20 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but that’s what you get with the 2020 Porsche Macan S. This isn’t a vehicle you buy to save on gas. It’s a performance-oriented compact SUV that prioritizes driving enjoyment. Macan S buyers want a practical vehicle with Porsche DNA, knowing that the exhilarating power from the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 costs money at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for the 2020 Porsche Macan S. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving, which means the engine spends more time at lower speeds and idling. The highway number, while still modest, benefits from more consistent speeds and less acceleration. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (PDK in Porsche-speak) is programmed for rapid shifts in Sport mode and optimized efficiency in normal driving, but even its clever engineering can’t fully mitigate what it takes for a powerful six-cylinder to move a vehicle weighing over 4,300 pounds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2020 Porsche Macan S. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which this vehicle requires. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving, local fuel prices, and the amount of time you spend in city versus highway environments. If you push the Macan S hard, that $2,900 figure will climb quickly. Drive it with restraint, and you might save a few dollars, but few Macan S owners will prioritize saving on fuel.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Macan S owners often report numbers within a 1-2 MPG range of the EPA estimates, but those who regularly tap into the engine’s capabilities, especially in urban environments, may see figures closer to 16-17 MPG. Drivers who primarily log highway miles and drive gently can sometimes achieve 24-25 MPG. Consider this information and also know your all Porsche fuel economy data as that can help. Consider this before searching for MACAN MPG across all years.

How it compares

Several competitors exist in the premium compact SUV segment, and their fuel economy figures offer a useful comparison. The BMW X3 M40i, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves a similar 21 MPG combined. The Audi SQ5, sharing a platform and engine configuration with the Macan S, also lands around 21 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, with its AMG-tuned V6, delivers approximately 19 MPG combined, and the Genesis GV70 3.5T comes close with an EPA-estimated 19MPG combined. These figures show that the Macan S’s fuel consumption aligns with its direct rivals. The slightly better fuel economy of some four-cylinder variants (like the non-S Macan, rated at 21 MPG combined) comes with a significant sacrifice in performance, a tradeoff unacceptable to typical Macan S buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Macan S begs to be driven hard, but consistent, gentle inputs will significantly improve fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Engage the “Normal” driving mode. The Macan’s various driving modes alter throttle response, shift points, and suspension settings. Selecting “Normal” prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance, resulting in smoother acceleration and earlier upshifts.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the door jamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Modern engines restart efficiently. Avoid prolonged idling, especially in cold weather. If you anticipate a wait of more than 30 seconds, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine.