17 MPG combined won’t impress anyone prioritizing lower fuel costs, and that’s fine. The 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe 4.0L 8-cyl wasn’t built for them. This is a focused, high-performance machine that prioritizes visceral thrills over saving fuel. Its buyers accept fuel consumption as the price for rapid acceleration, dynamic handling, and an unmistakable exhaust. For them, the Cayenne GTS Coupe is about the driving experience, an experience that demands a potent engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe achieves 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures realistically reflect the vehicle’s nature. The city MPG acknowledges stop-and-go driving that exposes the vehicle’s weight and the need to accelerate from a standstill. The highway figure, although better, still reflects the aerodynamic inefficiencies inherent in an SUV coupe design and the engine’s power. These are estimates, and a lighter foot may yield slightly better numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe is $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. For those considering this vehicle, it’s a reminder that performance has a cost. Many GTS Coupe owners likely drive fewer miles than the EPA average, especially given its likely use as a secondary or weekend vehicle, but are also likely to drive more aggressively, which will reduce any potential fuel savings. It’s a cost accepted by the target buyer.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a baseline, real-world MPG for the 2021 Cayenne GTS Coupe is driver-dependent. Someone who frequently exploits the engine’s capabilities will see lower figures, potentially dipping into the single digits during track days or extended periods of aggressive driving. Someone who consciously adopts a restrained driving style, particularly on long highway stretches, might approach the EPA estimate. Few Cayenne GTS Coupe owners buy the car to save gas. They buy it to enjoy its ferocious performance, impacting fuel consumption. Those interested in seeing similar figures across the range can view CAYENNE MPG across all years.

How it compares

The Cayenne GTS Coupe’s fuel efficiency becomes clearer when compared to its rivals. The BMW X6 M50i, with its twin-turbo V8, manages around 16 MPG combined, landing it within the same range. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, another high-performance SUV coupe, also hovers around 16 MPG combined. Even the slightly more restrained Audi SQ8 delivers around 18 MPG combined. These comparisons reveal a trend: high-powered SUV coupes are not designed for efficiency. Enthusiasts aren’t cross-shopping based solely on fuel economy. They’re comparing performance figures, handling, and brand appeal, factors where the Cayenne GTS Coupe holds its own. For those curious about other brands, examine all Porsche fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the priority, there are driver-influenced measures to improve the MPG. Avoid unnecessary idling. The 4.0L twin-turbo V8 burns fuel quickly when stationary. Shutting off the engine during stops, even for a minute or two, can improve your MPG.

Gentle acceleration is important. The Cayenne GTS Coupe’s engine is eager to unleash its power, but resisting the urge to constantly engage in hard acceleration will reduce fuel consumption. Smooth and gradual increases in speed are more efficient than abrupt bursts of power.

Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long highway drives helps minimize fluctuations in fuel consumption. Cruise control can help you avoid inadvertently accelerating or decelerating, which wastes fuel.

Finally, consider the drive mode you select. The “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes enhance performance, and they also increase fuel consumption by altering the engine and transmission mapping. Opting for the standard “Comfort” mode during less demanding driving can help conserve fuel.