainable, if you resist the urge to constantly dip into the strong power for easy passing. This split personality, a blend of responsiveness and relative highway composure, defines the Macan GTS experience. Most owners accept that getting maximum mileage requires restraint that goes against the vehicle’s character.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2020 Porsche Macan GTS. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with roughly 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price. It’s a useful benchmark, but your actual costs will vary. If you live in a city with particularly high fuel costs and drive aggressively, you should prepare to spend significantly more. Conversely, if you primarily do highway driving in a state with lower gas prices, that $3,050 figure could be a high estimate. The Macan GTS demands premium fuel, further inflating the cost. Considering all Porsche fuel economy data, the GTS variant sits at the higher end of the consumption spectrum.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Macan GTS drivers are typically enthusiasts who value performance. They likely prioritize the thrill of the acceleration and the experience of driving a Porsche over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. Expect to see numbers closer to the EPA’s lower range, especially with frequent use of Sport or Sport Plus modes. The Macan GTS’s appetite for fuel grows quickly with your right foot’s enthusiasm. If you drive it like a sports car, it will drink fuel like a sports car.

How it compares

The Macan GTS exists in a competitive segment of performance-oriented compact SUVs. The BMW X3 M40i, for example, gets 23 MPG combined with comparable power, a real advantage for those spending less on gas. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 achieves a similar combined figure, around 21 MPG. Even within the Porsche family, the base Macan manages a significantly better 21 MPG combined rating. However, the GTS customer isn’t cross-shopping based solely on fuel economy. They are paying for a specific level of performance and handling, and are willing to sacrifice some efficiency to get it. They examine MACAN MPG across all years and understand where the GTS sits within the range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smoother driving style. Sudden acceleration and hard braking are fuel economy killers, especially in a turbocharged engine. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace when possible. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the car’s performance, but be mindful of how your driving inputs affect fuel consumption.

Use the available driving modes strategically. The Macan GTS offers various modes, including a “Normal” mode designed for efficiency. While it tempers the car’s responsiveness, it can noticeably improve fuel economy during routine commutes. Save the Sport and Sport Plus modes for spirited drives when efficiency isn’t a primary concern.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels, which can be found on the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. This is particularly relevant in urban environments with frequent traffic stops.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance all help fuel economy. Address any engine issues or warning lights promptly.